4 Air Conditioning Mistakes All Homeowners Should Avoid

Anyone who lives in a hot climate knows that air conditioning is essential during the hot summer months. But while many people regularly use their air conditioner, some homeowners don't know how to properly take care of theirs. If you want your air conditioner to run efficiently and last for as long as possible, you will need to put in a little bit of effort. Continue reading to learn more about the top air conditioning mistakes to avoid:

Not Changing the Air Filter

Swapping out an old air filter for a new one is literally one of the easiest ways to care for your air conditioner. But many people forget about their air filter for long periods of time, which allows dust and debris to build up. When your air filter is clogged, your air conditioner has to work much harder to force cool air into your home. Make sure you check your air filter regularly and replace it when needed.

Neglecting Regular Professional Maintenance

An HVAC unit is not something that the vast majority of homeowners can maintain by themselves. HVAC technicians have special training and skills that allow them to work on air conditioning units. An air conditioner is designed to last for many years, but if you want to get the most out of your unit, you need to schedule regular maintenance with a reputable HVAC company. Doing so will give you the peace of mind of knowing that your air conditioner is ready for summer.

Cooling Down an Empty House

When no one is home, there is no reason to run your air conditioner and cool down an empty house. Before you leave for the day, make sure to adjust the thermostat so your air conditioner doesn't run needlessly. If you want more control over the temperature in your home, consider installing a programmable thermostat. This type of thermostat will allow you to set a certain temperature for daytime hours and different temperature for the time you arrive home.

Failing to Shade Your Air Conditioning Unit

If your air conditioning unit is in an area of your yard that receives full sun during the afternoon, it is in your best interest to shade it. Providing shade for your air conditioning unit will help keep it cool so it will not have to work as hard to create cold air. Simply planting some tall shrubs or a few trees in the vicinity of your air conditioning unit can prevent a lot of unneeded wear and tear.