AC Operation in Summer
At the height of the summer the air conditioners become our best buddies when it comes to cooling our homes as well as our brains in unbearable temperatures. Air conditioners employ about 5 % of all the electricity produced in the USA, having homeowners spend more than $11 billion a year on energy consumption according to some estimates. Consider the following issues and take simple actions to make your AC run at its maximum efficiency and save on your electricity bills at the same time.
- Improper Operation
Number one problem with most ACs is improper operation of your unit. Close your home’s windows and outside doors before turning your air conditioner on. When using room ACs, isolate that room as much as possible from other rooms of your home.
- Leaks of Refrigerant
If you have noticed that your AC lacks refrigerant, there are two probable reasons to explain this issue – it was either undercharged at installation or has sprung a leak. Leaks of refrigerant are not just a plain nuisance interfering with the proper operation of the unit, they can be really harmful to the environment. Adding refrigerant is not a solution in this case. A qualified AC specialist should take care of the existing leak, examine the fixed AC, and after this charge the system with the right amount of refrigerant. Remember that your AC unit should be neither undercharged nor overcharged.
- Insufficient Maintenance
If AC filters and coils become dusty, the air conditioner does not work as it should, making the compressor or fans fail too soon. A mere replacing of a dirty, clogged air filter will lower your AC’s energy consumption by 5-15 %, which will considerably influence your utility bill at the end of the month.
- Electric Control Malfunction
If you turn your AC unit on and off frequently, the compressor and fan controls will eventually fail which will cause the whole unit to malfunction. Corrosion of wire and terminals also becomes a problem in some AC systems, that’s why it is essential to check electrical connections and contacts during a professional maintenance visit to ensure that your system cools your home properly.
- Drainage Problems
Check the condensate drain that must not be clogged and drain properly, especially when it is humid outside. Room ACs may not drain properly if they are positioned uneven.
There are many other problems with your AC that might arise during summer. No matter what the problem might be, the AC specialists from Downey Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning will deal with it, giving valuable advice and fixing your AC if it is necessary. Give us a call today!
