5 Tips to Keep Your Central Air Running Efficiently

July 23, 2018

Total Mechanical Systems is a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer.

​Setting goals for the second half of  the year?

We have one to add to your list: Keep your AC in good shape.

It’s a worthy goal because when your air conditioner is working well, you have lower energy bills and higher comfort levels.

  1. Check your air filter regularly
  2. Mind your outdoor unit
  3. Get your ductwork sealed
  4. Don’t ignore needed repairs
  5. Schedule AC maintenance in the spring

Tip #1: Check your air filter regularly

Probably the easiest (and most important) thing you can do to keep your AC in good shape is to change your filters regularly.

Why is changing your air filter so important?

Changing your air filters regularly prevents dirt from building up and creating a barrier that restricts airflow to your AC. If your Central Air has reduced airflow it can cause major problems like…

  1. Less cool air coming from your vents: A dirty filter is basically a thick wall of dust that blocks air from entering your AC system. And less air into your AC system means less cold air that it can blow out into your home.
  1. Frozen evaporator coil: Limited airflow into your AC system causes the cold refrigerant to drop in temperature until your evaporator coils freeze, which also limits the amount of cold air that comes out of your vents.Frozen Evaporator Coil

 

So, if your air filter ever looks dirty like the picture below, it’s DEFINITELY time to change it. But don’t wait until it’s clogged to take action. In fact, our suggestion is to check your air filter every 1-2 months and change it out even if there’s only a thin layer of dirt on it

Dirty Central Air Filters

Tip #2: Mind your outdoor unit

You’ll want to keep your outdoor unit free of debris and uncovered to keep your AC running efficiently.

Here’s why: Your outdoor unit (also called the condenser) is responsible for taking all the heat from your home’s air and dumping it outside.

But if your outdoor unit is dirty or covered by plants or outdoor furniture, all that heat can’t escape as fast, which means your system will run longer to cool your home. And if your AC system runs longer, you’ll have higher energy bills.

Make sure you keep away debris from your outdoor unit. Even leaves or a thick layer of dirt,  can decrease the cooling power of your AC.

Tip #3: Get your ductwork sealed

Your home most likely has duct leakage, which means wasted money. That’s because leaky ductwork makes your AC work harder than it has to.

What you should do: Contact a professional to seal your ducts. Duct sealing involves…

  • Using mastic sealant or metal tape to cover holes and leaks
  • Adding insulation around the ducts
  • Refitting and sealing any poorly connected ducts

When your ducts are sealed and don’t have any leaks, it will make your AC more energy efficient and your home more comfortable.

Tip #4: Don’t ignore needed repairs

Though it’s tempting to ignore signs that your AC needs repair, not taking any action actually costs you more in the long run.

So if you smell something funny coming out of your vents, or hear strange sounds, don’t wait to call a professional to check out your system—even if you’re still getting cold air.

Even if the problem seems miniscule- don’t wait. Small problems that go unfixed could lead to bigger ones, which will cost you more $$ and could lead to an early breakdown. And the LAST thing you want in the middle of summer or during the humid days of August is to be completely without cool air!

Tip #5: Schedule AC maintenance at least once per year

Annual Central Air Maintenance at least once a year to keep you air conditioner in tip-top shape.

Think of it like changing your car’s oil. When you change your car’s oil regularly, your car gets better gas mileage and performs better. It’s the same with your AC. Maintenance increases your AC’s efficiency, which lowers your energy bills and prevents early breakdowns

We recommend you get an AC tune-up in the spring, right before cooling season comes into full swing.

We recommend that if you have a forced hot air and or a mini split system that offers heat as well to give you unit a tune up in the fall as well.

Visit our maintenance plan page to learn more about the tune-up

Need AC help from a Connecticut professional?

Just give us a call. We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have or help you schedule an appointment with one of our trusted techs.

Whether you need a duct repair or you need help choosing the right air filter, we’ll help you get your AC system working efficiently.