Using your air conditioning safely involves both things you need to do and things you need to avoid. Your AC system not only brings cool air into your home but adds an extra layer of comfort by lowering the humidity. Here are some tips to follow when it comes to operating your air conditioning.
Make Sure the Condenser Unit Is Covered
Your air conditioning condenser is full of moving parts and electrical wiring, and it’s important that you keep access panels shut. You should also make sure that children and pets stay well away from the condenser unit. Some home and business owners fence in their condenser. This is not only a safety precaution, but it also protects against vandalism, keeps shrubbery and other plants from growing too near, and even dampens the sound of the unit as it works.
Keep Vents Clear
Make sure that the return and supply vents that connect to your central air conditioning are clear. Obstructions such as furniture, luggage, boxes, or packages can make your air conditioning system struggle by causing it to work harder than it should. This leads to spikes in your energy bills and even damage to the compressor. The vents should also be cleaned regularly. If dust and debris are allowed to accumulate, they can worsen conditions for those with asthma, allergies, and other respiratory problems.
Change or Clean the Filter Regularly
Clean filters are a must for any kind of air conditioning system. A filter that’s truly filthy with dust and other debris not only makes the AC work harder but also spreads pollutants and allergens into the air and can even become a fire hazard. At a minimum, AC filters need to be changed or cleaned every three months. Ideally, they should be changed every month. If your AC is on nearly around the clock for the entire summer, filters may need to be changed even more frequently.
Schedule Regular Maintenance Calls
Of course, the best way to run your air conditioning safely is to have HVAC specialists regularly check and troubleshoot it. This way, safety problems that a layperson might not even notice can be quickly and effectively fixed. If you suspect that there’s a problem with your air conditioning system that’s not quite as simple as changing the filter or clearing leaves from around the compressor, don’t try and fix it yourself. Reach out to a professional.
Call Us to Learn More About Air Conditioner Safety
Your air conditioner makes your life bearable during the hot summers, and there are ways to keep you safe and your AC in good working order. To learn more about air conditioner safety or to set up an appointment in Central GA and the FL Panhandle for AC maintenance or repair, give our experts a call at We Care Heating & Air Conditioning.
