A Few Tips to Keep Your Air Conditioning Unit Running Smoothly

When the weather starts to warm up outside, it is important to make sure that your air conditioning unit or system is operating properly to ensure that your home stays cool and comfortable. The last thing you need is for your unit to stop working at the time you need it most. That is why regular air conditioning maintenance is so very important.

Here are a few things you can do to make sure your air conditioner does not go out on you. By following these simple tips, not only will you add life to your unit, but many will help save money on your energy bills as well.

Change Your AC Filters Regularly
Although to many this may seem over stated and over rated, changing your air conditioning filters regularly can really save you a lot of grief and money as well. The air conditioning filters actually pull the air form the inside of your house. When this happens, dust, dander, pollen, dust mites, and other allergens are pulled into the filter and trapped or prevented from entering the unit. This ensures that when the air is re-circulated, it is cleaner and purer.

When you fail to change your ac filters on a regular basis, the filters become full of dust and debris. Over time they can get really clogged which can cause extra pressure on your ac unit. This can not only be harmful to your unit, making have to work harder, but it can also cause your system to use more energy which in turn costs more money. So, as you can see, it actually pays to change your filters, no matter how much of a pain it may seem at the time.

Make Sure Doors and Windows Are Properly Sealed
One of the main ways you lose precious cool air is through poorly sealed doors and windows. Check around your windows and doors to see if you are losing air. If you find that you are, you can purchase weather stripping from your local hardware or home improvement store and seal up those cracks and crevices. You will be amazed what a difference that little inexpensive weather stripping can make. It will help to keep the warm air out and your cool air in. This will also help to reduce your energy bill.

Keep Outside Unit Free and Clear of Debris
Out of sight - out of mind is usually the case when we are talking about our outside ac unit. However, it is very important to make sure that the unit is free and clear of debris such as leaves and pine straw. Debris such as this can cause serious damage to your fan and unit if left unattended to. Also, make sure to trim bushes and trees away from you unit. Taking a little time to keep the area clear will help your system keep functioning properly.

Have Yearly Maintenance Performed by a Heating and Air Company
It is a wise decision to have your unit checked out once a year by a heating and air company that you can trust. They will check your unit over and clean it thoroughly. They will replace any belts or parts that may need replacing and also see to it that your Freon level is sufficient. Having routine maintenance will add to the life and efficiency of your unit.