How To Protect My AC In Summer

As summer temperatures soar, air conditioning becomes a necessity. With the hot, humid weather, it’s important to ensure that your AC system is up and running correctly to keep your home comfortable. But, just like any other home appliance, your AC is prone to trouble, especially if it has not been well maintained.

Don’t wait until your system breaks down to address the issue. Instead, take a proactive approach to protect your AC against the summer heat. Here’s what you can do to ensure your AC runs efficiently throughout the summer months:

1. Schedule Regular Maintenance

The first step to protecting your AC is to schedule regular maintenance with a licensed professional. This will ensure that your AC is working optimally and any potential problems are addressed. During maintenance, a professional will inspect and clean the unit, replace any worn-out parts, and perform any necessary repairs to maintain your system’s efficiency and reliability.

2. Change the Air Filter

The air filter in your AC traps dirt, dust, and other particles, preventing them from circulating throughout your home. When the filter becomes clogged, it restricts airflow and reduces your system’s efficiency, which in turn makes it work harder to cool your home. A dirty filter expands your energy consumption and raises your energy bill. Change the filter every 30 days, or as recommended by the manufacturer, to keep your AC running smoothly.

3. Check Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit is as important as the indoor one– if not more– and it’s therefore crucial to keep it clean and free of obstructions. Check around the unit to make sure that no debris or plants have grown too close to it, which can obstruct airflow. The unit should be placed away from direct sunlight but in an open area, ideally without surrounding walls or other barriers that may affect its performance.

4. Use Ceiling Fans

Using your ceiling fans instead of turning down your AC can significantly reduce your energy bills. Keep your ceiling fans on all day to circulate the cool air around your home. Ceiling fans can cool the air temperature by about 4 degrees, which can help you set your AC at a higher temperature without sacrificing your comfort.

5. Seal Your Home

Air leaks in your home can cause your AC to work harder, resulting in higher power consumption and increased costs. Check around doors and windows for any gaps or cracks and seal them using weatherstripping or caulk. You may also consider adding insulation in your attic to prevent cool air from escaping through the roof.

6. Install a Programmable Thermostat

After you have optimized your home for maximum efficiency, consider installing a programmable thermostat to regulate your AC. These thermostats can automatically adjust the temperature depending on the time of day and your room’s occupancy. You can save on electricity bills by adjusting your cooling requirements when you’re away. A programmable thermostat can make it easy to keep your home at the desired temperature, even when you’re not at home.

7. Install Blinds or Curtains

The sun’s rays can heat your home quickly, increasing your energy bill. To keep the heat at bay, install blinds or curtains on your windows to prevent direct sunlight from entering your home. This will ensure your AC system does not work harder than it should keeping your home cool.

8. Limit Heat-Producing Activities

Appliances that generate heat, such as an oven or stovetop, can significantly increase the temperature in your home during the summer. When possible, cook outside or use a microwave. The more heat you can prevent from entering your home, the easier it will be for your AC system to keep you cool.

Conclusion

Protecting your AC system during the summer requires a bit of effort, but the reward is worth it. A well-maintained system and optimized home will ensure that your AC runs efficiently and that your home remains comfortable throughout the summer months. Regular maintenance, replacing the air filter, keeping the outdoor unit clean, using ceiling fans, sealing the home, installing a programmable thermostat, installing blinds or curtains, and limiting heat-producing activities are just a few ways you can protect your AC in summer. With these tips, you can rest assured that your AC system will serve you well for many summers to come.