Turning your home into a "refrigerator" when it's scorching hot outside is tempting, and many people do it unconsciously.
However, this might not be a wise move if you want your air conditioner to maintain optimal performance.
In fact, users may be making many mistakes that could damage their home's cooling system and cost them more in the long run.
Orlando Penner, a manufacturer and owner of South Country Sheds, says the most serious air conditioning problems often start with good intentions but end up with a repair bill.
He had witnessed many people ruining systems while trying to "optimize" things they didn't understand, such as trying to save energy, increase cooling speed, or force airflow into a room.
Below are the most common mistakes noted by heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) experts during heatwaves.
The temperature is set too low.
According to Brandon Young, CEO of Payless Power, the worst mistake is lowering the temperature to the lowest setting with the thought that this will cool the house faster.
In fact, air conditioners cool at a constant rate regardless of the temperature setting the user chooses.
Lowering the temperature only puts more strain on the system, increasing electricity bills without helping the house achieve a comfortable temperature any faster.
This expert recommends setting the temperature a few degrees higher than usual and turning on additional ceiling fans to circulate the air, helping to cool the room without putting unnecessary strain on the system.
Skip cleaning the filter.
Many people often neglect cleaning their air conditioner filters because they are out of sight. However, regular checks are essential for the system to function smoothly, especially in hot weather.
Lisa Purvins, CFO and Vice President of Pro-Tech Heating & Cooling, said a clogged filter will obstruct airflow, forcing the system to work harder and potentially leading to higher electricity bills or premature equipment failure.
Users should check the filter monthly and replace it at least quarterly, depending on usage. During hot weather, the system runs continuously, causing the filter to clog very quickly.
If the outdoor temperature is above 35 degrees Celsius, users should check the filter every two weeks.
Close the room door and block the ventilation openings.
Closing off unused rooms or blocking vents to try and keep out the cold air might sound reasonable, but experts agree that it's not a good idea.
Ms. Purvins explained that this action essentially disrupts the balance of the HVAC system, increasing pressure in the ductwork and potentially causing leaks or reducing overall efficiency.
The best approach is to open vents, keep doors and windows open between rooms, and use programmable thermostats to manage temperature zones more effectively.
Sealing air ducts with substandard materials.
Many people seal air ducts themselves using adhesive tapes or foam that are not rated to standard for use in HVAC systems.
These unsuitable materials can degrade quickly, leading to inefficient equipment performance or air leaks.
Experts recommend seeking professional repair services to inspect and properly seal the ductwork if a problem is suspected.
Ignoring early warning signs
If you notice unusual signs such as strange noises, uneven temperatures, or higher-than-normal electricity bills, you should address the issue immediately.
Many people often ignore early warning signs until a major malfunction occurs.
Scheduling HVAC system maintenance before the summer and winter seasons will help keep equipment running at peak efficiency and provide an opportunity to diagnose issues such as low refrigerant levels, dirty coils, or power supply faults.
Skipping pre-summer maintenance checks is a big mistake, because during hot weather, the most important thing is for equipment to operate as efficiently as possible.
(According to realsimple)
