Top 10 Tips to Prevent Air Conditioning Problems

There’s absolutely nothing worse than dealing with a broken air conditioner during a heatwave. The initial signs of an imminent breakdown may be discreet—weird noises, odd smells or reduced cooling. Before you know it, these small issues grow into full-blown malfunctions. However, with a bit of forethought and routine maintenance, you can keep your air conditioner running smoothly. Here are 10 tips to prevent AC problems this summer.

1.  Replace the Air Filter Regularly

One simple yet effective tip is to check the air filter monthly and replace it if it’s dirty, going no more than 90 days between filter changes. A clean filter facilitates smooth airflow, improves indoor air quality and enhances air conditioning efficiency. A clogged or dirty filter, on the other hand, forces your AC to work overtime, which might contribute to breakdowns.

2.  Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Unobstructed

The outdoor AC unit needs sufficient space to intake and exhaust air easily. Regularly check the area around the unit, removing loose debris like leaves, grass clippings or twigs. Then, trim back any plants growing within 12 inches of the unit. These actions can prevent AC problems and promote optimal performance.

3.  Check the Condensate Drain Pan

The AC doesn’t simply cool the air—it also removes extra humidity. This moisture is collected in the condensate drain pan and then flows down the drain line. These components can become clogged over time, causing leaks and potential water damage. Regularly inspect the drain pan and line for blockages to avert these AC issues.

4.  Listen for Strange Noises or Smells

Your air conditioner typically operates with a soft, consistent hum. If you hear abnormal grinding, screeching or hissing, you can bet something’s not right. Similarly, if you detect strange electrical burning smells or musty odors, it’s time to investigate. These issues can indicate a number of AC problems, including motor damage or mold growth, and need to be addressed right away.

5.  Keep Your Vents Open

While closing vents in unused rooms may seem wise, doing so creates pressure imbalances and reduces system efficiency. To prevent AC problems, keep at least 80 percent of your return and supply vents open and unblocked by furniture, rugs and curtains.

6.  Install a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats are intuitive devices that optimize your air conditioning system’s operation and prevent problems. Once you program your preferred schedule, you can sit back and relax while your thermostat does the rest. Smart models are even more advanced, allowing you to check and adjust your home’s temperature remotely or even control the settings with your voice.

7.  Check Your Attic Insulation

AC efficiency doesn’t just depend on the unit’s mechanics. Adequate insulation is also crucial for maintaining a comfortable interior, preventing warm air from seeping in and cold air escaping. The attic is the easiest place to add insulation to an existing home, so glance inside the hatch to determine if the floor is covered with a thick, even layer of insulation. If that’s not the case, you may have to add more insulation to enjoy significant energy savings and prevent straining your AC.

8.  Avoid Heat-Generating Activities in the Afternoon

Turning on the oven, stove or clothes dryer when the sun is at its peak significantly increases your AC unit’s workload. When possible, cook and do laundry in the evening or early morning to minimize unnecessary AC activity. When planning dinner in the summer, consider reheating leftovers in the microwave, eating unheated meals like sandwiches and salads, or barbecuing outside on the backyard grill.

9.  Run a Ceiling Fan

While a ceiling fan can’t replace an air conditioner, it can definitely work in conjunction with it. Ceiling fans create a wind chill effect that makes the room feel about 4 degrees cooler. This added comfort lets you set your thermostat to a higher temperature, reducing the workload on your AC system and potentially staving off AC problems. Just remember to turn off the fan when you walk out of the room. After all, the wind chill effect cools people, but it doesn’t lower the temperature in the room.

10. Schedule Annual AC Maintenance

Regular AC tune-ups are a proactive measure aimed at locating and fixing small issues before they turn into serious problems. A yearly check by a qualified HVAC technician prepares your air conditioner for summer, saving you from undesirable breakdowns and expensive repairs by ensuring your AC is working efficiently.

Contact Levy & Son Service Experts for Air Conditioner Service in Dallas

Now that you know the top ways to prevent AC problems, you can follow these steps to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. Whether you need to schedule a preventative tune-up or emergency AC repair, Levy & Son Service Experts has you covered. We are committed to providing comprehensive and efficient maintenance, repairs and installations to meet all your cooling needs. For reliable AC services in your area, call 469-250-0932 today to schedule an appointment with the Experts at Levy & Son Service Experts.