When it comes to surviving a hot summer in India, air conditioning is not a luxury anymore, and it has become a necessity.
To keep the chances of a possible air conditioning breakdown at bay, there are certain things you must look out for to help avoid expensive damage. With warmer months just around the corner, we have put together a list of low-cost and easy ways to improve the efficiency of your air conditioner, to help you get the most from your system while checking your expenses.
Replace the Air Filters
Air filters are often the cheapest and most straightforward way to keep your AC running at peak efficiency. If the air filter of your AC gets clogged, it causes the unit to work harder to circulate air across your home. It is highly recommended to change the air filter every month, especially during the hotter months, when spending more time inside with the AC running.
Remove Debris
People don't often realize that keeping the outside unit of the AC clean and free of debris can bring about a big difference in its efficiency. Twigs, leaves, pollen, and dirt can impede the performance of your AC. In addition, the outdoor fan is usually protected by a few metal grates only, making it susceptible to damage.
Clear the Drain Line
Apart from cooling the air, AC units also remove the excess humidity from the air. The AC unit collects the water and passes it through a drain, carrying it out of the house. However, with time, the drain might get blocked and overflow, causing severe damage to the unit. So make sure you clean the drain line by pouring a cup of chlorine down the drain, followed by a gallon of water.
Insulate any exposed ductwork
Ensure ductwork that runs through an unconditioned space is correctly sealed, so it doesn't leak any conditioned air. You can fix visible leaks with specialized duct-sealing tape.
Tighten Belts
Inside your air conditioning unit, some belts run the fans. Unfortunately, these belts get worn out with time and might even cause your AC unit to freeze, and the repair cost involved will be astronomical. To avoid this, check your belts from time to time to ensure they are in good condition.
Use these simple tips along with regular maintenance to mitigate the chances of your AC developing a problem.
