Did you know that you play a huge role in how well your air conditioner performs? Did you know that you can easily improve its performance?

You’re probably wondering how you can upgrade the performance of an air conditioner without knowing much about modern HVAC technology. We’ve put together a few suggestions that anyone can put into practice without ever having to pick up a screwdriver.

Upgrade Your Thermostat

Have a technician replace your standard thermostat with a programmable model. Installing a programmable thermostat will extend the life of your air conditioner and in the long run, save you plenty of money.

Often homeowners neglect to adjust their thermostats before leaving for work. That means that the AC unit is needlessly working at a demanding level for at least eight hours.

With a programmable thermostat, you can program your system to either shut down completely or to operate at a higher temperature setting while you’re away. Making this upgrade to your thermostat is one of the easiest ways to help your air conditioner because it doesn’t interfere with your comfort or way of life.

Let Your Air Conditioner Breathe

Imagine trying to get through a full day at your job while working in a room with no fresh air. You’d soon be exhausted from all the effort you’d have to exert to perform the same daily tasks that you could do with ease under normal circumstances. Your air conditioner also works better when it receives enough fresh air.

The simplest step to take to make sure your air conditioner is breathing freely is to replace the air filter regularly. The manufacturer of your AC unit will recommend the type of filter to use and how often it should be changed.

It’s safer to stay with the recommendation of the manufacturer. Otherwise, if you choose a filter that’s of lesser quality than recommended, you’ll allow dust particles to escape the filter and enter the air conditioner. Conversely, if you select a filter that’s of a much higher quality than recommended, the filter could be so restrictive that it allows too little air to reach the air conditioner.

If your AC unit is outdoors, it’s important to make sure that there is nothing blocking air from reaching it. Lawn equipment, outdoor furniture, and toys often end up lying on or leaning against the air conditioner. However, these seemingly innocent items can be the reason your air conditioner is struggling.

Be willing to prune or relocate any plants and bushes that create a windbreak around the AC unit. Yes, this can be a lot of work, but it will help your air conditioner to perform better.

Don’t Bring Heat into Your Home

The lower the temperature is in your house before you turn the AC unit on, the less the air conditioner has to strain to cool your house. Fortunately, you can lessen the temperature with a simple strategy.

Use window treatments to block sunrays. Heavy drapery or blackout curtains will do the trick. If you don’t want to use this technique for every window, at least use it for the windows that receive the most sun such as your glass patio doors.

Reduce Humidity

Turn off your humidifier if possible. The way an air conditioner cools a room is by removing the excess moisture in the air. When you use a humidifier in conjunction with an AC unit, you’re asking the air conditioner to work harder than necessary.

Schedule Regular Checkups

Regular checkups aren’t just for your dentist and optometrist. Your favorite HVAC technician should see your air conditioner at least once a year. If your HVAC unit also provides heat, you should schedule appointments at least twice a year.

When was the last time your air conditioner received a thorough inspection? Rely on Philadelphia-area technicians who are trained to teach you how to help your air conditioner perform better. Don’t delay. Schedule an appointment today by contacting HVAC Philly.