Your outdoor air conditioning unit is a vital component of your home’s comfort system, especially during scorching summer months. One crucial aspect of maintaining your A/C comfort at home is understanding how different elements can affect the whole system. So, if you are still in the process of shopping around, you want to ensure that you not only get familiar with the different specs of each solution, but you also understand the best recommendations for A/C in your home. For example, if you have pets, the filter in your indoor A/C unit may require more frequent replacements. Similarly, a spacious home will have different requirements compared to a smaller home, and as such, each homeowner will need an individual solution that works specifically for their lifestyle and needs.
Another important thing to consider is the maintenance of indoor and outdoor units. Many homeowners forget about the outdoor unit. Here are the things you want to keep in mind to keep your air conditioning working for many years.
Vegetation can block the vents
One of the most underestimated threats to your outdoor AC unit is overgrown vegetation. As plants and shrubs flourish around your unit, they can obstruct vents, restriction airflow. This can force the A/C unit to work harder, which will lead to an increase in energy consumption. Besides, your unit is also at risk of overheating, which is more alarming as it can lead to shutdown or damage.
So, ideally, you want to trim back the vegetation regularly and create a clear space around your unit for ventilation purposes. If you are frequently short on time, you can hire the services of a landscaping company to tame your shrubs and plants accordingly! This will save you from soaring energy bills and costly repairs down the line.
Rainwater from clogged gutters
Clogged gutters are a double whammy for your A/C unit. First, they lead to water overflow, which can cause the area around the unit to become waterlogged. Second, when debris-ridden water pours down the gutters, it can find its way into your A/C/ unit and cause damage to the delicate components.
So, you want to take gutter cleaning seriously. As a rule of thumb, you want to schedule professional cleaning at least once a year. Depending on your location and climate, your gutters may benefit from twice-a-year cleaning. Ideally, installing gutter guards that keep the leaves and twigs out will also make a considerable difference in the long term.
Pests eating their way in
While the outdoor unit may seem like an impenetrable fortress, this isn’t the case. It’s not immune to determined pests, such as insects and small rodents that can use it for shelter. They squeeze through the vent openings and chew their way in your A/C system, causing extensive damage.
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If you suspect you have a pest invasion in your garden, make it a priority to get your A/C/ unit inspected. Pest removal experts can help safely remove unwanted guests without damaging your unit.
Don’t be fooled by the solid appearance of your outdoor unit. Stay vigilant to prevent unnecessary risks, as, in most cases, damage can be avoided through attentive home maintenance routine. Remember: Regular maintenance and preventive measures may cost you time and money today but they can save you from unexpected and expensive repair and replacement costs.
