Your air conditioner is ancient, but you’re not ready to replace it just yet. The good news is that you may be able to squeeze a few more years out of the unit by giving it and your Roselle home proper care.
Below, learn how to make an old air conditioner work better with tips from our HVAC experts. If your air conditioner stops working entirely, call us to schedule an AC repair in Roselle, IL.
How To Improve Your Old Air Conditioner’s Performance in Roselle, IL
Most air conditioners last for about 15 to 20 years before they start exhibiting major problems. How can you know if your cooling system needs a performance boost? Look for these signs:
- The system runs constantly but never seems to reach the temperature you set on the thermostat.
- The air conditioner keeps turning on and off. This is called short cycling, an issue that can cause serious wear and tear to the unit.
- Your energy bills are increasing even though you’re not using the air conditioner more than usual.
If you notice any of these signs and want to learn how to enhance cooling effectiveness, try these tips to improve AC efficiency:
Replace the Air Filter
Can’t remember the last time you changed your air filter? If it’s been several months or even over a year, replacing the filter could score you a serious increase in efficiency. A dirty filter causes your unit to work harder, and debris can cause a reduction in airflow throughout your home.
Your filter needs changing every three to 12 months, depending on its filtration level and size. Changing the air filter requires only a few steps, but if you aren’t comfortable doing it, call us for help.
Unblock and Vacuum Vents
This tip ties into the one above about replacing your air filter. Neglect the filter for long enough, and debris such as dust, pollen, and pet dander can build up in your ductwork. Should that happen, cooled air won’t make it through your home, and the air conditioner will keep trying to cool your home in response, causing it to run nonstop.
Look for your vents either near the ceiling or the floor. Once you’ve found them, clean out any debris you can reach using a vacuum. If the air conditioner still suffers from poor performance after cleaning the ducts, you might need to schedule full ductwork cleaning from a professional to boost AC performance.
Clean and Shade Your Outdoor AC Unit
Want to know how to make an old air conditioner work better? Don’t neglect your outdoor unit.
Your outdoor unit is constantly exposed to the elements, and over time, debris can build up on the coils, causing poor efficiency. To prevent this, trim back nearby plants, remove any visible debris, and hire an HVAC technician for routine coil cleaning.
Adding shade can help, too. Consider hanging a tarp or shade cloth over the unit during the hottest part of the year. You can also install a protective covering to prevent debris issues in the future.
Seal Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors
If your air conditioner runs ceaselessly, there may be nothing wrong with the unit itself. You may have leaks throughout your home that allow cool air to escape and sweltering temperatures to heat up your abode.
To reduce AC energy consumption, thoroughly inspect your windows, doors, and attic for gaps and cracks that can let hot air in. If you find any, seal them with weatherstripping or caulk.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Does your air conditioner seem to run at all hours? You might benefit from installing a programmable thermostat, which allows you to set the temperature you want for different times of the day. With a smart programmable thermostat, you can even control the temperature remotely from your phone.
Ideally, avoid setting the thermostat any lower than 72 degrees in the summer. This is cool enough to keep you comfortable while high enough to reduce the strain on the unit. If you’re leaving your house for a few days, consider increasing the temperature by several degrees.
Still Wondering How To Make an Old Air Conditioner Work Better? Call Our Experts in Roselle, IL, for Maintenance
If you’re still looking for advice on how to make an old air conditioner work better, reach out to our team at Leith Heating & Cooling. We’re experts at maintaining air conditioners, fixing overheating AC units, and more. Give us a call to schedule service in Roselle, IL, today.