Common Mistakes Homeowners Make With Their Air Conditioners

Maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the house is good for the health and relief of the family. So, you need a properly functioning air conditioner for this. However, your use also greatly affects its efficiency and reliability. You probably read some tips on effectively using and caring for your AC to keep it running correctly for the longest time. But it’s also important that you know the common mistakes homeowners make when using their air conditioners so that you can avoid them. Here are some examples.

Not replacing the filters

Dirt can build up in the filters, causing poor airflow and making the AC work harder to push cool air and make the home’s temperature more comfortable. Replace the filters every three months or more often, depending on the dust or dirt accumulated at home and your AC use. If you have a split-type, ductless AC unit, the filters only require cleaning by wiping with a rag instead of replacing them. 

Setting the thermostat too low

Some homeowners believe setting the thermostat low can make the air conditioner cool the room quicker. The AC has the same speed for cooling a room. So, it takes longer to cool a room if the temperature is too low. Set it to a comfortable level, which is 24°C or 75.2°F. The air conditioner doesn’t have to overwork to maintain the temperature, thus preventing premature replacement.  

Not having regular maintenance

Some owners wait for their AC to malfunction before getting it professionally serviced. However, a yearly maintenance service is recommended to keep it running efficiently and extend its life. If living around East Sussex, a reliable and expert air conditioning Brighton service provider can take care of the AC maintenance for you. It prevents serious problems that could lead to inconvenience, costly repair, or even untimely replacement. You will also save money on your energy bill because a properly maintained AC will not consume much power. 

Closing vents in unused rooms

There might be rooms in the house you no longer use, but cool air still passes through the vents. For example, you might convert one of your guest rooms into a stock room that doesn’t need cooling. So, check all the rooms you don’t need to cool, but don’t completely close the air vents. Doing so will cause air build-up, which may lead to leaks. Instead, seal them partially so air still gets through without consuming much energy. 

Not turning the AC off

It’s a common misconception that it’s better to leave the AC running than turn it off when you leave the house, as it needs to work harder when you get back. If you leave the air conditioner on, it will turn on and off to maintain the set temperature, so it still consumes energy. Turning it off, especially if you will be away for a long time, will not consume power. It may take time to cool the place again, but it’s part of the normal process. 

Using the wrong AC size

Some homeowners think that bigger ACs are always the best option, but this is wrong. An oversized AC cycles more often, which makes it more prone to damage. It also increases humidity, making homes vulnerable to mildew, mould, viruses, and bacteria. The price of a bigger AC is usually higher than smaller units. However, just because smaller units are cheaper doesn’t mean that they’re your best option. There are also many disadvantages if it’s smaller than what you need. The AC will take time to cool the room, making it work harder, thus, affecting its efficiency. If it works more than it should, the parts could easily get damaged, shortening its lifespan. The best size of AC is one that is ideal for your space. Measure the room you wish to cool and use that information when buying a new AC. 

Performing a DIY AC repair

People can easily go online to read information or watch video tutorials on almost any topic they want to know, including fixing AC problems. Changing the filters and cleaning the coils are things you can do for maintenance. However, it’s best to leave everything that requires repair or further servicing to the experts. If you are not a professional AC technician, trying to fix it yourself could do more harm than good. It could worsen the damage, causing more inconvenience and adding expenses on the repair or its replacement. So always consult a professional when it comes to your AC. 

Remember these things and ensure not to do them with your AC to keep it working at its best and extend its lifespan.