Your air conditioner plays a vital role in keeping your home cool and comfortable, so it’s essential to know how to care for it. From filters to maintenance, understanding how your HVAC equipment works and what you should do to upkeep it will help it function at peak performance.

Below are a few of the most important tasks every homeowner should do to care for their air conditioning systems:

Change the Air Filters

Swapping out your AC’s air filters is one the most important steps you can take to maintain your HVAC system. Especially during times of peak use, these filters quickly become saturated with dust and dirt, making it difficult for air to flow and operate efficiently. For the best results, change your air filters once per month during the summer.

Keep the Compressor Clear

Homes with central AC have an external compressor and condenser unit that’s located outside of the house. This equipment functions best when there are about two feet of clear space around it in all directions. That’s why it’s essential to clear away any debris, like dried leaves or branches, and to remove any shrubs or bushes planted nearby.

Use a Thermostat With a Timer

Running your home’s air conditioner around the clock, even when you’re not there, puts a strain on the equipment and wastes energy. Purchasing a programmable thermostat lets you set a timer that turns your AC on only during the times when you’re home. As a result, your cooling system will be more energy efficient, helping you to save money on your monthly utility bills.

Be Mindful of Insulation

If you have central air in your home, it’s important to ensure the duct work transporting it throughout your house is properly insulated. Otherwise, the air may not stay as cold, and your HVAC system will have to work harder to keep your home comfortable.

Provide Regular Maintenance

Just like cars need regular oil-changes, your air conditioning system requires routine maintenance. Hiring a qualified air conditioning contractor to inspect and care for your cooling system will extend its lifespan and help you avoid costly AC repair or replacement.

If you need help maintaining your air conditioner, contact Air Pro Heating & Air in Canton, GA, today. Their team of knowledgeable and experienced technicians have been providing top-notch HVAC services to homeowners throughout Bartow County for over 27 years. Visit their website to learn more about what they offer, or call (770) 386-5603 to schedule a service request.