Introduction:
We will soon be faced by the scorching heat as summer takes center stage, and our reliable air conditioners come to the rescue and our trusty air conditioners become our best friends, as they provide the much-needed relief from the sweltering temperatures.
However, despite their essential role in keeping us cool, many people unknowingly make mistakes that can hinder the performance and efficiency of their air conditioning units. In this blog post, we will delve into seven significant air conditioner mistakes to avoid, ensuring your AC functions optimally and provide expert tips on how to steer clear of these pitfalls, while also addressing some popular queries around these mistakes.
I will also be showing various parts of the air conditioner, because quite frankly, when I started of in the industry, I would here people referring to air filters, and I had no idea what they actually looked like, and where to find them.
So let’s delve right in!
1. Neglecting Regular Maintenance:
I cannot stress the importance of regular maintenance enough. One of the most common mistakes is neglecting regular maintenance for your air conditioner. Just like any other appliance, AC units require periodic check-ups to ensure they are in top working condition. Without proper maintenance, dust and debris can clog the filters and reduce airflow, leading to decreased cooling efficiency.
The neglect of this regular maintenance to parts like the filter’s, coils, and fins, will undoubtedly lead to a steady decline in your air conditioners performance, while steadily increasing the energy costs
This leads to a very popular question on every bodies lips of “How often should I service my air conditioner?” I address this very question amongst others in my previous blog, but although I suggest once a year for our homes, and bi-annually for offices, I personally like to service my A/C at home twice a year. Just before the cold winter months, and again just before summer. (By doing this, I’m assured of comfort all year round)
2. Ignoring Filter Replacements:
Air conditioner filters are crucial in trapping dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, ensuring you breathe clean, fresh air. Failing to replace or clean these filters regularly can lead to poor indoor air quality and put unnecessary strain on your AC unit. Refer to your manufacturer’s guidelines for the appropriate filter replacement schedule, usually recommended every one to three months.
Here is an image of air filter’s showing a duty air filter on the left, with the clean air filter on the right. The image not only shows you what a air filter looks like, but it very clearly shows us how much dust clogs up in a very short space of time, with the result that airflow is obstructed, reducing the units efficiency and putting strain on the unit.
The question here is “Can I clean air conditioner filters myself?” Absolutely, if you are a DIY handyman, you will find the filter’s behind the indoor AC panel. You just need to remove the front panel and then remove the filters, you can clean them by yourself with a wet-dry vacuum, soft cleaning cloth, mild detergent, and warm water, remembering that this is one of the very basic tasks of servicing your AC, and that you may still need a qualified technician to perform the more complex servicing issues.
3. Setting the Thermostat Too Low:
On sweltering days, it’s tempting to set the thermostat at the lowest possible temperature to cool down quickly. However, this practice wastes energy and puts unnecessary stress on your air conditioner. Keep your thermostat set at a reasonable temperature, ideally around 72-78°F (22-26°C), for optimal comfort and energy efficiency.
The thermostat is one of the most critical components of any AC unit. The thermostat can dramatically affect the output of the unit as a whole. A faulty thermostat has been known to cause the air conditioner to start and then stop after some time — a phenomenon known as short cycling. If this is occurring with your AC unit, it might be because after the AC starts, the thermostat has a reading error and detects an okay level of coolness, which may cause it to immediately shut back off.
In future blogs, we will answer questions like “What is the best temperature to set my air conditioner?” but you can always refer to the owners manual, that you received when installing the unit originally. Alternatively, SOS Air Conditioning is always just a phone call away.
4. Leaving Windows and Doors Open:
Leaving windows and doors open while the AC is running is a counterproductive mistake. This allows warm air from outside to enter your home, making your air conditioner work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Ensure all windows and doors are closed properly to maximize cooling efficiency.
5. Blocking Air Vents:
Blocked air vents obstruct the airflow, making your air conditioner less effective in cooling your home. Furniture, curtains, or other objects placed near the vents can disrupt the airflow and lead to uneven cooling. Keep the area around your air vents clear to allow for proper air circulation.
You may then be wondering, “What should I do if my air conditioner is not cooling evenly?” If your air vents are not blocking the AC airflow, and the circulation remains uneven, it my be a good time to call SOS Air Conditioning, so that we can arrange for our technicians to come out to site.
6. Neglecting Home Insulation:
Inadequate insulation can lead to significant energy wastage as cool air escapes, forcing your AC to work harder. Ensure your home is properly insulated to maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature while optimizing your air conditioner’s efficiency.
Home Insulation has a significant impact on air conditioning in the home, Insulation is a material that slows or prevents the flow of heat and is a key part of any passive designed home, helping to keep heat inside the home in winter and outside the home in summer.
It is important that you also choose the right size air conditioner for the area you wish to cool or heat. (It is important to check whether you have purchased the right size air conditioner for your specific area.)
If you need any advice please don’t hesitate to call me directly Sonia at our office (082 305 7612), or send me an email with your query to info@sosairconsystems.co.za and I’ll get back to you ASAP.
7. Running the AC 24/7:
Leaving your air conditioner running all day and night, even when you’re not at home, is a wasteful mistake. Invest in a programmable thermostat to schedule cooling based on your daily routines. Turning off the AC when it’s not needed can save energy and reduce your utility bills.
It is advisable to turn off your air conditioner when you are not at home. If you have a Wi-Fi enabled unit, you can always choose to put the unit on while on your way home or to the office always ensuring you of arriving to your comfortable destination.
Conclusion:
By avoiding these seven big air conditioner mistakes, you can ensure your cooling system runs smoothly, efficiently, and cost-effectively throughout the summer months. Regular maintenance, proper use of the thermostat, and mindful habits can go a long way in keeping you comfortable while also reducing your carbon footprint. Remember, a well-maintained AC not only provides refreshing air but also contributes to a greener planet.
Stay cool and enjoy the summer!
Regards
Sonia
Email: info@sosairconsystems.co.za
Website: www.sosairconsystems.co.za