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Living in Southwest Florida means dealing with hot and humid weather for a large part of the year. To stay comfortable, air conditioning is practically a necessity. However, when your A/C system stops working, it can quickly transform from an essential convenience into a major financial burden. Let’s look at a few easy ways to keep your air conditioner in top shape so you can avoid expensive repairs.
1. Clean or Replace Your Air Filter Regularly
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain your A/C system is to replace the air filter on a regular basis (or clean it, if your air conditioner has a reusable filter). A dirty A/C filter restricts airflow, forcing the unit to work harder to keep your space cool and consume more energy in the process. Even worse, a badly clogged filter can reduce your home’s indoor air quality.
You should check your A/C system’s filter once per month and clean or replace it as needed. Usually, changing the air filter in your air conditioner is a straightforward process that you can complete by yourself.
2. Use a Wi-Fi Thermostat
A Wi-Fi thermostat allows you to control the temperature in your home remotely or set it to adjust automatically according to a schedule. By leaving the temperature a bit higher when you’re away from home, you can reduce your A/C’s workload and prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
Simply turning your air conditioner off when you leave the house and turning it back on when you return does not have the same effect as automating your home’s temperature; when you leave your A/C off entirely during the first part of the day, you force it to work extra hard to cool down your home when you need it most in the afternoon or evening. An automated system makes small adjustments based on your schedule to reduce energy consumption and prolong the life of your air conditioner.
3. Give Your Outdoor A/C Unit Plenty of Space
Proper airflow is crucial for keeping an outdoor A/C unit operating efficiently. Ensure the area around your outdoor unit remains clear of debris and other obstructions such as tree branches or patio furniture.
Poor airflow can cause your system to overheat and break down — resulting in costly professional repairs. To allow for optimal ventilation, try to provide at least two feet of clearance on all sides of your outdoor air conditioning unit.
4. Schedule Proactive Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to preventing serious A/C issues. By getting ahead of minor issues before they become urgent, you can avoid more expensive repair work down the line.
It’s a good idea to make an appointment with a reliable HVAC technician once per year. During a routine maintenance appointment, your HVAC technician will inspect and clean your A/C system and address any potential problems they find.
Air Conditioning Repairs in Southwest Florida
In general, staying on top of regular cleaning and maintenance is the best way to avoid expensive A/C repair fees. By following these four simple tips, you can keep your home’s A/C system in peak condition for longer and greatly reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
To learn more about how to properly care for your HVAC system, or to schedule an appointment with a technician, contact Chill Squad Air Conditioning. You’ll quickly see why we’re one of the most widely trusted HVAC services in Southwest Florida!