How Efficient is Your Air-Conditioning System?

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A retractable awning providing shade over a front porch in the villages florida

Over 75% of U.S. homes have air conditioning. With Florida temperatures frequently hovering in the 90s, air conditioning has become a necessity. There are a few steps home and business owners can take to ensure that their air conditioning units are running efficiently for many years to come.  

Professional  Maintenance

Air conditioning units that aren’t running properly lose up to 50% of energy costs. A little bit of maintenance and care is necessary to maximize the efficiency and lifespan of your air conditioning unit. Ideally, a certified service technician should check your unit annually. Investing in these yearly maintenance checkups can help prevent a much larger and more expensive repair or replacement in the future. 

DIY Maintenance

In between annual service checks, there are a few things you can do to help keep your unit running efficiently.

Outdoor Maintenance

Keep the outdoor area surrounding your condenser free from objects and plant growth (about a 2 ft. radius). You can also use a small brush or brush vacuum attachment to clean debris from the condenser fins and fans, just remember to turn the power to your unit off first and avoid getting any water on your fan motor. Refer to your owner’s manual to see if your unit requires occasional lubrication to the fan. 

Indoor Maintenance

To maintain your internal evaporator and blower you should regularly clean the evaporator coils with a soft brush to remove dust and debris. Check your evaporator drain for clogs and mold. In the event that you need to thoroughly clean this area, a wet-dry vacuum will come in handy. Remember to change your filter regularly as well. 

Reduce the Solar Gain

According to a study conducted by the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning Engineers, solar radiation through glass is responsible for approximately 20% of the load on an air conditioner. To reduce the amount of heat coming into your home, consider adding trees, shades, and outdoor awnings to your structures and property. A 2007 study found that awnings significantly impact cooling costs and electrical demand by reducing solar gain through windows and glass doors. Installing a retractable awning can ensure that you have a stylish, affordable, and easy way to open and close your awning with the touch of a button. You may find that adding that solar gain back in the cooler months helps to keep you comfortable too! 

For over ten years, Authority Home Solutions has been providing expert consultation, installation, and customer service to the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas. As an authorized SunSetter provider, we offer the highest quality retractable awnings, Easyshades, and storm protection available on the market. We love helping home and business owners to create comfortable and safe outdoor spaces affordably. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.