If you’ve ever splurged on a new AC, you already know this unit is likely the single most expensive appliance you’ll ever buy for your home or business. On average, getting a new home air conditioner will run you anywhere from $3,882 to $7,905, depending on the system you purchase.
Given the high price tag, it’s safe to say no one wants to shell out for another air conditioner before they have to!
That’s why it pays to understand how to lengthen the lifespan of your AC system. The right techniques make it easy to reduce wear and tear, prevent major repairs, and keep your AC running for longer. If you’re ready to get more out of your system, here’s what you should know.
Keep It Clean
Like any machine, your AC runs best when it’s clean. Regular cleaning also ensures proper airflow throughout your property.
With a central air unit, aim to do cleaning and maintenance at least once a year.
Inspect the system and get rid of any accumulated dust. You can do this by hand, though a vacuum is often easier, and a brush attachment can help you remove dust from hard-to-reach areas.
Check the condenser lines for clogs and flush the line with bleach. Clean the evaporator coils as well according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Duct cleaning can help as well, especially if you feel like cool air is not reaching your property. You’ll need a professional to do this for you, though most duct systems will only need the service once every three to five years.
Outdoors, trim back any plants, shrubs, or trees that have grown close to your unit, and aim to have three feet of space between your AC and the nearest landscaping. Hose down the unit and clean any leaf matter or debris from its surface.
This is also a good time to check for leaks, damage, and other potential problems with your AC.
Replace Filters
In addition to regular AC cleaning, make sure to replace your air filters often! A clogged filter makes it harder for your system to function, leading to premature wear and tear, breakdowns, and other frustrating air conditioner problems.
Experts advise checking your AC filter at least once every 30 to 90 days, though high-quality filters can last up to 12 months depending on your household makeup. You may also need to swap the filter more or less often depending on your system use: when you’re relying on your AC more often in the summer, you’ll need to change the filter more than you would in the spring or fall.
Not only can clean filters extend your system’s lifespan, but they’re also crucial for your indoor air quality.
Seek Regular Maintenance
There’s a lot you can do on your own, just by cleaning, to keep your unit in good condition. However, that doesn’t mean you should skip AC maintenance!
Regular heating and cooling maintenance can help you catch minor problems before they snowball into major headaches. With an expert’s trained eye, you’ll often be able to address AC issues you couldn’t have caught on your own.
During an air conditioner inspection, a certified HVAC technician will clean any areas you can’t reach alone. They’ll check every inch of the indoor and outdoor unit for potential issues, lubricate moving parts, and do a thorough AC and heating tune-up.
This special attention has great benefits for the lifespan of your system. A system that runs smoothly experiences less wear and tear, needs fewer part replacements, and lasts longer than a poorly maintained system with frequent breakdowns.
Consider finding AC companies that can offer a maintenance agreement. Not only can these agreements sometimes save you money, but they’re a good way to ensure that you never miss a maintenance session.
Get Immediate Repairs
As soon as you notice any red flags with your system, get AC repair services.
When your air conditioner is struggling to perform as needed with a broken part, it can strain the system, lower the energy efficiency, and even cause early wear and tear. In some cases, it can even allow the problem to worsen! Fixing issues in a timely manner helps keep your system in top shape, and it may even help you avoid more expensive repair costs in the future.
Give It a Rest
Giving your AC a break can feel easier said than done in the Texas heat, but it’s a good way to extend its longevity. The more often your system runs, the shorter its lifespan.
This doesn’t mean you have to shut your system down on hot summer days when you need it.
Instead, make sure you’re turning the AC off when you plan on leaving the property. You can also switch your fan to “auto,” meaning it will only come on when the system is cooling. It also helps to keep your thermostat at an energy-saving temperature when your system is in use.
Keep Cool Air Indoors
If your home or business allows cool air to escape, you’re making your system work much harder, which may shorten its lifespan.
Seal and insulate your property to avoid heat gain. This is even more important in unfinished areas like attics and basements.
You can do this by using weatherstripping around windows and doors and upgrading your property’s insulation, for example, especially if your property feels drafty. Energy-efficient window treatments are also a good way to keep the heat outside where it belongs.
Enjoy Your AC System for Longer
Don’t run your air conditioner into the ground! By using the tips above, you’ll extend the lifespan of your AC system, allowing you to enjoy its cool air for years to come.
When you’re looking for the right partner to help you keep your AC in peak condition, Luxury Air A/C & Heating can help. With office hours seven days a week and affordable maintenance plans for customers throughout Magnolia, Conroe, The Woodlands, Montgomery, and beyond, we’re here to ensure your indoor comfort! To see our superior service firsthand, contact us today.
