Even though Ontario is known for its cold winters, temperatures can get drastically warmer in the summer, making air conditioners particularly important for residents of Hamilton at this time of year. However, elevated temperatures can put a lot of strain on cooling systems, often affecting their performance and durability. In this blog, we are sharing valuable information on how you can extend the lifecycle of your air conditioner so that you can keep your home comfortable in Hamilton for many years to come. Let’s delve into it.
What Maintenance Tips Can Extend My AC’s Life?
· Regular Inspections
One of the most important things to do to make sure you can extend the durability of your air conditioner is scheduling regular inspections. An experienced HVAC technician will be able to spot small issues before they become more complex problems. This is fundamental to keeping important parts such as compressors, coils and blowers in optimal condition, which is crucial for proper maintenance and, consequently, an enhanced life cycle.
· Clean or Replace Filters Regularly
This is one of the most important, and yet, often overlooked maintenance tips for AC units. Most HVAC systems, including air conditioners, are equipped with filters that prevent airborne particles such as dust, allergens and debris from getting into the ducts and damaging important parts of the system. However, after long periods of extensive use, these filters can get extremely dirty and prevent air from circulating inside the unit. This obstruction forces the system to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption, reduced performance, and a shorter lifespan for the unit. Ideally, you should have your system filters cleaned or replaced once every 3 months.
· Don’t Ignore Signs of Problems
Oftentimes, air conditioners will give you signs if something is wrong with the unit. Strange noises, reduced performance, or uneven cooling generally tell you that you may be dealing with a faulty system. The best thing to do in such cases is to address the problem promptly. Ignoring such issues may lead to damage to important parts of your system resulting in more expensive repairs and potentially shortening the overall lifespan of your unit. Make sure to call a professional as soon as you spot anything unusual with your cooling system.
· Avoid Extensive Usage
While it may be easier said than done, it's important to avoid overusing your air conditioner during hot summer days. An effective tip is to avoid programming your unit for temperatures that are much lower than the outside weather. Instead of setting up the thermostat to 16 degrees Celsius on a 35-degree summer day, try to keep your system at 25 degrees Celsius. This will ensure a comfortable environment for you and your family without putting too much strain on your system’s parts. This strategy can greatly contribute to the durability of AC units and even help you save on utility bills.
· Keep Ducts Clean
Dirty or clogged ducts can significantly impact the performance of your air conditioner, which may cause your system to work harder and push its internal parts to their limits. Make sure to have all the ducts in your AC unit inspected by a professional to keep your system working at peak performance and prevent issues that can affect its durability.
· Check for Leaks Regularly
There are many issues that may cause an AC unit to leak, including frozen evaporator coils, dirty air filters, low refrigerant levels and more. Regardless of the cause, leaks should always be addressed promptly as they can cause your system to run inefficiently, which may impact the life of your air conditioner. Make sure you inspect your system regularly and ask for the help of experienced professionals in case any leak is spotted.
Other Ways of Improving Your AC’s Efficiency
As well as keeping your air conditioner well maintained, you can try other strategies to enhance your unit's durability. Let’s have a look at some examples:
· Ensure Proper Airflow Inside Your Property
Blocked vents and registers will prevent your air conditioner from blowing cooled air into your home, which not only affects performance and comfort but also puts excessive strain on your system’s parts. Make sure to keep curtains, furniture and any other types of obstructions away from your unit's vents to allow proper airflow and prevent mechanical issues. This will ensure your system works under regular conditions, increasing its lifespan and improving temperature control.
· Upgrade Your Home Insulation
Another great way of enhancing your system’s durability is by upgrading your home insulation. A well-insulated home will prevent the cooled air provided by your air conditioner from escaping, while also preventing the warm air from outside from getting into your space. This is particularly important during the summer when homeowners mostly rely on cooling systems to cope with hot temperatures during the day. The better your insulation, the less your air conditioner will have to run to keep your home comfortable. It is safe to say, then, that home insulation can help you increase the life of your AC units.
· Invest in High Efficiency HVAC Systems
In the heating and cooling industry, high-efficiency HVAC systems are known for their advanced engineering. These systems are designed to provide the same level of comfort as traditional units while focusing on efficiency and energy consumption. As a result, they tend to be easier to maintain and require fewer repair services compared to conventional systems, making them a more durable solution than outdated air conditioners. If you suspect that your cooling system is at the end of its lifecycle, upgrading to a high-efficiency unit could offer the durability and performance you need.
· Count on Experienced Professionals
When it comes to AC installation, maintenance and repair, counting on experienced and highly trained professionals is fundamental. Skilled technicians will have the necessary expertise to spot and tackle any issues accurately and effectively, which contributes to the overall performance of your system, ensuring it can provide you with a cool and comfortable environment for long periods of time.
Your Choice for High-quality Air Conditioner Solutions in Hamilton
Looking for efficient air conditioner Hamilton products and services? Aire One Heating and Cooling is here for you. Whether you are looking for installation, maintenance or repair services, we can provide you with the solution you need to cope with Hamilton’s hot and humid summer days. Don’t hesitate to give us a call and let us provide you with the comfort you deserve. Reach out to us.