As a new homeowner, you have enough to handle without worrying about the condition of your HVAC system. Since it plays a vital role in your everyday comfort, take the time to understand how to maintain it properly, so it can provide you with years of reliable use. Here are some easy ways to care for your air conditioner.

How to Maintain Your New AC Unit

1. Replace the Filters

Ideally, air filters should be replaced every three months. Homeowners sometimes neglect to do this, which leads the air conditioner to work harder to keep your home cool. Clogged filters also inhibit airflow and may compromise indoor air quality as a result.

2. Leave Vents Open

Although it may seem like an energy-saving solution, closing vents in unused rooms is actually not effective. Instead, it signals to your AC that your desired temperature isn’t being met and drives the unit to work overtime to cool your home. Overuse may eventually cause mechanical problems. Talk to your AC technician about installing a split air conditioner if you want to save energy.

3. Program the Thermostat

Programmable thermostats offer homeowners a way to save money and maintain their air conditioning systems by preventing overuse. You can determine your preferred temperatures ahead of time and set the unit to turn on and off at specific times of the day. For example, you can set it to cycle off when you aren’t at home during the day.

4. Enhance Home Efficiency

Taking a few steps to maximize your home’s efficiency will help your air conditioner’s working capacity. Keeping the curtains closed during peak sunlight hours, for example, can prevent heat transfer and maintain a cooler environment, while sealing openings around doors and windows will minimize drafts.

5. Schedule Regular Maintenance

A major step to help your HVAC system is scheduling regular maintenance appointments. Arrange at least two per year: once before you turn the system on in the spring, and again around fall to check its performance after the long summer days. Your air conditioning contractor will also make sure there aren’t any problems brewing, and can perform the necessary repairs to prevent disastrous, costly issues later.

Part of maintaining your new home’s AC is establishing a relationship with a reliable air conditioning service. Trust the team at Windward Air Conditioning on Maui, HI, to make sure your system remains in working condition year-round. Since 1996, the family-owned company has provided maintenance, repairs, and installation of new systems. They can also upgrade your thermostat and set up a split air conditioner. Visit the company’s website to learn about their services and manufacturers, and give them a call at (808) 242-1144 to schedule a free, onsite estimate.