8 Common AC Maintenance Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many homeowners fix common problems around the house and have done so for years. However, making mistakes when maintaining your AC unit can do more harm than good. We’ll outline a few common mistakes and explain why you should avoid them.

1. Failing to Check and Change Air Filters

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is failing to check your filters. Dirty air filters restrict airflow through the system and can damage your unit. For the best performance, check and change air filters every one to three months or whenever they look dirty.

2. Not Scheduling Routine Maintenance

Many homeowners see professional maintenance as an extra expense they don’t need. However, not maintaining your unit properly can lead to bigger problems later. Scheduling regular service appointments helps prevent this. If issues are caught early, repairs tend to be less expensive than if you wait until they get worse.

3. Ignoring Warning Signs

Homeowners often wait too long to address odd noises or smells coming from their system. Thumps, bangs, and squeals are noises designed to alert you to the fact that something needs attention. If you ignore these early warning signs, you may end up with expensive repairs you could have prevented.

4. Setting Your Thermostat Incorrectly

Setting the thermostat too low or too high creates wear and tear on your system. Experts recommend setting it around 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer for optimal comfort and efficiency.

5. Blocking Air Vents

Another mistake is blocking air vents in unused rooms to conserve energy. The idea is to direct the cool air to occupied rooms, but what it’s really doing is causing pressure to build up in the system. If this goes on too long, it can lead to leaks and costly repairs. Keep all vents open for maximum efficiency.

6. Failing to Maintain Outdoor Units

Another big part of AC maintenance is keeping your outdoor unit clean. Decaying leaves, grass clippings, and dirt can build up around the base of the unit and block the airflow. Like the indoor equipment, your outdoor component requires a certain amount of room to operate effectively and avoid overheating.

7. Postponing Repairs

It’s tempting to put things off when you’re busy and have a full schedule. However, procrastinating when it comes to AC repairs can lead to trouble. Address problems as quickly as possible, and make a service appointment to prevent bigger problems later.

8. Not Knowing When to Call a Professional

Attempting to make repairs to your system without the proper knowledge can damage it and cause it to stop working entirely. Most homeowners can make simple fixes, but for complex issues, it’s better to have someone who knows what they’re doing. Always call a professional for repairs that are outside your area of expertise.

Get Help From an Expert

Proper AC maintenance requires cleaning around the indoor and outdoor units, changing filters, and watching for signs that indicate it’s time to call for repair service. If you need AC repair in Panama City, FL, contact our experts at Ridge Heating and Air Conditioning.