Florida’s hot, humid weather keeps things warm year-round. While this is nice for residents who want to avoid the chill of winter, it can put excessive strain on HVAC units that run every month of the year. Keep your air conditioner in peak condition through every season with smart strategies.
Keep Landscaping Neat
Keep shrubs, grass clippings, and leaves cleared away from the condenser unit outside your home. This will help the system get a steady flow of air and improve efficiency. Clean the condenser coil periodically with a light spray from the hose. Always turn off the power to the unit before cleaning it, and check your manufacturer’s recommendations for the proper cleaning methods. You can also improve performance by planting shade trees near the unit to keep it out of direct sunlight.
Change Your Air Filter
You should change the filter in your HVAC system approximately once a month to provide adequate air flow. Depending on your home, you may be able to extend the time between changes to as much as three months, but you shouldn’t go beyond this window, as dust and dirt will accumulate on the filter even in the cleanest home. Keep a stock of extra filters on hand, and this task will take only seconds.
Rearrange Your Furniture
Locate the vents in your home, and move furniture away from them if they’re located along the floor. A blocked air vent will make the room feel much warmer than necessary and restrict air circulation in the room.
Open the Vents
While you’re checking your vents for furniture blockages, make sure they’re all open. It’s a common misconception that closing the vents to unused rooms will improve your energy efficiency. In fact, this practice will make your system work harder than necessary and may shorten its lifespan.
With regular preventive maintenance and mindful care, you can keep your HVAC system operating efficiently in every season. For more information on improving home comfort and keeping your system in top condition, contact Climatic at (941) 758-3080.
Image provided by Shutterstock
