A heating, cooling, and air conditioning system consumes a significant amount of energy which accounts for a significant portion of the monthly power bills. As a result, it’s critical to ensure that it’s operating at near-peak performance.
Not only can this save money on electricity, but a device that isn’t working well could indicate an issue that needs to be solved before it becomes a big expenditure.
Filters that are dirty prevent proper cooling
Before you check the temperature, make sure your air filters are in good shape. When air filters get clogged, the air conditioner will perform poorly so less air passes into the filter, resulting in less air being cooled. If this occurs, ice will build up on the evaporator coils, allowing the device to overheat.
Keeping the air filters clean and clear of debris is the first and fastest step in keeping the air conditioner running at its best. In reality, a clogged filter is one of the most common causes of device failure. Filters can be replaced on a daily basis.
Check the temperature
- For checking, wait until the conditions are ideal. You want a day with a temperature of at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit outside. If the temperature in your region is rarely that high, measure on the hottest day possible. After that, let the air conditioner run for at least 15 minutes.
- Place the thermometer on a vent for five minutes and then remove it. Make a note of the temperature. Replace the thermometer in a return vent and repeat the process. The air that exits should be 14 to 20 degrees colder than that which enters.
- Place the thermometer in each space or region of your home near a vent. If some of the vents are much cooler or warmer than the others, there may be an issue with the ductwork or space between the blower and the vents is too great.
- Your air conditioner can also be low on refrigerant or have some AC maintenance issues if it isn’t cooling properly.
But what about the furnace?
Nobody wants to be stuck with a broken furnace during the cold winter months, but there are certain things you can do on your own to fix the problem. If your furnace won’t turn on, try the following suggestions:
- Examine the power supply for blown fuses, tripped breakers, and dead batteries, among other items.
- Make a visual inspection for dirt, mud, spider webs, and nicotine buildup. These substances will coat the interior of the thermostat, causing mechanical and electrical components to fail.
- To scrub, softly brush the interior components with a gentle brush, such as a clean paintbrush. Cleaning the thermostat with compressed air is also a good idea.
Another feature to review when calling a specialist is whether the thermostat maintains the proper temperature in the room.
- To do so, tape a small thermometer to the wall next to the thermostat, ensuring that the thermometer is protected from heat or cold movement from the wall with a paper towel.
- Wait at least 15 minutes to verify that the temperature has settled and is providing an accurate reading, then match it to your thermostat’s reading.
- The thermostat is most definitely not providing a correct reading if the numbers are more than a degree apart. This is crucial information to provide while speaking with the repairman about the problem.
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Congratulations, you’ve found it! Superior Mechanical Services, Inc. began in 1948 as a family-owned business with a vision to provide value-minded service with a down-to-earth approach to customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. As the premier Commercial and Residential HVAC repair company for Livermore, Dublin, and Pleasanton, Superior Mechanical can do it all, from heating and air conditioning services to boiler services, to plumbing services. Our AC repair technicians are certified professionals who will ensure every part of your project is done right using a careful checklist to guide and test each step. At the end of your appointment, we’ll show you how to get the most out of your system and give you tips on maintenance so it lasts for years to come. Contact us today for amazing service tomorrow!
