Get More From Your Air Conditioner this Summer

Did you know as much as half the energy used in your home goes to heating and cooling? The impact on energy bills is most noticeable during hot summer and cold winter months. In this blog post, let’s focus on the summertime, where some simple A/C maintenance tips can help you save while keeping cool.

Check your thermostat settings
Use a programmable or smart thermostat to stay comfortable when you’re home and save energy and money while away.

Change your filters regularly
Inspect, clean or change the air filters in your air conditioner once a month or based on manufacturer recommendations. A dirty filter blocks airflow, increases energy costs and can lessen the lifespan of your cooling equipment.

Clean evaporator and condenser A/C coils
Coils can collect dirt over time. Check your evaporator coil every year and clean as needed. You’ll also want to minimize dirt and debris near the condenser unit. The outdoor condenser coil is easy to spot, and you should be able to tell if dirt is collecting on its fins. Keep the outdoor condenser unit free of shrubbery, leaves, lawn clippings, trees branches and vines.

Check and inspect the condensate drain
A plugged drain in your air conditioner may cause water damage and affect indoor humidity levels. You can carefully pass a stiff wire through the unit’s drain channels to clear blockage.

Seal your ducts
Many homeowners choose to work with a professional to seal leaky ductwork. This adds comfort, reduces wear and tear, and improves the efficiency of your cooling system.

Get an annual pre-season check-up
If possible, have your heating and cooling contractor come out once a year to inspect your system. Just like tuning up a car, having a yearly tune-up of your heating and cooling systems will help to ensure everything is in tip-top shape.

If you need a professional to take a look at your A/C system, we can help you find a qualified contractor and cash incentives. Just reach out to a Trade Ally contractor to get started.