Your A/C needs some TLC.
Summer is almost here. And you definitely deserve some comfort. This newsletter is packed with quick tips and tricks to help make sure this is your coolest summer ever.
Tip #1: Hose it down
You wouldn’t run in a sweater when it’s 95 degrees outside, would you?
But that’s exactly what you’re asking your central air conditioner to do if you turn it on without cleaning it first.
The part of your central air conditioner that is outside the house is called the “condenser.” Over the winter, your condenser has taken on layers of dust and debris. This “sweater” blocks the free flow of air, which makes it work harder to keep your house cool.
This costs more money, wastes energy, increases the chance of a breakdown, and over time it can shorten the life expectancy of your equipment
What to do? Before you turn on your air conditioner for the first time, clear the condenser of any visible debris that you can safely access (think: clumps of leaves right on top). Then, hose it down with your regular garden hose to remove pollen, dust or debris. It’s as simple as that. Caution: do not use high pressure nozzles or jet sprays, which can damage the condenser.
Tip #2: Get a tune-up
Air conditioners aren’t meant to be installed and forgotten about. To maximize efficiency and extend the life of your system, it’s important to get annual inspections and tune-ups. A trained technician can quickly evaluate your system and make any necessary repairs. It’s a modest investment that can seriously pay off in the long run. No one wants to be caught with a total system breakdown on the hottest day of the year!
Tip #3: Keep it on
It’s tempting to turn your air conditioner off and on as needed. It even feels like it should be the budget-friendly and eco-friendly choice. The truth: Your air conditioner has to work extra hard every time it is turned on.
A better solution: During the warmest months, raise the temperature in your home when you will be gone for the day or when you can tolerate it, but don’t turn your A/C all the way off. A programmable thermostat can help regulate the temperature and keep things within a tolerable range. If it’s time to replace your air conditioning equipment, consider a self-modulating system that automatically adjusts the cooling and the fan speed. A modulating system is designed to keep the equipment running continuously at various levels of cooling while maintaining the temperature you set on your thermostat.
How much does it cost to install central A/C?
Considering replacing or upgrading your air conditioning system? Every home is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all cost. A trained technician can evaluate your unique situation and discuss multiple solutions to fit within your budget and provide a system that works best for you.
Central air conditioning gets all the headlines but it’s not the only option. Mini-splits, also known as ductless A/Cs, might be a more cost-effective solution, especially in older homes that have boilers and don’t have ducts running through the home. Call and make an appointment with Bonfe to find out what’s best for you.
