Is your old air conditioner struggling to keep your home cool during Arizona’s scorching summers? Instead of rushing to replace it, there are several ways you can optimize its performance and make it work better. At Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating, we understand the importance of maximizing your AC’s efficiency to keep you comfortable without breaking the bank. Below are some simple tips to help you breathe new life into your aging AC system and ensure it’s running smoothly when you need it most.

1. Clean or Replace the Air Filter Regularly

One of the easiest yet most overlooked maintenance tasks for your air conditioner is keeping the air filter clean. When the filter is clogged with dust and debris, it restricts airflow, making the AC unit work harder to cool your home. This can lead to higher energy consumption and unnecessary wear on the system.

To prevent this, check the air filter once a month during peak usage seasons and replace or clean it as needed. Most filters should be replaced every 30-60 days, but if you have pets or allergies, you may need to do it more frequently.

2. Ensure Proper Ventilation Around the Unit

If your outdoor AC unit is surrounded by overgrown plants, dirt, or other debris, it can cause poor airflow and reduced efficiency. Make sure there is at least 2-3 feet of clearance around the unit to allow proper ventilation. Trim any shrubs, remove leaves, and clear any obstructions regularly. This small step can go a long way in improving your air conditioner’s overall performance.

3. Check and Clean the Coils

The condenser and evaporator coils play a crucial role in cooling your home. Over time, dirt and grime build up on these coils, making it harder for the AC to transfer heat and cool your home effectively. Cleaning the coils at least once a year can enhance cooling efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

While some homeowners choose to clean the coils themselves, we recommend having a professional technician from Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating inspect and clean them during routine maintenance visits. This ensures your system is in top shape without risking damage.

4. Seal and Insulate Ducts

Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can significantly decrease the efficiency of your air conditioning system, leading to uneven cooling and higher energy bills. Sealing leaks in your ductwork and adding insulation where necessary can prevent cool air from escaping, allowing your system to work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.

If you’re unsure about the condition of your ducts, an HVAC professional can assess your system and recommend sealing or insulation improvements.

5. Invest in a Programmable Thermostat

An outdated thermostat may be holding your AC back from performing optimally. Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat allows you to set specific cooling schedules and regulate the temperature more efficiently. This not only prevents the AC from running when it’s not needed but also reduces overall energy usage.

Consider setting the thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re not home or during cooler times of the day. Even minor adjustments can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bill.

6. Check the Refrigerant Levels

If your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home as effectively as it used to, low refrigerant levels could be the culprit. Low refrigerant can cause the system to run inefficiently and lead to further mechanical issues if left unaddressed. It’s essential to have an HVAC technician check the refrigerant levels and recharge them if needed.

At Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating, we offer thorough inspections to ensure your system has the correct amount of refrigerant, helping your old AC perform at its best.

7. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Just like any other appliance, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to keep running smoothly, especially as it ages. Annual tune-ups can help catch minor issues before they turn into major, costly repairs. Routine maintenance also includes tasks like tightening electrical connections, lubricating moving parts, and checking the thermostat settings.

By scheduling regular maintenance with a trusted local HVAC company like Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating, you can extend the life of your AC and keep it running efficiently for years to come.

8. Consider Professional Upgrades

If your old AC is still struggling despite your best efforts, it may benefit from professional upgrades. For example, installing an energy-efficient fan motor or upgrading the compressor can improve the unit’s performance. While these upgrades might involve some upfront costs, they can help you save money in the long run by reducing energy consumption and preventing the need for a full system replacement.

Your old AC doesn’t have to be a burden this summer! By following these simple steps, you can enhance its performance and improve energy efficiency. For more advanced solutions or professional maintenance, trust the experts at Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating. With over 40 years of experience in the Green Valley area, we’re here to help you get the most out of your HVAC system.

Contact us today to schedule a maintenance visit or to learn more about how we can help you stay cool and comfortable!