Having a central air conditioner for your house as opposed to just a couple window-based air conditioners can be a nice luxury to have when the mercury in the thermometer begins to climb. But if you want your central air system to keep you and your family cool all summer long, you'll want to keep an eye on some key components. Here are some tips and tricks to help ensure that your central air conditioning system makes it to Labor Day with no problems.
Keep the Air and the System Clean
Just like your car, your central air system also has an air filter. And also just like your car, you need to change it out on a regular basis in order to get the best results. You should stick with your manufacturer's suggestion as to how often to change this key part of your central air system, but in general, you should make a switch every three to six months. A HEPA filter should be changed more frequently because it is much more efficient at catching dirt and will clog up faster. Changing your air conditioner's filter doesn't just improve the air you are breathing, it also will help the system itself from developing any issues related to dust or debris.
Keep an Eye on the Condenser
Your AC system's condenser is what makes the entire system run. This device is almost always installed outside your home. It's important to keep the area clear of leaves, weeds or any other things that could get in the way and cause a problem. The condenser's coils should be cleaned and flushed by a professional before the start of each summer. When the weather turns cooler, don't forget to cover the condenser up to protect it from the elements.
Use a Thermostat with a Timer
Most central air systems today come with a computerized thermometer that can be used to set different temperatures at different times of day. Make use of this feature so that your central air is not working hard to keep the house cool when no one is home. For example, you could set the thermometer a few degrees higher while you are away at work, but have it kick in before you arrive at the end of the work day. If your system does not have an automated feature like this, talk with an air conditioning repair service to see if someone can come out and get a new thermostat installed.
Central air conditioning systems can sometimes be out of sight, out of mind for many homeowners, but it's important to keep an eye on key parts like the filter and the condenser if you want to ensure your system makes it through the summer with no problems. If you encounter an issue, contact a professional like Christian Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. for assistance before it gets worse.
