Keep your cooling system cool: Preventing AC burnout when temperatures soar
When the mercury hits 40°C and above, the first instinct is to crank up the AC. But running your unit non-stop can lead to a drop in performance, higher electricity bills, and unexpected breakdowns when you need it the most. Overworking your AC also shortens its lifespan, especially during peak summer months when it’s already under pressure. So, whether you’re relying on a sleek inverter AC for efficient cooling or a basic window AC to get through the heat, taking a few preventive steps can make a big difference in both comfort and cost. Here’s a handy checklist to keep your AC cool, efficient, and reliable during the peak summer months.
- Don’t ignore the filters
Dirty filters are one of the largest causes of ineffective cooling and overworked ACs. They limit air flow and make the AC less efficient. Get into the habit of cleaning or changing filters every 2 to 4 weeks in the summer. For Window AC owners, it’s probably as easy as pulling out the filter and running it under a tap.
- Use the right temperature settings
Leaving your AC at 18°C won’t make the room cool quicker, it’ll just overwork the AC. It is suggested to keep your AC at 24 to 26°C for a comfortable and energy-saving experience. If your AC has an “Eco” or “Energy Saver” mode, switch it on to automatically balance performance with power consumption.
- Block the heat outside
Your AC works double time if your room keeps heating up. Keep the curtains closed throughout the day, particularly on sunny windows. Install reflective films or blinds to filter out direct sunlight. In the case of a window AC, close the AC unit well to prevent leakage of warm air.
- Seal air leaks and close unused rooms
Cool air leaks out rapidly through gaps around windows and doors. Seal leaks and stop heat from escaping by using foam tape or weather stripping. Additionally, close the doors to unused rooms to concentrate the cooling force where it is most required.
- Give your AC room to breathe
Be it the outdoor compressor or the rear of a window AC, airflow is important. Ensure that the space around your AC is clear and not blocked. Cut back surrounding plants, clear out debris, and don’t block vents with furniture.
- Schedule regular servicing
Even if your AC is running normally, a professional check-up every year pays off in the long term. The technician cleans the internal components, inspects coolant levels, and makes sure that your AC is running at optimum efficiency. This is especially useful before the summer hits in full force.
- Give your AC a break with timers
Use timers or smart plugs to control usage and avoid running the AC continuously. This helps your AC cool your space when it’s needed most, like before bedtime or mid-afternoon, without overloading the system.
Escaping the heat doesn’t equate to exhausting your AC. A few minor adjustments to your usage patterns, combined with periodic maintenance, can go a long way in making your cooling system last longer. So, whether you own a split or window AC, taking good care of it ensures that it treats you to cool comfort throughout the summer months.