Air conditioners are a lifeline, especially during the scorching summer months in Melbourne, FL. But, like any other home appliance, they are subject to wear and tear. Inefficient operation costs homeowners more in energy bills and leads to compromised comfort. Luckily, there are a variety of AC repair hacks that anyone can employ to ensure their system is running at peak efficiency.
These hacks are meant to supplement regular professional maintenance. A well-maintained system is the best way to ensure peak performance and efficiency. To schedule a professional inspection and maintenance service, contact Turtley Awesome today.
Hack 1: Regularly Replace or Clean Air Filters
How It Works:
Air filters trap particles and impurities, which can cause the AC system to work harder if not cleaned or replaced regularly. A clogged filter obstructs airflow and can freeze the system.
What To Do:
Check filters monthly and replace them every three months. Some filters are washable and can be cleaned instead of replaced.
Benefits:
Enhanced airflow, reduced energy consumption, and improved air quality.
Hack 2: Seal and Insulate Ductwork
How It Works:
Ducts can have leaks that allow cold air to escape, reducing efficiency and energy costs.
What To Do:
Use duct sealant or mastic tape to seal leaks. For further insulation, wrap ducts in foam insulation.
Benefits:
Increased efficiency, reduced energy bills, and more effective cooling.
Hack 3: Optimize Thermostat Settings
How It Works:
Correct thermostat settings can drastically affect the AC’s efficiency.
What To Do:
Set the thermostat at an optimal temperature when you’re home and adjust it to a higher setting when you’re away.
Benefits:
Lower energy consumption and improved comfort.
Hack 4: Utilize Fans for Air Circulation
How It Works:
Ceiling or portable fans can improve air circulation, which helps to distribute the cool air more evenly.
What To Do:
Turn on fans in rooms currently in use to help distribute the air.
Benefits:
Reduced load on the AC, leading to less energy consumption.
Hack 5: Clean the AC Coils
How It Works:
Dirty coils can make the system work harder, reducing its efficiency.
What To Do:
Clean the coils using a coil cleaner spray, following the manufacturer’s directions.
Benefits:
Higher efficiency and lower electricity bills.
Hack 6: Unblock and Clean Vents and Registers
How It Works:
Blocked or dirty vents and registers can impede airflow.
What To Do:
Remove any furniture or objects blocking the vents and use a vacuum to clean the vents.
Benefits:
Improved airflow and more efficient cooling.
Hack 7: Conduct Regular Inspections
How It Works:
Regular inspections can help detect issues before they become bigger problems.
What To Do:
Inspect the system for leaks, strange noises, and other problems.
Benefits:
Early detection of issues means lower repair costs in the long run.
Hack 8: Shade the Outdoor Unit
How It Works:
The outdoor unit, or the condenser, tends to work harder when exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
What To Do:
Provide shade for the outdoor unit by planting trees or installing an awning, ensuring not to obstruct airflow.
Benefits:
Reduced energy consumption due to a less-stressed condenser, leading to a more efficient system.
Hack 9: Check Refrigerant Levels
How It Works:
Low refrigerant levels can severely impact the AC’s cooling efficiency.
What To Do:
Check refrigerant levels and consult a professional to refill levels or check for leaks, as improperly handling refrigerants can be dangerous.
Benefits:
A system with the correct refrigerant levels will cool more efficiently and reduce energy costs.
Hack 10: Reset Circuit Breakers
How It Works:
Sometimes the AC might not be functioning because the circuit breaker has tripped.
What To Do:
Locate the circuit breaker box and find the switch corresponding to the AC system. Flip it to the “Off” position, wait a few seconds, and then flip it back to “On”.
Benefits:
Quickly restores power to the AC unit without needing professional help unless frequent tripping occurs, which would necessitate further investigation.
The Intersection of DIY Hacks and Professional Care
While these AC repair hacks can significantly boost your air conditioner’s efficiency, longevity, and performance, it’s crucial to recognize the limits of DIY approaches. Complex problems often require professional insights and expertise for effective resolution. So if your air conditioning unit is still falling short despite employing these strategies, consider reaching out to Turtley Awesome for specialized solutions that deliver.
