No matter what’s happening in the world, nothing’s going to stop the heat from rolling into Richmond. If you’ve lived here any length of time, you’ll know that a well-functioning cooling system is a necessity. That’s why we’ve put together this list of common air conditioner mistakes to avoid this summer.
Unfortunately, many of us know the unique struggle of trying to stay cool in Virginia. The humidity makes things even worse! Be proactive and get ahead of the upcoming weather. Read over the following to help you get started.
Not Changing the Filter
At the bare minimum, you should be changing your HVAC’s air filter every three months. In Virginia, though, it’s much better to swap it out monthly. This is because your AC unit will be running all the time during the summer, so combined with our intense allergy season, it will be working extra hard.
It’s even more important to change your air filters if you have pets, a large family, or live with someone who suffers from asthma or allergies. In addition to impacting performance, a dirty filter could actually increase your energy costs by 5-15% every month!
Ignoring Red Flags
Life can get pretty busy, so we understand that calling in a technician isn’t the most convenient thing to do. That being said, when you ignore warning signs that something is wrong with your cooling system, you risk damaging the unit.
It’s also worth mentioning that, when you address problems proactively, the repairs tend to be more affordable. Don’t wait till your air conditioner breaks down on the hottest day of summer to call in for costly emergency repairs. Investigate as soon as you notice an issue.
Not Having the Right Size
There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to cooling systems. In fact, buying the right one depends highly on the type of dwelling, size of your home, and other factors. If you don’t take all of those things into consideration, you could end up with a unit that’s too big or too small.
Before choosing a model, consult with a professional who can provide the right kind of guidance. Even if you’ve purchased a new construction, it’s important to look at your HVAC’s capacity to ensure your home has been properly fitted.
Adjusting the Thermostat
When it gets really hot, it’s normal to adjust the thermostat to cool things down. There are two main problems with that: we may turn it down much lower than necessary and we could forget to return it to a reasonable setting.
The best way to avoid this problem entirely is to install a programmable thermostat. This will allow you to maintain a consistent temperature in your home without even having to even think about it. This will help prevent your HVAC from working overtime, which could protect against breakdowns and save you money on energy costs.
Skipping Regular Maintenance
We tend to take our cooling systems for granted, until something goes wrong. The reality is that between the indoor and outdoor units, it’s a really intricate system. There are many different components that need to work together to get the job done.
A trained technician will be able to identify potential issues before becoming big problems. They can perform necessary cleanings or repairs during the inspection, as well. By scheduling this vital, regular maintenance, you can help extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
Air Conditioning Repair in Richmond, Virginia
We know that the cost of installing or repairing a cooling system is a major investment for homeowners. After more than 75 years of serving the Greater Richmond Region, we also understand why so many try to avoid that expense. For that reason, W.G. Speeks offers a no-risk, free consultation. We want you to be comfortable with our recommendations and service before you hire us.
If experience has taught us anything, it’s that regular maintenance and addressing issues as they arise are the most effective ways to prevent emergency repairs and breakdowns. The old saying is true: an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure.
The technicians at W.G. Speeks are NATE-certified and can offer guidance on how to keep your air conditioning running smoothly and efficiently all through Virginia’s hot summer season. We love our community and we’re proud to serve you. Need air conditioner help? Give us a call today!
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