With summer months rolling around, many of us are excited to finally experience those picnics in the park, swimming at the lake, and morning hikes again. Some days, however, are simply too hot to stay outside and warrant staying cool at home. Below are five useful tips on keeping your home cool during those sweltering summer days, including air conditioner maintenance.
1. Invest in Good Window Coverings
If you’ve ever seen your cat or dog lying in front of their favourite sunny spot by the window to get some warmth, they have the right idea. About 76% of the sunlight that comes through standard two-pane windows gets converted to heat. The longer this heat gets in, the more precious AC-cooled air you lose.
Good quality blinds and curtains can block sunlight, and prevent heat from leaking in, keeping your house substantially cooler. Consider investing in blackout window coverings, which have greater insulating effects.
Blinds and curtains are both versatile and low-maintenance. These window coverings typically only need semi-annual cleanings to keep dirt and dust away. That’s a low price to pay for a comfortable living space!
2. Install Central AC If You Don’t Have It
Installing a central air-conditioned unit is one of the most efficient ways to keep your home cool. More and more Albertans are choosing to install central AC. Province-wide, AC use has increased by 44% in the last ten years.
Central AC units are multi-purpose. Not only does air conditioning provide you with more comfort, but it also promotes a healthier home. Thanks to their filters, air conditioners can remove pollutants in the air. They also reduce humidity.
Unlike portable and window units, central air conditioners cool the entire home. Warm temperatures can slowly break down electronics by lowering their lifespan. Hardwood floors are also susceptible to swelling caused by heat and humidity. By opting for central AC, you’ll have peace of mind that your entire home will be safe from the heat.
3. Keep Your AC Cleaned and Maintained
With time, AC units become clogged with dirt and debris. If left unmaintained, your air conditioning system will need to use more power, eventually leading to rising energy consumption during these high-usage months.
To keep units running smoothly, it is important to regularly replace air filters and clean fan blades. The evaporator and condenser coils should also be thoroughly cleaned. Air conditioner cleanings should be done at least two times a year, preferably by a professional.
AC maintenance is important. A central AC unit can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years if you maintain your air conditioner accordingly.
4. Have Your Ducts Cleaned
Similar to AC units, you should also have your air ducts cleaned to improve house air quality. Properly maintained ducts allow cooling systems to run more efficiently. Routine maintenance for air ducts involves cleanings once every two to three years, preferably by a professional.
5. Adjust Your Thermostat Schedule for Different Times of the Day.
Let’s face it: keeping your entire house cool during searing Alberta summers can be expensive. One cost-effective strategy to combat this is programming an automatic thermostat schedule. By customising your thermostat to your lifestyle, you can save both money and energy.
If you like arriving home from work to a nicely chilled house, try programming the AC to turn on 20 minutes before you return. You can also reduce AC cooling slightly before bed each night, and instead opt for opening windows to allow cool air to filter in.
Keep Cool With Air Conditioner Maintenance and Installation
Already sweating? Look no further than Clean Air Solutions for your AC, furnace, and duct cleaning needs. We offer a variety of home improvement and maintenance services. We’ll help you get your house ready for the summer, so you can have a cool home with refreshing air quality, no matter how hot it is outside. Contact us today, or book an appointment and get your free quote.
