Tips for Making Your AC Installation Last Longer in Pell City, AL
Older air conditioner models have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years, after which they start failing and need a replacement. Newer models can last longer with proper care. Here are four ways you can make your AC installation last longer in Pell City, AL:
Change Your Air Filters Frequently
Air conditioners have filters that ensure the air circulating in your building is free of pollutants. They trap contaminants such as dust, pollen and pet dander. Some filters remove odors, smoke particles, viruses and bacteria.
After some time, the trapped particles accumulate on the filter medium, restricting airflow. The AC installation has to overwork to draw in air, which strains its components. Increased wear and tear contribute to frequent repairs or premature system breakdown.
Some air conditioners use reusable filters. Ensure you clean these filters every one to three months for central systems and one to two weeks for mini-split systems. The cleaning frequency can change depending on how often the system runs and the pollution level of the air in your home.
For disposable filters, check their condition regularly and replace them when necessary. You will usually replace them every two to three months. Besides contributing to a longer system life, clean air filters help you have better indoor air quality.
Schedule Regular AC Maintenance
Air conditioners should have professional maintenance at least once every year. During a maintenance appointment, service technicians inspect all the system components to check their working condition. By doing this, they can identify any minor issues before they escalate to major problems.
Also, service technicians will lubricate the moving parts to reduce friction as the system works. Without this, continued use of the system results in excess wear, which can result in premature system breakdown.
Additionally, professional service technicians will clean the evaporator and condenser coils. They will then check for cracks or gaps leading to refrigerant leaks. If they find gaps or cracks, they will repair them and refill the refrigerant to the required amounts.
Air conditioners rely on a refrigerant to absorb heat from the warm indoor air and transfer it to the outdoor unit for release to the environment. Leaks result in inadequate refrigerant.
With a low refrigerant level, the system has to overwork to deliver the desired indoor temperatures. An overworked system can have a reduced lifespan.
Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clean
During harsh weather, debris can enter the outdoor unit or fall into the surrounding area. Debris, such as stones, leaves and twigs, can interfere with free airflow. If debris enters the air conditioner, it can interfere with the fan or damage the condenser coils or fins.
Pests can also build their nests inside the AC system. Ensure you regularly clean the exterior wall of the unit and check for animal nests. Also, make sure there are at least two feet of clearance around the unit by cutting weeds, grass, trees or bushes.
Without proper airflow, the air conditioner cannot freely release heat to the environment. This forces the AC installation to strain to keep your home cool, contributing to a shorter lifespan.
Improve Your Home’s Insulation
Proper insulation and weatherization contribute to energy savings. This is because your home retains the cooled air for longer periods as it doesn’t escape through leaks or by conduction. Also, warm outdoor air won’t seep into the house.
Energy loss can also occur in the air ducts when they’re not properly insulated or when there are leaks. If the ductwork passes through unconditioned space, cooled air will escape to the space while warm air seeps into the ductwork.
When your home is well insulated and contains the air it cools, your air conditioner has time to rest before starting another cycle. This can help extend your AC system’s lifespan.
Air conditioners are an expensive investment, and you should ensure yours serves you as long as possible. Our professionals at Air Experts can provide quality AC installation and maintenance to keep your system in optimal condition, so contact us today for the expertise you can rely on.
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