A well-functioning air conditioner unit is no luxury when the Austin temperature starts to soar. Many homeowners unknowingly make some AC mistakes that compromise its usage when they need it the most. To help you stay cool in summer and extend the AC lifespan, here is a compilation of the most common AC mistakes to avoid and how professional HVAC services in Austin can help.
10 Common AC Mistakes to Avoid in Austin
Austin’s scorching summer often exceeds 100°F. The high humidity makes the air feel even hotter than it actually is. People often run their AC nonstop, but forget that it also needs care to continue its performance.
Here’s a list of ten common AC mistakes you are probably making that you should avoid to get uninterrupted performance:
1. Skipping Regular Maintenance
It is one of the most common mistakes. Maintenance feels like a chore to most users in their everyday busy lives. The unit runs seemingly fine most of the time, right?
But in reality, many problems go unnoticed if you don’t do checkups. You may notice sudden breakdowns and wonder what went wrong.
It is advisable to opt for an annual maintenance plan with a trusted HVAC provider like HVAC Express. A professional HVAC technician goes through every detail during routine maintenance. If they find any issues, those get fixed on the spot.
2. Setting the Thermostat Too Low
Summer heat tempts us all to crank the thermostat down as much as possible. But lowering it a lot makes the system work harder. It doesn’t cool faster, just makes the room cool more at its own pace.
That means more wear and tear with no actual benefits (except if you want to cool more, which is unnecessary in most cases).
Set the thermostat to a reasonable temperature instead, around 78°F. And if you want better efficiency, you can consider installing a programmable thermostat.
3. Ignoring Air Filter Replacements
Yet another simple, ignorable task that can have major consequences. Clogged AC filters restrict free airflow. As a result, the unit overworks to push air, and the quality of air drops significantly.
Consider changing disposable HVAC filters or cleaning the reusable filters monthly. This will ensure that the filter remains clean and the IAQ is in good condition.
4. Blocking Vents and Registers
Obstructions of registers disrupt the airflow. Furniture is a common thing that people place that obstructs the register. Nevertheless, it creates a pressure imbalance and strain on the unit.
You must ensure all vents are unobstructed and open. And for better zoning, consider consulting an HVAC expert.
5. Running the AC with Leaky Ducts
Many homeowners keep using the cooling system even when they have a leaky or poorly insulated duct. A leaky duct system sometimes wastes up to 20-30% of treated air. With this loss of air, an air conditioner has to run longer, which increases the operating cost.
The most effective solution to this issue is conducting professional inspections and sealing the HVAC ducts. HVAC Express offers duct sealing and duct testing to our clients in Austin.
6. Using the Wrong-Sized AC Unit
Selecting the proper size is the most important decision when you pick an AC for your space.
An oversized AC cools quickly, leading to short cycling. Again, if you install an undersized AC unit, it will struggle to keep up and won’t be able to cool your space.
That’s why, before installing a unit, you’ll have to make sure that you consult an HVAC contractor for a proper load calculation.
7. Neglecting the Outdoor Unit
The condenser unit needs proper airflow to function efficiently. Debris, overgrown plants, and a lack of shade hinder this airflow the most.
Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around your outdoor unit so that the airflow is unrestricted. Also, don’t forget to clean leaves and debris regularly.
8. Forgetting About Insulation
Poor insulation allows the cool air to escape from your space. The lack of air makes your cooling system run longer. As soon as you notice this issue, upgrade the insulation and seal the gaps around doors and windows.
Energy audits help identify the problem areas. If you find your bills are getting unusually high, get an audit to find the issue.
9. Delaying Repairs
Many homeowners delay the AC repairs even when they are facing issues such as:
- Weak airflow
- Abnormal noises
- Rising cooling costs
Sometimes the air conditioner can continue to operate with minor issues (not without its problems). However, when you ignore these major issues, they can lead to a system breakdown and costly repairs.
At the first sign of AC trouble, you’ll have to make sure that you call an HVAC expert and start the repair or replacement process as early as possible.
10. DIY Fixes Without Proper Knowledge
You can attempt some minor issues on your own, like changing or cleaning the HVAC filter. But complex air conditioner repairs need professional supervision. Otherwise, it can cause further damage.
Sometimes, DIY attempts can void the AC warranty of many manufacturers. This is why it is advisable to hire certified technicians for refrigerant handling, installations, and electrical repairs.
Conclusion
By avoiding these common air conditioning mistakes, you can save money and improve the overall comfort of your space. Besides, it will help you extend the system’s lifespan. For top-quality HVAC repairs, installation, and maintenance, contact HVAC Express. We have a team of dedicated professionals who are ready to assist you with any HVAC needs.
