Three Ways You Can Keep Your AC Unit Running Efficiently

The summers in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina can be as brutally hot and humid as anywhere near the equator, even if your home sits along the Atlantic Ocean in Myrtle Beach. To ensure your air conditioner is running efficiently and not blowing your energy dollars for nothing, take these three steps before the heat waves of the summer arrive.

Change the Air Filter Monthly

Although there are plenty of air filters on the market, a high-efficiency particulate arrestance filter is the most efficient you can purchase. According to both the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, a HEPA filter removes airborne particles and filters air at an extremely fine level. In fact, it can block particles that are 0.3 microns or bigger, catching 99.97 percent of the particles that pass through.

To help the AC unit run more efficiently, change the air filter once a month during the summer.

Take Proactive Steps with Your AC Unit

Although you shouldn’t perform major maintenance on your air conditioner if you aren’t qualified to work with it, there are proactive steps you can take to help improve its efficiency. These steps will also reduce the demand on your AC:

1. Vacuum around the indoor vents and ensure they aren’t blocked.
2. Close curtains and blinds if you aren’t at home during the day.
3. Set the ceiling fans to run in a counterclockwise direction if you are at home during the day.
4. Minimize the use of the oven and dryer during the summer.
5. Clear the drain line by the indoor cooling coil.

Invest in a Professional Tuneup

Of course, the number-one way to ensure your air conditioner runs more efficiently is to invest in a professional air conditioning tune up every spring. Although it’s initial investment, it pays for itself by lowering your utility bills and leading to fewer repairs. It also extends your HVAC system’s lifespan.

If you’re looking for a professional HVAC contractor in Murrells Inlet, SC or the surrounding communities, contact Air Doctor Services, Inc. today! In addition to completing system tuneups, we also offer a range of other residential and commercial HVAC services.