What You Should Know About Your AC System

There it is, sitting outside on your law or in a paved, gated-in area, plain as day – your AC system’s condenser. If you were inclined to climb up into the attic, you’d find the condensing unit’s partner in cooling – the air handler.

They rely on air ducts, too, to get cool air to you, but by now you get the point. You have central air conditioning, you know what it does, you’re glad for it, and that’s that. Or is it? As in, should you know a little more, especially if it helps you take better care of it and get more for your money?

We think so and, once you’ve finished reading this blog, we’re confident you’ll agree.

Eliminate System Stress

Certain factors force your AC system to work harder to do its job. By knowing what they are, you can improve its performance and potentially save a bunch of money on repairs you might otherwise need.

• Most AC units are built to cool the air 20 degrees. If it’s 90 degrees outside, your air conditioner can comfortably cool your house to 70. But going from 100 to 70? That may be asking too much. By having your system cleaned and inspected each year, we can tell you if it’s showing signs of extra wear and tear.
• Leaving shades and drapes open during the day on sun-facing windows is kind of like asking a marathon runner to run backwards. As in, all you’re doing is making the task more difficult. Keep window treatments closed and your system will reward you with greater and longer-last performance.
• The way your home is REALLY cooled is by getting hot air outdoors. The process is aided enormously when you do nothing to block the flow of air through return registers. You also want the outside condensing unit to remain obstruction free.
• Anyone who tells you to close inside doors to rooms you’re not using so you can save a few bucks on cooling your home should be removed from your Christmas card list – okay, nothing that drastic is required, just know that it’s a bad idea. The more freely air can circulate, the less stress your system will incur.

Schedule Preventive Maintenance

The “stress” tips we’ve just shared are all about leaving your system be to do its job. But that’s not the only secret to its success. Equally important is annual system maintenance so the indoor comfort specialists at Correct Temp can keep an eye on things and ensure that it’s all working properly. On your own, also make a point to clean or replace your filter as needed – once a month is a good place to start.

If it’s been a year or longer since your AC system was last cleaned and inspected, contact Correct Temp today.