by Cooper Climate Control
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Summer is the season of relaxation and rest, but the scorching summer sun can mean working overtime for your air conditioning unit. In extreme heat, your unit has to work that much harder to keep your home comfortable. It’s important to take care of your AC unit so you can avoid breakdowns in the hottest months of the year. Luckily, there are some smart steps to avoid breakdowns and ensure that your home stays cool all summer long, even in the Phoenix heat.
Check Air Filters Monthly
Your air filter is an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to keeping your home clean. Dust and dirt trapped in an old filter can clog up your unit and cause breakdowns. Check your air filter regularly to keep your system running at maximum efficiency. Changing the filters is a low-cost way to keep your AC unit running without spending a bundle.
Clean Outside Air Conditioning Unit
The outside of your air conditioning system is exposed to the elements, which makes it very important to keep the unit itself as clean as possible. Dirt buildup, plants growing the wrong way, or anything leaning against your AC unit can make the unit work harder to produce the same amount of energy. This is also a safety hazard! If you notice dirt or debris around your unit clean it as quickly as possible.
Don’t Close Air Vents
Your air conditioning unit’s output should be “balanced” across your home. Air going into the home should be equal to air exiting the home. Shutting vents in rooms you spend less time in might seem like a good way to save energy, but in reality this disrupts the balance of your system and can result in higher energy bills.
Get Professional Preventative Maintenance
Don’t skip out on getting a checkup for your system. Preventative maintenance is the number one way to help keep your unit in the best shape possible. The essential tasks that are performed in a tune-up greatly reduce the risk of future disruptions. Schedule tune-ups twice a year: once in the spring to prepare for summer heat and once in the fall to prepare for the winter cold.
Use Reasonable Thermostat Settings
Consider lowering or raising the temperature to prevent your air conditioner from overworking itself. SRP recommends setting the thermostat between 78 and 80 degrees in the summer. In high temperatures, never turn your air conditioner off when you leave because the system will have to work extremely hard to cool your house down once you have turned it back on.
Replace Old Systems
Older systems are more likely to break down in the hot summer months. Be proactive about upgrading your system and always ask about energy efficient units to help save energy and money. This will help keep you cool all summer long – with some extra cash in your pocket!
How do you prevent air conditioning breakdowns during hot Phoenix summers? Leave your comments with any tricks you might have to contribute to the longevity of your unit. If you are looking to schedule preventative maintenance or upgrade your system, call us today to find out more about installation. We carry the best AC brands in Phoenix and we’d love to help you stay cool.