From Guest Blogger Lizzie Weakly: How to Optimize Your HVAC System for Maximum Home Energy Efficiency

Now that the warmer months are here, it’s not enough to have an air conditioning unit. Air conditioners need special maintenance to ensure they’re running at optimal levels and to ensure that cooling costs stay at a minimal amount. The home’s HVAC needs to be maintained to ensure proper heating, ventilation and cooling. Consider these tips.

Cleaning

Several things need to be cleaned in an air conditioning unit to make sure it is running efficiently. For instance, the air ducts need to be cleaned to allow for proper air flow and improve air quality. Anything that can block air flow in an air conditioning unit will cause the unit to work harder. As an air conditioning unit works harder, more electricity is used as a result. Other items, such as the air conditioner’s condensing coils and filters need to be cleaned as well.

Removing Obstructions

Debris found around air conditioners needs to be removed. This could be pet hair; however, air conditioning units that are located outside could have leaves and other debris that can cause blockages. Make sure there is nothing surrounding the air conditioning unit, such as weeds, bags and anything that could cause a blockage. Drains need to be cleared as well to prevent excessive humidity in the home.

Maintenance

Coil fins need to be regularly straightened out to prevent the blockage of air flow. Special combs can be used to accomplish this; however, professionals typically can perform this task easily. Coil fins may need to be replaced if they are broken or are severely bent. Refrigerant also needs to be replaced. It’s best to check this amount yearly. Thermostats, oil motors, electric terminals and belts need to be checked for proper maintenance, but it’s best to contact a company like Air Control Heating & Electric, Inc. to obtain professional maintenance.

Do what’s possible to maintain your HVAC system, such as regular cleaning, but hire professionals when it requires disassembling the air conditioning unit or dealing with electrical terminals. Your air conditioning unit is valuable. While it’s prudent to save money where possible, hiring professionals can keep it from permanently malfunctioning and spending more money to replace it. Consider keeping your air conditioning unit in the shade as well to increase efficiency. It is a common recommendation, but there are a surprising amount of air conditioning units that are not guarded from the sun. Following these simple maintenance options will help to reduce costs by as much 30 percent.