When you get a new air conditioner, you want to take excellent care of it from day one. How you care for your AC in its early days will have a huge impact on how well it operates over its entire lifespan. Plus, you’re establishing great habits that will help ensure you take good care of your AC consistently over the years.
We have maintenance tips that can help you maximize energy efficiency and help your air conditioner last for longer than average. If you need air conditioning installation in Lake Oswego, OR, give our team a call. In the meantime, you can keep reading to learn about the best practices for taking care of your AC from day one.
Thermostat Settings
During the summer, you want to stay cool inside your home. You may be tempted to set your thermostat low in hopes of keeping your home extra cool. However, this can put a lot of strain on your AC. Experts actually recommend that you set your thermostat no lower than 78° in the summer for cooling. If you’re not used to this temperature, it can seem really hot at first.
But we encourage you to set your thermostat, even a degree or two higher than you are used to you in an effort of reducing strain on your unit. Plus, you stand to save money on your monthly energy bills each month. After setting your thermostat a degree or two higher, allow a couple of weeks to adjust and then increase it again until you reach a temperature that is comfortable enough but still saves you money.
Air Filter
Changing your air filter on time every 1-2 months during the cooling season is crucial to how your air conditioner operates from day to day and how long of a lifespan it has. Most air filters are rated to be changed out once per month. Leaving the filter in for longer can result in airflow into the system being blocked as the filter fills up. Your air conditioner will strain to bring in more air, working harder and taking on more wear and tear.
Condensate Drain Line
It’s also important to rinse the condensate drain line with vinegar when you change out the air filter. The condensate drain line is where humidity condenses to drain outside of your home as part of the cooling process.
But the dark, moist drain line can be the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow, even potentially causing clogs. Using vinegar is a great way to prevent mold and mildew and keep the drain line clear of clogs.
Professional Maintenance
Homeowner maintenance is crucial, but there’s only so much you can do without the help of an AC professional. It’s important for our team to take a look at your unit every year because our expert eyes can see potential problems before they even begin. We know exactly what to look for so you can address problems early and stay ahead of AC breakdowns.
For HVAC, indoor air quality, and water heater services, look no further than the team who is “Connecting People to Comfort” – Clawson Heating & Air Conditioning. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!