Given the length and intensity of our cooling season, an overworked air conditioner isn’t an uncommon occurrence. While these systems are built to handle heavy use, they use less electricity and last longer with routine maintenance and a lower cooling load.

Increasing the efficiency of your cooling system gives it an immediate boost, which you can do by having the system serviced each year by an HVAC professional. When skilled technicians perform maintenance on your equipment, they clean, adjust and lubricate the parts, bringing the system back to factory settings as closely as possible.

They also check the refrigerant and airflow, both of which greatly impact efficiency. Lack of airflow could indicate ductwork leaks that increase the amount of time your system runs depending on the number and size of the leaks. Sealing them immediately reduces the load on your air conditioner.

Changing the air filter for the air handler when it’s covered with dust also prevents an overworked air conditioner. A clogged or dirty filter blocks system airflow, increasing the time it takes your air conditioner to reach the thermostat setting.

These tips will help you reduce the cooling load indoors:

• Use shade screens on the outside of your home’s windows that receive sun exposure in the summer. These screens can block up to 90 percent of the UV light entering your home. The kits are available at home improvement centers or they can be custom-made.
• Seal air leaks throughout your home to ease the work load of your cooling system. You can inspect the windows and door frames for cracks, and look at the seals where pipes, wires or cables enter your home to find obvious air leaks. A professional energy auditor or HVAC contractor can pinpoint air leakage in your home by conducting a blower door test. Most leaks are easy to seal with weatherstripping, caulk or expanding foam, depending on the situation.

If you suspect you have an overworked air conditioner, please contact us at Powers Heating & Air. We’ve proudly provided HVAC services for the Peachtree City area since 2001.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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