Homeowners can be caught off guard when their HVAC system quits, calling for an A/C replacement. However, you can put off needing a new air conditioner by taking great care of your current system. Here are four tips for keeping your appliance in great shape to help extend its lifespan.

How to Increase the Lifespan of Your Air Conditioner

1. Get Yearly Tune-ups

Don’t wait until your HVAC acts up to have an expert inspect the system. Schedule a yearly tune-up to keep it running efficiently. An annual appointment will also help uncover any problems, so you can fix them before they become more serious. Regular appointments will keep the appliance in top shape, putting off the unexpected need for an A/C replacement. 

2. Clean the House Regularly

Homes with poor air quality will cause HVAC systems to slow down, requiring more power to operate efficiently. Contaminants like dust, pet fur, dander, and pollen can make its way into the air intake, clogging the ducts. This buildup causes the system to work overtime to output cold air. 

Sweep, mop, and vacuum your home once or twice a week to keep it clean. Get an annual or bi-annual professional carpet cleaning to remove dirt and dust from deep in the fibers. Regularly dusting surfaces and laundering curtains and slipcovers will also help improve air quality and keep your unit clog-free. Replace the system’s air filter every two months and schedule an annual duct cleaning to further improve your indoor air.

3. Weatherproof Doors & Windows

Air can move between the inside and outside of a home around windows and doors. If these vulnerable areas aren’t sealed correctly, your HVAC will have to work harder to keep up and may fail years before its expected lifespan. 

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends applying caulk and weatherstrips to windows to prevent air leaks. Caulk around ducts, vents, and plumbing outlets that sit between the inside and outside of your home. Add flexible weatherstripping around the inside of exterior doors to keep cool air inside in the summer and hot air inside during the winter. 

4. Rely on Fans

Ceiling fans rely on the windchill effect to promote air circulation to make you feel cooler. Install ceiling fans in the bedrooms and kitchen of your home, so you can turn the air conditioning down a few degrees while still feeling comfortable. Using the HVAC less will increase its lifespan and reduce your need for A/C replacement.

If you need an A/C replacement, schedule an installation with the trusted professionals at Malone Heating & Air in Chattanooga, TN. These HVAC experts are licensed and insured and offer speedy repairs and maintenance. Call (706) 259-9333 to speak with a representative. Visit them online to learn more about their free quotes, Wells Fargo financing options, and promotions.