Getting to Know a Home’s Air Conditioning System
When a home depends on its air conditioning system for comfort and cool air, it’s important to be familiar with it. From central AC units to a ductless mini split system, familiarity with the basics helps homeowners better understand their system and be proactive with air conditioning maintenance, repairs, and care.
Exploring Common Air Conditioner Systems
There are many different types of air conditioning systems out there. For this guide, the focus will remain on the two most common home systems in use.
- Central Air Conditioning: distributes air through a ductwork system set to a specified thermostat temperature. The unit effectively cools large areas with consistent temperatures throughout the entire home.
- Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner: great for cooling in specified zones without any ductwork needed. Set to an internal thermostat to maintain a small area to the selected temperature. Provides targeted or zoned cooling.
Both central AC and a ductless mini-split system have great benefits depending on the home's needs. They can be efficient and reliable when properly maintained and cared for.
Identifying the Signs for Air Conditioning Repair
Being familiar with how a home system operates is crucial. When a homeowner is familiar with their system, they can understand when repair or maintenance is important. Understanding the common signs of potential issues is important so homeowners can call a professional to help prevent unit failure or significant repair needs.
Common signs to be aware of include the following:
- Poor airflow through the vents of the system
- Increase in energy bills from a struggling unit
- Cooling that is inconsistent with the AC unit in place
- Strange or unusual noises coming from the system
- Frequent cycling or turning off and on too often
If these issues are noted, the best thing to do is contact a professional to inspect the system and perform air conditioner maintenance and repair as needed.
Understand the Value of Routine Air Conditioning Maintenance
Homeowners can proactively maintain air conditioners to help prevent or avoid bigger issues. Scheduling annual or biannual maintenance is an investment that prevents system malfunction. This allows professionals to clean and inspect the unit and discover any early indicators of potential problems.
Hiring routine maintenance has some great benefits, like these:
- Improved unit efficiency
- Enhance performance capability
- Reducing or preventing breakdowns
- Extending the lifespan of the unit
Maintenance will include a thorough inspection of the entire unit. The professionals will inspect and clean all components, check refrigerant levels, inspect the ductwork if applicable, and test the system for optimal functionality. Most technicians will change the air filters during maintenance calls as well.
However, homeowners should also stay on top of AC filter changes. If the unit takes a filter, it should be changed every three months and sometimes more often. Staying on top of filter changes can have a positive impact in a household.
About Chad’s AC Direct
Chad’s AC Direct believes HVAC service and care should never be a hassle. The company works hard to provide personal attention and accurate service that is of great value for every homeowner’s air conditioning needs. Contact them today for air conditioning maintenance in Montgomery, AL.
