Florida’s extreme weather conditions can be very hard on an air conditioner and it’s important to keep a few things in mind when trying to preserve the life of the unit. High humidity and elevated temperatures keep our air conditioners working overtime close to nine months out of the year. What can you do to help keep the system running at peak efficiency? Here are six basic tips homeowners should remember:
- Change filters regularly: Filters should be changed every 30 days at a minimum. This is a simple DIY effort that many homeowners can undertake themselves and it helps a lot. AC systems that have to pull air through dirty, clogged filters will work harder than they should. Indoor air quality will also improve with a clean filter.
- Clear debris around outdoor components: Leaves, branches, and yard clippings can easily obstruct the air flow of outdoor units and force them to struggle. Simple inspections can be conducted by a homeowner to make sure the areas around the component are clear.
- Insulate well: Proper insulation and well-sealed doors and windows will help air conditioners work only when they need to. Homes that conserve their cool or warmth as required will lower energy bills and preserve the operating capacity of your HVAC system.
- Regular system maintenance: AC inspections and maintenance can help identify remedies to big problems before they happen. Licensed HVAC contractors can quickly and efficiently provide your system with the maintenance requirements that go above the abilities of most homeowners. This can include AC coil cleaning and electrical component inspections.
- Inspect ductwork: Leaky ductwork is expensive ductwork. An HVAC system with faulty ductwork can drain 20-40% of the energy out of properly maintained air conditioners. Ductwork should also be cleaned regularly to improve airflow and air quality.
- Utilize improved AC technology: Today’s AC systems have increased levels of efficiency due to advancing technological improvements and requirements from government agencies. New installations for homes in Florida now have a minimum of SEER 14 due to the elevated heat levels found in the southeast.
There are a number of AC efficiency tips that can easily be handled by homeowners. For advanced efficiency improvement suggestions, ask our HVAC professional team for advice. In Port St. Lucie, call (772) 398-0023 or ((772) 220-1496 in Martin County.
