5 Things You Need to Know About Maintaining Your Air Conditioner

When the stifling summer heat rears its head, turning on your air conditioner probably feels like a small miracle! While you enjoy the comfortable temperature of your living space, keep in mind that keeping it that way does require some air conditioner maintenance. Here are five simple tips on increasing the life and efficiency of your air conditioner.

Check EER2 When Shopping for Air Conditioners

A good starting point for maintaining AC efficiency is knowing what to look for when shopping for a new one, and cooling technology has probably come a long way since the last time you brought home a new AC unit! To ensure you're getting an air conditioner that can deliver the coolness you need, check for a rating called the EER, or Energy Efficiency Ratio. What is EER? It's the ratio of the unit's cooling capacity to its power input. As of January 2023, air conditioners use an even more accurate EER2 rating, which is calculated with the unit working at an outdoor temperature of 95 °F, an indoor temperature of 80 °F, and 50% humidity. EER ratings range from 8 to 15, and the higher the number, the better the efficiency.

Shield Your Air Conditioners from Direct Sunlight

The sun - the reason we need air conditioners in the first place! - can really affect the output of your AC units. Having them operate while sitting in direct sunlight can reduce their efficiency by up to 10%. Sometimes the layout of your living space leaves you no choice, but if you can help it, try to install it in a window where the AC will be out of direct sun.

Do Preventative AC Maintenance by Testing for Air Leaks

When you first install a window AC , it can be difficult to seal it correctly. To see if you have an air leak around your windows, try a quick test: Light a stick of incense and hold it where the unit and window frame meet. If the smoke drifts sideways or is suddenly pulled in one direction, there's leakage. But don't worry; it's nothing a little foam, tape, or weather seal can't fix!

Change Your Air Conditioning Filter Often

While your air conditioner is cooling you off, it's also acting as an air purifier and prevents dust and debris from blowing around your home. Most units include a filter light that will illuminate after the air conditioner has been in use for a certain number of hours, reminding you that it's time to clean the filter. Next time the AC is off, remove the filter and be sure to clean it per the unit's instruction manual. This will increase the air conditioner's efficiency, decrease your energy bill, and potentially benefit your family's health.

Maximize Your Air Conditioning Efficiency Inside

Increase the life of your unit by closing blinds and shades around the unit when you're not in the room. You should also consider running floor fans or a ceiling fan to aid in cooling your space. The air conditioner won't need to work as hard, plus the fans circulate the dry air your air conditioner dehumidifies around your living space.

Today's cooling technology makes it easier than ever to stay comfortable all summer long. With these simple air conditioning maintenance tasks, you'll ensure your AC will be humming along for many summers to come!