You’ve probably experienced this one. Jacksonville is experiencing record heat and the air conditioner in your home is blowing out warm air or stops running entirely. Along with hundreds of other people in our community, you reach for the phone to call your HVAC specialist, and wait out the heat until relief arrives. Although some A/C problems will require a professional technician, here are a few tips that can be used to minimize the likeliness of this happening to you this summer.
Maximize Air Flow
To work properly, your air conditioner needs to pull air through the system, including recirculating air from within your home. If this process is obstructed in any way, it can result in trouble and repair costs. To assure you have the manufacturer suggested air flow, make sure to keep clear the immediate area around the vents - indoors and outside. This includes cutting back vegetation and cleaning dirt away from vents.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Beyond helping reduce energy costs by regulating your home’s temperature, programmable thermostats can also help minimize impact on your system. Program your air conditioner for warmer temperatures when the home is empty or at night when it cools down outside.
In addition, program your thermostat for extended run-cycles. While this does not necessary prevent problems, it can help bring down the humidity in your Jacksonville area home. This can give you a more comfortable environment, plus keep mold spores from developing in your home.
Get Rid of Any Pests
For some reason certain bugs and pests are attracted to air conditioning units, which can be damaging if they get inside the system. To keep ants and other pests away, use an eco-friendly pesticide around the exterior of the unit with a reasonably wide perimeter of 24 – 36 inches.
Stay Level
The majority of outdoor A/C units are positioned on a concrete slab or other platform, giving them a level base of operation. However, over time these can settle or sag, limiting the performance of the air conditioner. Every now and then, look at your outdoor component to ensure that the base continues to stay level.
Obviously, regular maintenance, such as lubrication and filter changes, are pretty important to keep your air conditioner operating as it should. Call 904-450-5672 to schedule annual maintenance service before the summer starts to ensure your system is ready to face the hot days ahead. Following these suggestions, you may be able to avoid A/C problems and have a stress-free and climate controlled home all summer.