Help Your AC Run Efficiently
We all know how unbearably hot Texas gets in the summer. And when temperatures rise, home AC is more than just convenience. It’s survival. Taking care of your AC and preventing problems saves you money and a lot of discomfort. These cool tips will keep your AC running at peak efficiency this summer.
How to Maintain AC Efficiency in 5 Steps
Keeping your AC at peak efficiency means that you don’t need to use it as much to keep your home cool. This is an easy way to save money on your electric bill. Plus, basic AC maintenance gives your machine a longer life, saving you more money in the long run.
Follow these 5 easy AC maintenance steps to save money and protect your home:
- Inspect your AC regularly: Turn off your AC inside and then remove the cover on the outside condenser to inspect the inside. If you see any bent condenser coil fins, you can straighten them with a fin comb.
- Clean the coils once a year: The outside condenser coil cools refrigerant that makes the system work. But, since it’s outside, these coils collect dirt. Use a foaming coil cleaner to clear the dirt and grime on the coil. This will improve airflow efficiency.
- Maintain good airflow: Your outside AC unit needs a few feet of space for optimal air flow. Trim back your bushes, shrubs, and tall grass to keep the space clear.
- Change the air filter regularly: To keep your AC running efficiently, make sure you change the air filter regularly.
- Flush the drip line yearly: Overflown drip lines can cause water damage or mold in your home. Luckily, it’s easy to prevent it. Before the cooling season begins, pour one cup of household bleach or vinegar down the drip line, and follow it with two cups of water.
Why Is the Outside Condenser Unit Making So Much Noise?
If your AC condenser makes unfamiliar noises, don’t panic. There may be an easy fix.
Buzzing can be a sign of loose parts or dirt on the condenser coil. Be sure to clear away leaves, sticks and other debris from the outside unit. Then, turn the AC off, and find and tighten any loose screws on the housing. Finally, rinse off the condenser coil with a spray hose to flush away any dirt or debris.
The AC condenser unit can shake and vibrate when it runs. This can pull and twist the coolant piping connections and over time possibly cause leaks. If your AC rattles or hums, but leaning on it makes the noise stop, the fix is really easy. Wedge something under the corners to keep the condenser unit level and reduce the vibration. You can use a piece of wood, a brick, or AC pads.
Of course, if maintenance steps don’t reduce the noise, it’s time to call a repairman.
When to Replace Your AC With A New High Efficiency Unit
The life of your AC depends on your model and how much you use it. And it greatly depends on how well you take care of it. But even for systems that work well for years, there comes a time to say goodbye. If your system is over 10 years old, it’s probably time to replace it. A new HVAC system may be an investment, but greater efficiency lowers your electric bill.
Shop For Cheaper Electric Rates in Texas
Apart from keeping your AC in tip-top shape, a great way to save money on electricity is to have a find a cheaper electriciy plan.
Visit https://www.texaselectricityratings.com today to compare rates and find the cheapest deal for our home.