Every homeowner would like to save on electricity bills this summer. Learning the rules to AC unit care and what habits to avoid will all contribute to less energy consumption per month. Take the time to understand your current electricity habits by examining last years’ energy bills. Is there a significant pattern here? Be sure to keep this in mind as you monitor your AC usage this summer. Catch up on the correct “Do’s” and all the “Don’ts” to avoid, in order to cut back on expenses and get the best performance value out of your appliance.

Proper Air Conditioning Maintenance

Not only can relearning ways to efficiently use your AC save you money on monthly electricity bills, it can increase the longevity of the unit; reducing the likelihood of having to replace it with another costly unit down the line. Taking the necessary steps to protect your HVAC appliances, especially the air conditioner, can dramatically reduce the chances of appliance failures and breakdowns. This is another area where money could be saved. Here are some items to check off your list for air conditioning maintenance in your home before the summer begins.

Check the Thermostat

A properly functioning and calibrated thermostat is vital when it comes to efficient home air conditioning usage. Be sure to invest in a quality digital thermostat. These models rarely break. If your thermostat is broken, your AC will not function correctly, or at all. This is an area that should be inspected pre-season, every year. Also, avoid leaving the thermostat setting on all the time. This seems like it could increase the cooling effect indoors, but in fact, it brings moisture back into the home and drastically increases energy bills per month.

Don’t have your thermostat set on the coolest setting. This is a frequent mistake made by homeowners. Keep your indoor temperature settings at efficient levels to acquire the right amount of cooling in your home. Depending on the climate and region, an appropriate thermostat setting in the summer is around 71 degrees.

Routine Cleaning for AC Units

Before every warm season begins, have your air conditioning system cleaned and restored. This can be a DIY job for homeowners that are experienced in handy work; however, it is recommended to have a professional HVAC technician accomplish this task for you. They retain the industry knowledge, experience, and equipment to get the job done right. Filters, panel doors, condenser coils, and more are all areas that require routine cleaning to promote a healthier indoor air quality and accurate unit performance for your home. A dirty system can reduce the indoor air quality, causing allergies, respiratory irritations, and other minor health implications. This can lead to costly medical and pharmacy bills.

Maintain Refrigerant Levels

Do have your system serviced regularly, around twice per year, in order to have your refrigerant levels checked. Improper refrigerant charge will damage the compressor, which is basically the heart if the air conditioner. Without the compressor working, you have no AC in hot weather. Before the compressor breaks down, electricity bills will be high and the unit’s efficiency levels will be low.

For more information about the importance of maintaining your ac unit, call A Comfortable Climate in West Palm Beach, FL today! We are licensed, bonded, and insured ac repair specialists with over 20 years of experience in the industry. We offer a variety of HVAC services, such as cleaning, installations, repairs, replacements, and more. West Palm Beach Air Conditioning retains the most competitive rates in town, and offers monthly ac repair coupons too!