7 Practical Ways to Make Your AC Last Longer in Englewood, FL
The average service life of an air conditioner in Englewood, FL is usually around 12 to 15 years or possibly longer if the equipment is well-maintained. However, many homeowners inadvertently shave years off the life of their system without realizing it. Consider these seven practical ways to extend the lifespan of your AC equipment so that you can get the most out of your investment.
1. Invest in Proper Installation
Ensure the installation is correct to get the most from your AC’s service life. Improper AC installation causes excessive strain, especially on the compressor, coils and circulating fan.
The first step to properly installing your system is contracting a professional to perform the work. Trying to do it yourself to save a few dollars increases the risk of problems, plus it’ll likely void your warranty.
Proper installation also means selecting the right size unit for your home. Choosing an undersized or oversized system will cut into your system’s service life. An HVAC technician considers a variety of factors beyond mere home size to determine your cooling needs.
2. Change Your Air Filter Regularly
Your air conditioner depends on its ability to circulate air through the system and your home. A dirty air filter restricts this airflow.
Extend your AC’s service life by checking and changing your air filter regularly. Plan to check it monthly so that you can spot a dirty filter that needs changing. In most homes, the standard filters require changing or cleaning every 30 to 90 days.
3. Program Your Thermostat
Unless you work from home, there’s likely no one in the house the vast majority of the time your AC runs. Not only that, but it’s usually empty during the warmest time of day when your AC works the hardest. This causes unneeded wear and tear on your system and increases your energy costs.
Digital and smart thermostats allow you to program cooling schedules to help minimize energy waste. They allow you to increase the temperature a few degrees while you’re at work and start cooling it again before you arrive home. According to the Department of Energy, this can save as much as 10% of your annual cooling expenses.
4. Keep Your Registers Open and Clear
Your AC will run longer with more frequent cooling cycles when it can’t effectively circulate air around your home. This happens when you close or block your supply vents.
Keep them all open and provide at least a 6-inch clearance above and around each vent. If you can manage it, a 12-inch clearance will provide better circulation.
5. Tend to Your Landscaping
You may not realize how much your landscaping can affect your air conditioner or heat pump. Specifically, you should control how close your landscaping comes to your outside condenser. This unit needs at least 2 feet above and around it to remain clear to promote proper air circulation.
6. Keep On Top of AC Maintenance
The goal of every maintenance visit is to help your AC run more efficiently. To achieve this, the HVAC technician starts by cleaning your unit, including your circulating fan, evaporator, and condensing coils. Next, they tighten and tune your system, including all of the mounting hardware and electrical connections.
Finally, they’ll perform extensive tests on your system. The goal is to make sure that it is running properly and identify any worn or damaged components. Under-performing parts can increase wear and tear on other components while also contributing to a rise energy consumption.
7. Rest Your System
On milder days in Englewood, try turning off your AC and using overhead fans instead. Open the windows and let the gulf breezes help cool the home. By giving your AC a break, you’ll extend its life span.
We install and repair HVAC systems and thermostats to keep your Florida home comfortable. Let us help you extend your air conditioner’s life by giving it all the attention it needs. Call to schedule your annual AC maintenance with the NATE-certified technicians at Conditioned Air today.