How Can I Get My AC to Last Longer?

Extend The Life Of Your Air Conditioner

An air conditioning unit is like your favorite pair of jeans- you can get a lot of good use out of both, but neither of them last forever. Styles change and both can get worn out over time. With the right care, however, there are certain care techniques used to boost the life expectancy of either- whether it be your go-to jeans, or your home’s AC unit.

Service Wizard Heating and Air Conditioning is here with the best advice to prolong the use of your air conditioning system.

How Long Do AC Units Typically Last?

Professionals have suggested that a good unit will typically last 15-20 years. Location is the biggest factor in determining how frequently your air conditioner will be used. A New Yorker’s AC unit will last far longer than an Austinite’s unit due to the cooler climate they live in.

The Service Wizard team has a list of the most helpful tips on how to help your system live longer in the face of Central Texas heat.

Improve Your Air Quality

While it is your HVAC unit’s duty to keep the air quality in your home clean, there are many ways you can help make its job easier. The less debris your air filter has to endure, the better.

Pick Up After Pets

Furry roommates often wreak havoc on an air filtration system with their shedding, so professionals recommend that you be extra mindful about cleaning up their hair before it ends up on the inside of your air conditioning system.

Get a Hold On Humidity

If your home is located in a region that experiences more humidity than others, your AC’s life is likely to be shortened at the hands of mold and mildew build-up. Purchasing a standard dehumidifier is an easy way to take some of the pressure off of your central HVAC system.

Go Green

Plants can also make great coworkers to the AC unit by helping keep air quality clean. Many studies have proven that certain house plants have the ability to purify air, removing toxins and fighting airborne allergens in your home.

Consistent Climate

The more that the temperature in your home is manipulated, the harder your HVAC system has to work in order to properly cool your home. A comfortable temperature is often the most debated topic among families or roommates, but keeping it as consistent as possible can keep unnecessary stress on your unit.

Smart thermostats are often recommended for those with inconsistent temperature habits as they have the ability to learn your behavior and adjust automatically. They can even cater to every member of the house with zoning systems installed for different rooms.

Mark Your Calendar

Keeping a regular routine of good AC maintenance will help keep it fresh and at top performance in the long run. Fortunately, Scheduling a seasonal tune-up with Service Wizard is easy!

Regularly Changing Your AC Filters

It’s often a neglected chore, but it can make all the difference. Air filters work hard to remove everyday debris that may compromise the air quality in your home such as:

• Dust
• Pet hair
• Pollen
• Dandruff
• Airborne contaminants 
• Mold
• Bacteria

By keeping up this simple task, your air quality and air conditioner will be kept clean and free of any blockage that may find its way to the inside of your unit. It is recommended that your air filters be replaced at least once every three months.

Regularly Schedule an AC Tune-Up

Leave it to the pros to keep your air conditioning system alive and well. At least once a year, a standard AC maintenance service should be performed on your home to catch any small problems before they become a major fix and expense. During a standard HVAC tune-up, a technician will perform the following tasks:

• Clean any drainage pipes
• Check for cracks or leaks
• Examine coolant levels
• Inspect cooling coils 
• Clean the evaporator 
• Secure and tighten any electric components
• Check to make sure the thermostat is calibrated

To ensure your HVAC system is thriving, contact our team at Service Wizard for an AC tune-up in Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown and surrounding areas. Our team of experienced professionals are ready to serve you today!