Save Money On Air Conditioning Unit Maintenance

Having a yearly service on your air conditioning unit is critical, but there are things you really should be doing in between the maintenance schedule to keep your air conditioner unit in working order. Most repair contractors will charge a premium to come out on short notice and fix an air conditioner, so keeping on top of basic maintenance will not only save you money with increased efficiency, it will save excess charges for repairs. Here are a few things you should be doing on a regular schedule outside of your yearly service calls.

Change the Filters

It isn't a myth... one of the most important things to keep up on with your air conditioning unit is the filter. The filter can get clogged with dust, pollen, and other debris. If the filter is allowed to accumulate this grime, it makes the motor run harder, making the unit much less efficient. A dirty filter can also result in poor indoor air quality. Changing a filter usually takes less than 15 minutes, and you typically only need a screwdriver (if that) to complete the task. During the summer months you should check and replace your filters monthly.

Cover Condenser Unit

The condenser unit will sit outside the home. This makes it prone to falling leaves, grime, dirt, and other outdoor hazards that can cause damage. If you allow dirt and leaves to fall in to the condenser unit you risk it becoming much less efficient and shortening the lifespan. You can purchase a cover to use during the off season for under $50, or you can make one on your own using plastic tarps or cloth with a lining (such as a shower curtain). Just be sure to not run the unit while it is covered.

Air Registers

Air registers are located throughout your home. Sometimes these are placed on the ceiling, while others may be found on the floor or along the baseboards. Air registers that are blocked by furniture or clutter will force your air conditioning unit to work harder to cool the room. You also need to keep the registers cleaned to avoid blowing dust and grime throughout your home. At the end of the cooling season, close the registers. This will keep your home warmer in the winter, and will prevent pests and other debris from building up inside the registers. Damaged registers should be replaced, and can be done for very little money.

Air Duct Cleaning

This is not something that you should attempt on your own, but it is a good idea to have this done when you have your yearly service. There will be an extra charge, but it can save you a big headache later if it is not done. The air ducts can become breeding grounds for mold and mildew, which will eventually end up inside your home. Pollen, dust, and other grime can also build up in the duct work, causing respiratory issues if not cleaned. On top of that, the system will have to work harder to force air through very dirty ducts. This equals higher monthly bills to keep your home cooled. To learn more about saving money on parts or to get the best price on air conditioning units, visit www.budgetAirSupply.com or call us at 855-473-6484.