Top 10 Tips to Prevent Air Conditioning Problems

There’s absolutely nothing worse than dealing with a broken air conditioner during a heatwave. The first signs of an imminent breakdown may be understated—unusual noises, odd smells or reduced cooling. Before you know it, these small issues intensify into full-blown system failures. However, with a bit of forethought and regular 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 look at the air filter monthly and replace it when it gets dirty, going no more than 90 days between filter changes. A clean filter promotes smooth airflow, improves indoor air quality and enhances air conditioning efficiency. A clogged or dirty filter, on the other hand, makes your AC work overtime, which may result in breakdowns.

2.  Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Unobstructed

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

3.  Check the Condensate Drain Pan

The AC doesn’t simply cool the air—it also takes out extra humidity. This moisture collects in the condensate drain pan and then moves down the drain line. These components can get obstructed over time, causing leaks and increasing the likelihood of water damage. Routinely inspect the drain pan and line for blockages to avert these AC issues.

4.  Listen for Strange Noises or Smells

Your air conditioner typically runs with a soft, consistent hum. If you hear unusual grinding, screeching or hissing, you can be pretty sure something’s not right. Similarly, if you detect strange electrical burning smells or musty odors, it’s time to investigate. These issues can suggest various AC problems, including motor damage or mold growth, and should be addressed quickly.

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 unwind while your thermostat does the rest. Smart models are even more advanced, allowing you to check and adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere or even manage the settings with your voice.

7.  Check Your Attic Insulation

Air conditioning efficiency doesn’t just involve the unit’s mechanics. The right amount of 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 peek inside the hatch to determine if the floor is covered with a thick, even layer of insulation. If not, 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 at the hottest time of the day considerably increases your AC unit’s workload. When possible, cook and do laundry in the evening or early morning to minimize unnecessary AC activity. When brainstorming what you’re going to cook for dinner in the summer, consider reheating leftovers in the microwave, eating cool 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 conditioning system, it can certainly accentuate it. Ceiling fans generate 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 eliminating AC problems. Just remember to switch off the fan when you exit the room. That’s because 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 practical measure aimed at finding and fixing small issues before they escalate into serious problems. A yearly check by a knowledgeable HVAC technician prepares your air conditioner for summer, saving you from inconvenient breakdowns and expensive repairs by making certain your AC is working optimally.

Contact Strand Brothers Service Experts for Air Conditioner Service in Austin

Now that you know the top tips 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 routine tune-up or emergency AC repair, Strand Brothers 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 512-592-3072 today to schedule an appointment with the Experts at Strand Brothers Service Experts.