Prevent Overworking Your AC And Avoid Frequent Repairs

Houston residents are fortunate to have mild temperatures throughout most of the year, but they are extreme in the summer. Many people recognize that turning the AC thermostat setting higher will blow cooler air from the vents.

However, they don’t understand that the higher you set it the less effective. In fact, it consumes energy leading to excessive utility costs.

Fortunately, quality, and qualified AC professionals educate and instruct Texas homeowners on setting the thermostat to reduce stress on the system and prevent the equipment from overworking leading to prematurely worn components, the potential for malfunctioning, and a shortened lifespan.

Companies like Smart Air advise that while the air conditioning is meant to cool the home to a comfortable level, the intention is not to make the house frosty cold.

If the outdoor temperature exceeds 95 degrees and you set the thermostat on 70, it will be under considerable strain leading to frequent repairs and a replacement sooner rather than later. How can you reduce AC stress for greater function and efficiency along with an extended lifespan, lets learn a few tips.

Reducing AC Strain During the Extreme of a Texas Summer

Texas summers are scorching with residents seeking refuge indoors with functional and efficient air conditioning. Too often, however, homeowners set the thermostat to extreme cooling to combat the heat.

Regardless of how high you set the temperature, the system will only produce at its capacity, often losing efficiency the lower the setting. The recommendation is to keep the temperature only 20 degrees below the outdoor temperature. For 95-degree days, the setting should be roughly 75 degrees to prevent undue stress.

If you go lower than this recommendation, the equipment must work harder to achieve the desired temperature, which leads to excessive energy consumption, increased utility costs, and premature wear of the system. This can mean a shut down and a shortened lifespan for your air conditioning system.

How can you reduce the stress of your AC system to prevent frequent repairs and a premature break down? Consider these tips.

A Programmable Thermostat

A smart thermostat is an efficient and effective investment t aid in helping to regulate the interior thermostat. Homeowners can preset the thermostat and schedule adjustment based on your lifestyle, specific needs, and preferences. The AC equipment will be less stressed with a programmable thermostat.

If you want to wait for this investment, you can still manually adjust the thermostat for a more efficient and cost-effective operation. In the evenings or at night when temperatures go down, you can turn the system down or turn the unit off in favor of ceiling fans.

In cooler months, you can turn the heat down after sundown and when not home or turn it off and rely on extra blankets and heavier clothing to accommodate the lower temperatures.

The Vents

The HVAC system must work harder when vents or registers are blocked which consumes more energy and leads to higher utility costs. Homeowners must check to ensure furnishings, drapes, and other obstacles don’t hinder airflow which makes the AC work harder to achieve the desired temperature.

Not only should blocks be removed, but the vents should be routinely cleaned to rid the register of built-up debris to encourage adequate air circulation.

In this same vein, ceiling fans can work cohesively with the HVAC system to maintain a comfortable temperature. When these are run counterclockwise, the cooler air will push down into the space helping reduce the stress put on the air conditioning system.

This prevents premature wear and the potential for frequent repairs, allowing optimum efficiency and functionality for extended longevity. Read here for a guide on troubleshooting common AC issues and the necessary fixes.

Keeping the Home Airtight

When hot or cold air infiltrates the space through unsealed windows or doors, the AC must work harder to cool the space. This leads to greater energy consumption and higher energy costs as HVAC runs vigilantly to compensate for the heat and cold infiltration.

Another consideration when trying to prevent frequent repairs and premature wear is whether your home is fitted with single-pane windows. These have little insulation and prove less effective when temperatures become extreme in the summer or winter.

Double-pane windows have greater insulation and minimize air leaks. Additionally, you want to incorporate weather stripping and caulking around windows and doors to prevent drafts.

Routine HVAC Maintenance

A qualified and reputable HVAC company performs regular maintenance to ensure the system is in good condition and functioning at high performance. These experts catch developing problems in early to address the issues promptly and prevent further damage or excessive costs for extensive repairs.

With these preventive measures, homeowners can have peace of mind knowing their household temperature is adequately controlled without straining or stressing the AC system. Visit 8 Air Conditioner Problems and How to Fix Them – Consumer Reports – for details on common AC problems and tips for fixing them.

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