How To Prevent Central AC Breakdowns

A good central AC will typically work for about twelve years before needing to be replaced, but the high cost of buying a replacement unit means you should do everything you can to keep your existing central AC running for as long as possible.

First, take the time out right now (before it gets really hot) to test your ac unit and make sure it’s functioning correctly. If you do find a problem you might want to try some easy air conditioner troubleshooting tips if your AC will not turn on. Here are are some things you can do to keep your central air conditioner unit in good working order:

Make Sure Your AC Unit is Clean: The big fan housing part of your AC unit outside your house is called the condenser and it’s what actually cools a Freon liquid in the coils of your air conditioner. You need to keep the condenser clear and make sure there is nothing blocking the airflow. Things like leaves, bushes and even kids toys can all damage an air conditioner unit if left against the condenser. Make sure you aren’t throwing anything against it when you cut your grass.

Cool Off Your AC: Putting your air conditioner unit in the shade will reduce how hard it has to work and some estimates place the energy savings at nearly 10%! A US Department of Energy report suggests putting trees or some sort of shade structure around your central AC unit so that it doesn’t have to work as hard to stay cool. Newer and commercial air conditioner units actually have sensors in them that can adjust to higher temperatures.

Test your AC Often: Giving your AC a regular “check up” will really help keep it running. First, you’ll need to change your home air filter every three to six months. These filters can get blocked with air particles and limit the amount of cool air you’re getting in your home. A very blocked filter can actually destroy an AC unit and require it to be replaced.

Normal air conditioner maintenance all year around will help you stay cool for longer and with less AC breakdowns on those days when the temperature reaches the triple digits! Use common sense and take a few minutes here and there to make sure your air conditioner is running well and you’re sure to have a cool and happy summer.

Want to learn more helpful about keeping your AC running? Check out more helpful central air conditioner maintenance methods to avoid an unexpected repair bill this summer.

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