When properly cared for, air conditioners tend to last between 15 and 20 years. When cared for improperly, they might not even make it to 10 years. And even if they do, they could be running inefficiently, costing you hundreds or maybe even thousands of dollars in the process.
In short, you have to get AC maintenance right. Unfortunately, many homeowners make errors with their AC maintenance routine. So, the question is: which errors should you look to avoid?
We’re going to discuss them below to help you properly maintain your residential AC system. Without further ado, here are 4 errors with AC maintenance to avoid for homeowners in Cape Coral, FL.
1. Not Keeping the Condenser Area Clear
The first error you can make is not keeping the condenser area clear. You need to do what you can to prevent sticks and other objects from falling into your AC condenser.
Leave at least 5 feet of clearance on each side of the condenser. In addition, trim hedges and tree branches so that they can’t fall into the condenser. Doing this will protect the condenser’s impeller, saving it from hundreds of dollars worth of damage.
2. Not Changing the Air Filter in a Timely Manner
ACs utilize air filters to keep dust and other debris from making their way into them. These filters become inundated with dust quite quickly and so need to be changed every 2 months or so. If you wait longer than this, your AC will begin to intake dust, therefore suffering wear and tear and efficiency issues.
So be sure to change that air filter on time. Never let it go for any longer than 3 months.
3. Failing to Clean the Ducts
Not only do you need to swap out your AC’s air filter every 2 months or so, but you also need to clean your air ducts. Dirty air ducts restrict the flow of air, resulting in a lack of energy efficiency, not to mention undue AC deterioration.
For best results, have your ducts cleaned professionally every 3 to 5 years.
4. Not Having Your AC Professionally Inspected
The last error we’re going to discuss is not having your AC professionally inspected. Professional inspections are important as they help you ensure that there isn’t anything wrong with your AC. They catch small problems before they become big ones and therefore save you money in the long run.
During an inspection, your AC technician will clean your AC condenser, clean the evaporator coils, and visually inspect the internal components of the AC. They’ll also make repairs as needed.
Professional AC technicians are well-versed in repairing AC units. They’ll ensure that any existing AC system damage is put to rest.
Be Sure to Avoid Errors With AC Maintenance
When you improperly maintain an air conditioner, you lose not only years of its lifespan but money as well. This is why it’s imperative to avoid errors with AC maintenance.
Need help with AC maintenance in Cape Coral, FL? If so, we here at Ellsworth’s Heating & Cooling are the ones to see.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!