The fall season brings Georgia football, apple picking, hayrides, and backyard barbecues. It also means hot temperatures will linger for a while longer, requiring an AC unit in excellent working order. Keeping it working well and saving you money requires just a bit of work that will pay off for years.
In 2018, the average high temperature near Athens, GA, in September was 90 degrees. Make sure you beat the heat this fall with an air-conditioning unit that is in tip-top shape. Here are a couple of things you can do to ensure your AC unit is ready for whatever heat or humidity comes your way.
Replace Old Air Filters
Air-conditioning units have filters that remove airborne dirt, dust, and debris. These filters provide homeowners with cleaner quality air. Over time, though, the screen will decrease in efficiency as the build-up of debris starts to block the airflow.
When to replace your air filter depends on the type you have and personal preferences. For instance, if you have a pleated filter, pets, or young children, you should replace it every two to three months. If you have a cheap fiberglass model or have allergies, replace it every four to six weeks.
Clean Your AC Unit
Sure, cleaning your air-conditioning system is not the sexiest task, but it is essential if you want it to function well for years. Even taking 10 minutes to clean the blades and rinse off bugs or dirt can make a significant difference. Every layer of grime you remove makes it easier for your AC unit to do its job well.
We recommend grabbing a refrigerator condenser coil brush and coil-cleaner solution. The tapered shape makes it an ideal option when cleaning hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, proactive maintenance will minimize any chances of system failure during the fall.
Add Insulation
If you haven’t done so already, cover any exposed pipes with foam pipe covering. (That does not include the small copper wires.) Adding foam covering insulates the pipes from low overnight temperatures that could otherwise lead to condensation and water damage.
Foam pipe covering is a snap to install, and it blocks both heat loss and gain. All you need is the covering, scissors, and duct tape. Best of all, you can leave the foam in place for protection all year.
Upgrade Your AC Unit
Upgrading your air conditioning unit now will pay dividends in the future. Not only will you be able to enjoy climate-controlled weather all-year, but also you will reduce your energy bills. Large HVAC systems can save homeowners between $1,271 and $6,225 over the lifetime of the unit.
Air-conditioning units are more efficient than ever. Investing in one will yield better air quality, a quieter home, and even minimize your carbon footprint. ENERGY STAR models can be as much 15 percent more efficient than standard HVAC systems, which means a better living environment for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your AC unit for fall can take as little time as would making a cup of coffee. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get to prepping your system today.