The last thing you want on a hot, humid summer day is for your air conditioning to breakdown or fail on you. While no mechanical device lasts forever, following these tips can increase the life of your system and help you avoid breakdowns.

9 Ways to Make Sure Your AC Doesn’t Breakdown

Maintain a Clean Air Filter

Whether you have window air conditioners or a whole-house central air system, it will contain an air filter and keeping that clean is essential. Dirty air filters make the system work harder because air doesn’t circulate as well. Replacing or cleaning your air filter – depending upon the type – once a month will cool your house faster and easier. Check out DoItYourself’s article to learn how to properly clean your air conditioner’s air filter.

Clean The Coils

If you can access the condenser coils of your cooling system, wipe them down as well. As with the air filter, clean coils mean a more efficient system. Cleaning or getting your air conditioner’s coils cleaned at least once a year is recommended. This can save you money as your system will work more effectively to cool your living space. Additionally, this important maintenance task will help extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

Always Have an Annual Tune-Up

Just like you take your car in for regular service and inspections, a yearly maintenance appointment will make all the difference in the life of your cooling system. In addition to inspecting the system, routine maintenance will be performed to ensure you start the season right. The old adage about an ounce of prevention being worth more than a pound of cure has lasted for a reason – it’s correct.

Look for Water Leaks

Cooling systems have condensation lines to drain off water generated as humidity is removed from the air. A clogged line is a common cause of system failure. Also, improper drainage, as can happen when the house or a window sill containing an air conditioner settles, shifting the angle, can lead to wet walls, shingles, floors, etc.

Keep the Air Vents Open

Even though it might seem counter-intuitive, closing the air vents makes your system work harder, not easier. Keeping them open and clear of blockages is essential for proper cooling system operation.

Clear Debris

Similarly, make sure the outer portion of the air vents are free of branches, debris, and neglect. Cut the grass around it and check for hindrances. Keep the grass, trees, and shrubs around your AC unit trimmed.

Call Sooner If There’s an Issue

If you think there is a problem, trust your instinct and call the professionals at Tragar. A small problem can turn into a total system failure if neglected.

Don’t Overwork It

It’s easier to keep a house cool when you keep it at a moderate temperature than to turn it off entirely because then it has to overcome intense heat that can build up in the meantime. A programmable thermostat can help with that.

Ductwork Insulation

While technically not something that prevents breakdowns, insulating duct-work means less energy loss so your system runs more efficiently and less often. This decreases wear and tear, and helps extend the lifetime of your air conditioner.

Let Tragar Keep You Cool

Let Tragar help you stay cool this summer by keeping your cooling system well maintained. An ounce of prevention saves headaches and higher repair costs later. Tragar and our HVAC experts take care of it. Contact us today.