6 Tips on How to Make Your AC Unit Last Longer

Repairing or replacing AC units is costly, but if they are maintained well, they can last up to 20 years. Here are 6 tips to make your AC unit last longer while saving money.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

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Image by Flickr by SearsHomeImprovements

The most effective way to make your AC unit last longer is to schedule HVAC maintenance at least once a year. Don’t postpone this essential service in hopes of saving money by doing it less often. The professionals who clean and inspect your HVAC unit can detect any minor issue and fix it before it becomes critical.

Inspect Air Ducts

It’s important to verify your ducts’ insulation. Look for signs of small leaks in the ductwork which can cause air to escape before reaching the rooms in your home. Leaks in your system can overstress the unit, and as your HVAC works harder, it consumes more energy and raises your costs. 

Improve Airflow

To keep your system running smoothly, it is essential to improve airflow. Make sure to keep all registers open. Many homeowners think they will save on energy costs by closing registers in rooms that aren’t often used, but the opposite happens, as the system must overwork to cool the entire house. When cooled air can flow freely through your home, the AC unit works less. 

Obstacles in or around your HVAC system force it to fight against pressure imbalances and must be removed. Have a contractor clear the unit’s ductwork from any obstructions and make sure that furniture, drapes, and rugs are not blocking the airflow.

Keep Outdoor Systems Clean

Remember to maintain the outdoor unit regularly. You should keep about 2 feet of free space around it to make sure that nothing blocks the airflow. Periodically trim surrounding bushes and trees, cut the grass short, and keep the area and unit free of debris. Remove fallen leaves, grass clippings or sticks before they build upon the unit to avoid blockage and costly intervention.

Protect HVAC Unit From Heat

Avoid placing the outdoor AC unit under direct sunlight or near other heat sources. These systems should always be installed in a shady area. If your unit is under a tree, trim the branches so they can’t get stuck in the unit and block the airflow. If it is on the sunny side of the building, use blinds or a simple structure to protect it.

Change Air Filters Regularly

The role of air filters is to catch pollutants like pollen, pet dander or airborne dirt to prevent them from entering your indoor air supply. They are the most critical part of the HVAC’s efficiency. If the filters get clogged, the system is forced to work harder and may malfunction. Professionals recommend changing the air filters every 2 months, especially for pet owners.Maintenance and protection of your HVAC are essential to extend its lifetime. A system that is crucial to your family’s comfort should always be running efficiently and effectively. Every homeowner can employ easy tips and general knowledge to stay comfortable all year long.