So many homes and businesses have air conditioning, you can take it for granted. However, your air conditioner is a precise piece of machinery and it pays to know both how it works and how to best maintain it.
Here are some common questions about air conditioners, their performance, and their component parts.
I Have a Large House, Do I Need a Large Air Conditioner?
This is an important consideration. A unit that is too small will run more often, while one that is too big will sit idle taking up space. Calculate your home’s size in square footage and divide that number by 400. This will reveal the tonnage of the model needed as you require one ton to cool approximately 400 square feet. If you are not sure, contact one of your local suppliers for recommendations.
What is the Filter for and How I Often Should I Clean/Replace It?
In the process of cooling the environment, the unit takes in air that contains impurities. These can include dust, pollen, and dirt. The filter stops these from entering the machine and compromising its functioning. Dirty or completely clogged filters require the machine to use more electricity to function. That means higher electrical bills and no guarantee that this extra power is even improving the quality of the air coming out.
We recommend that you clean or replace the filter at least bimonthly, and more often if you have pets. A properly functioning filter makes your air conditioner more energy efficient. It also improves the quality of air in your home. The filter captures the impurities, removing them from the environment, and reducing the possibility of asthma and allergies.
How Do I Know If My Air Conditioner Needs to be Repaired?
Obviously, if the unit is not functioning, you have a problem. However, there are other, more subtle signs it could use a professional’s attention. Is the unit making strange noises? Do you find it is cooling less effectively, but its power consumption has gone up? Is there a strange smell coming out?
We recommend that you play it safe and book an annual maintenance appointment. This allows the service professional to catch any issues before they develop into major problems. As with any machinery, the longer you wait to address a problem, the worse it will get and the more expensive it can be to fix.
How Noisy Will My Air Conditioner Be?
In addition to improved efficiency, new air conditioners are much quieter than the ones you grew up with. In fact, in most cases, you probably will not hear anything when the unit is running properly.
How Long Will My Air Conditioner Last?
In general, a contemporary air conditioner should last 20 years. However, like all machines, the lifespan depends on
how you use and care for the unit. In order to get the longest lifespan and best quality performance, follow the operating manual’s recommendations and address any problems as soon as they are apparent. Finally, annual check-ups from a qualified technician are an excellent way to ensure smooth, effective operation, and many years of consistent home comfort.
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