It’s August, which means the end of summer is still more than a month away and your air conditioner has already undergone a great deal of stress. If you have concerns that your AC system might break down before the cool weather arrives in fall, there are a number steps you can take that will help. Some are simple, others more complex. Let’s take a look at a few of them.
- Replace the System: If the reason that you’re worried about the air conditioner failing is because it’s extremely old and prone to malfunctions, then the best option is to have it replaced before its final breakdown. Arranging a schedule for the replacement on your own time is much better than scrambling to have the replacement done as an emergency service! You’ll be able to take some extra time to make the best choice possible for the new unit.
- Raise the thermostat settings: To avoid putting additional stress on the compressor in the air conditioner, place the thermostat setting as high as you find comfortable. We suggest setting it at 78°F during the day, then increasing it by 8°F at night. It’s even easier if you have a multi-day programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat to help automate the temperatures for the maximum relief for the air conditioner.
- Clean or replace the air filter: If you haven’t cleaned or replaced the HVAC filter yet this month, you almost certainly need to do it now. If this filter becomes clogged, it will hamper the air conditioner’s operation and place extra strain on it.
- Schedule repairs for anything that seems wrong: No matter how small the problem in your AC may seem to you (water dripping from the cabinet, clicking sounds, etc.) any potential issue with your air conditioner can quickly balloon into a major malfunction if it’s not addressed. Call repair technicians at your earliest opportunity, and they’ll take a look at the system to find out what repairs will get it through the rest of summer.
Since 1988, Malek Heating & Cooling has served Evanston, IL and all of the Chicagoland area with excellent air conditioning.