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Air Conditioning

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Should You Repair or Replace Your Split System Air Conditioner

Air conditioning tips that will save you money

By | Air Conditioning

Everyone wants to stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and a high-quality air conditioning unit is the perfect way to create a comfortable climate in your home.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Split System Air Conditioner
While the initial outlay may be costly, there are several things that you can do to save money on your air conditioning bill all year round! Check out our tips and tricks below.

 

Maintain your thermostat

It is always a good idea to learn how to use your thermostat properly and in a way which saves you money. It is far more energy-efficient, and therefore, economical to set the thermostat at a comfortable, mid-range temperature rather than pumping it up high as soon as you feel hot. Allowing the system to steadily decrease the temperature uses less energy and places less of a strain on your air conditioner system. As a result, you’ll end up with some extra dollars in your pocket.

Look after the refrigerant 

The refrigerant in your air conditioner is important in allowing your AC system to run smoothly and effectively. If the refrigerant is not properly charged, it can damage the compressor and trigger an expensive repair. This can also increase your energy use as the system is not operating at optimum efficiency. If you notice that the vents are discharging room temperature air, even after the system has been running for at least fifteen minutes, you may need your refrigerant charging. If that doesn’t seem to be the problem with your unit, you may also need a top-up if the system has had a leak.

Clean your coils

The condenser coils on the outside units can easily become clogged up with dirt, dust and other debris which make your AC unit work harder to pump out cool air, increasing energy consumption and making your bill extra pricey. It is well worth checking if there is any dirt or garden debris clogging up the coils to improve airflow and help the system operate more efficiently. If you find that the coils are clogged, be sure to clean them as soon as possible.

Clean and replace your filters

Similarly to the coils of an Ac unit, filters can become clogged with dirt and debris. While filtering these particles from the system is the primary function of this component, a dirty filter becomes almost useless and can force the system to work harder to maintain the temperature. Most manufacturers recommend that filters are changed every four to eight weeks. However, you may be able to extend the lifespan of your filters by cleaning them. Taking out the filter and removing any lint and other large debris as regularly as possible will not only increase the life of your filters but will also make your AC as energy-efficient as possible. 

If you follow these handy tips, you’ll be sure to save money on your electricity bills and feel comfortable in your home all year long. If you have any questions about getting the most out of your air conditioner or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please do not hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today. With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Criteria for Choosing the Best Air Conditioning

Why should you choose a wall-mounted AC system?

By | Air Conditioning

When it comes to choosing an AC system, there are so many different options.  From complex ducted air conditioning to simple window AC units, there is a different opportunity to suit the unique needs of every customer.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Air Conditioning
Today, let’s take a closer look at wall-mounted split system air conditioners and their many benefits.

 

What is a wall-mounted AC unit?

Wall-mounted, split system AC units,  are the most popular type of air conditioning units for homes and are designed to cool and/or heat either small or large residential areas. A split air conditioner consists of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit is installed on or near the exterior wall of the room that you wish to cool. This unit houses the compressor, condenser coil and the expansion coil or capillary tubing. The sleek-looking indoor unit contains the cooling coil, a long blower and an air filter. If you require multiple rooms or various room temperatures, multi-split systems function the same as a split system; however, comprise of a single outdoor unit connected to multiple independent indoor units. Let’s explore why wall-mounted AC systems are an excellent choice for your property.

Affordability

Wall-mounted air conditioning systems tend to be one of the most economical options for those looking for a cost-effective solution to air conditioning needs. While window units or even portable units appear to be far cheaper, split systems will save money significantly in the long run, due to their increased energy efficiency. Although centralised HVAC systems tend to offer lower running costs, when you factor in the initial outlay for installation, a wall-mounted unit is often the most affordable option.

Aesthetics

For many, the aesthetics of their home or building is an important factor. The sleek design of the new wall air conditioner means that it can be easily placed in almost any room and look great. Modern wall mounted units are designed to be slimmer and smaller than their older counterparts and far more aesthetically pleasing than bulky window and portable units. Unlike central HVAC systems that can require considerable disruption for installation, a wall-mounted unit causes very little damage to decor and aesthetics during installation.

Variety

Another great benefit of wall mounted air conditioning units is that there is a great variety of options available. Many reputable and established manufacturers offer a range of wall-mounted appliances, in different sizes, capacities and efficiencies. Many models also feature timers and other advanced features to allow you to maximise energy savings and reduce your electricity bills even in the height of summer.

While wall-mounted split systems are great, each possible air conditioning system has a number of advantages and disadvantages which are important to weigh up before you make a decision. If you have any questions about which AC is right for you, or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please do not hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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How to maintain HVAC filters

By | Air Conditioning, Maintenance

While filters can make our life easier in a huge number of ways, they also play an important role in the functioning and efficiency of your air conditioning unit.


It is important to use fresh HVAC filters for your aircon to run efficiently and without unnecessary exertion. But how do you check if your filters in good shape?

 

Buy the right HVAC filter

When you go shopping for HVAC filters, you will realise there are a variety of shapes and sizes of filters. Check your AC unit manual to figure out which shape and size you need to buy. Locate the manual and make a note of the make and model number. If the manual is missing, the make and model should be visible on the ac unit. It is important to remember that purchasing a filter which is too small or large can result in gaps that allow dust and debris to pass through, which can potentially burn out your HVAC system.

Checking your HVAC filter

If you want to check whether your HVAC filter needs replacing, follow the subsequent instructions: 

  1. Make sure your unit is turned off
  2. Lift the lid of your air conditioner.
  3. Check to see if your filter is damaged or needs reconditioning. You may notice a build-up of dust and debris.
  4. Clean your filters. If it is the first time removing the filter from your unit, follow the manual instructions. If the damage isn’t too bad, use a vacuum for a thorough clean. If it appears to be very clogged, scrub it under warm water and ensure it is completely dry before placing it back.
  5. If the damage is too much for cleaning, replace your filter. Do this by carefully removing the access panels, removing the filter and replacing it with a new one. Make sure the arrow on the outside of the filter is pointing in the same direction as the airflow. 

How much maintenance does your HVAC filter need?

Regular cleaning of your AC Unit and its filters is an important step for prolonging the life of your air conditioner. It is a good rule of thumb to change your HVAC filters every 45 to 60 days. However, if you suffer from allergies or have pets, you may need to change more frequently, especially during the summer months.

If you are confused or unsure about how to maintain your AC unit, or would like to know more about installation or maintenance of electrical items, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Air conditioning zoning

By | Air Conditioning

In our previous blog posts, we have discussed the many benefits of ducted air conditioning systems and have touched on the ability to create optimum comfort in your home through the process of ‘zoning.’

Photo by: Apex air conditioning

But what is zoning and how can you zone your home in a way which achieves your heating and cooling goals? Read our guide to find out.

 

What is a ducted air conditioning system?

Ducted AC systems are the ‘whole home’ air condition solution and are capable of controlling the temperature and humidity in every room of the house. A ducted air conditioning system works through its internal unit, which is installed within the roof space of the home. A series of ducts run from the air conditioning unit to each of the rooms in the home, allowing you to cool or heat each room using individual controls. Ducted systems are the fastest working, most energy-efficient option when it comes to cooling and heating your home, but do you ever need to replace the ducts? 

What is zoning?

Zoning is the added feature of ducted air conditioning systems which allows you to compartmentalise your home into different zones. Most ducted air conditioners can support up to eight zones or sometimes even more, and these are relatively easy to set up. Zoning allows you to preset different climate conditions for each zone in the home based on each area’s specific heating or cooling needs. You can turn on and off each zone and preset different temperature settings for each zone.

Zoning and energy efficiency

Not only can zoning allow you to have a highly personalised heating and cooling system in your home, but it can also improve energy efficiency too. Rather than cooling down your entire home at the same time, you can choose only to cool the rooms being used, saving you a considerable amount on running costs as you avoid unnecessarily cooling the other areas of your home.

Planning your zones

While you may have specific plans and objectives, it is important that you discuss your zoning plan with your air conditioning company before installation. You will need to determine which areas of your home you require heating and cooling, and what time of the day you need it. You can group different zones together for added convenience. Zoning configurations can be very versatile, but you will need to have a good grasp of how you want to use your air conditioning. You will want to map your air conditioning zones according to your usage pattern for your home. A typical zoning configuration is as follows:

  • Entrance & Hallway
  • Living & Dining
  • Kitchen
  • Bedrooms (1 zone for each)
  • Lounge
  • Study

Most ducted air conditioning systems will come with a wall-mounted zone controller. Alternatively, newer systems connect with wifi, meaning you can control zones with your smart-phone, even while you are not at home. 

Zoning is an excellent way to appropriately regulate the climate of your home. If you have any questions about zoning or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Replacing air conditioning ducts

By | Air Conditioning

When customers want to replace an old air conditioning system with a new ducted reverse cycle or evaporative system, they often ask to keep the existing ducts in order to save on costs.

But when do existing ducts need to be replaced and why could new ones be beneficial? Read our guide to find out.

 

What is a ducted AC system?

Ducted AC systems are the ‘whole home’ air condition solution and are capable of controlling the temperature and humidity in every room of the house. A ducted air conditioning system works through its internal unit, which is installed within the roof space of the home. A series of ducts run from the air conditioning unit to each of the rooms in the home, allowing you to cool or heat each room using individual controls. Ducted systems are the fastest working, most energy-efficient option when it comes to cooling and heating your home, but do you ever need to replace the ducts? 

When should you replace your ducts? 

Over time, AC ducts are exposed to dust and moisture, which forms due to condensation during operation. Over time dust, lint, grime and more can all build-up in your air-con ducts. It is recommended that you have your ducts cleaned or replaced if your air conditioning has been installed for over ten years. If you are installing a new ducted air conditioning system, you should always choose to put in new ducts too.

Benefits of replacing your AC ducts

While it is important to clean your AC ducts regularly, sometimes replacing them altogether is the most viable option. There are a number of benefits of replacing your AC ducts, including:

Air Quality & Hygiene: Old air ducts can become clogged up with dirt and grime, dead carcasses of insects and other contaminations. This build-up can result in the growth of bacteria which can have an impact on the hygiene of your home and the health of your family. 

Energy Efficiency: Clogged ducts can reduce airflow by up to 80% and forces your AC to work much harder, adding significantly to your energy bill. Replacing old ducting will work to save on running costs of your AC system all year.

Increasing the life of your AC: Clean ducting also has the added benefit of maximising the life of your air conditioner. Build up of contaminants and reduced airflow means that your AC system has to work much harder to perform the heating and cooling, which shortens the life cycle of any system. At HunterCON we always recommend putting in new ducts with each new system installation.

If you have any questions about whether or not you should replace your ducts, or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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What type of AC system is best for you?

By | Air Conditioning

While it might be an easy decision to invest in an air conditioning system to cool down or heat up your home, it can be tricky to choose what type of system you install.

So what are your options when it comes to air conditioning systems? Read on to find out which choice is best for you.

 

Window AC Unit

A window air conditioning system is one of the simplest and cheapest AC systems for your home. This system is mounted on windows or walls and is a single unit that is assembled in a casing where all the components are located. While they are relatively cheap to purchase and easy to install yourself, they can be loud and can cause energy bills to skyrocket. This system is only recommended for rooms that do not require sufficient heating or cooling all the time, which is rare in Australia’s climate.

Split system

Split systems are the most popular type of air conditioning units for homes, and are designed to cool and/or heat either small or large residential areas. A split air conditioner consists of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit is installed on or near the exterior wall of the room that you wish to cool. This unit houses the compressor, condenser coil and the expansion coil or capillary tubing. The sleek-looking indoor unit contains the cooling coil, a long blower and an air filter. A split system can be a great choice, as they are relatively noise-free as well as sleek and subtle in their design. While the initial cost of split air conditioning units is significantly higher than a window unit, and it does require professional installation they are much more energy-efficient, saving you money in the long-run.

Multi-split system

If you require multiple rooms or various room temperatures, multi-split systems are the way to go. They function the same as a split system, however, comprise of a single outdoor unit connected to multiple independent indoor units. This can be an excellent solution for households and buildings with specific needs. It is important to note that due to the increased number of indoor units, the cost of a multi-split system can be significantly higher than that or a single split system.

Ducted system 

Alternatively to the window units, split and multi-split AC systems, ducted systems are the ‘whole home’ air condition solution and are capable of controlling the temperature and humidity in every room of the house. A ducted air conditioning system works through its internal unit, which is installed within the roof space of the home. A series of ducts run from the air conditioning unit to each of the rooms in the home, allowing you to cool or heat each room using individual controls. Due to the unit being installed in the roof, ducted air conditioning is definitely the most aesthetic AC option. Additionally, ducted systems are the fastest working, most energy-efficient, and with a reverse cycle, system can allow you to heat your home too. 

Each possible air conditioning system has a number of advantages and disadvantages which are important to weigh up before you make a decision. If you have any questions about which AC is right for you, or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Ceiling fans versus air conditioning units

By | Air Conditioning

It is always important to keep cool during the warmer months of the year. When it comes to installing a cooling system in your home, you may be wondering whether ceiling fans or an air conditioning unit is the best choice. You might have heard that ceiling fans aren’t as effective as air conditioners. Or maybe you think air conditioners will cost you a fortune in power bills?
ceiling fans

Both ceiling fans and air conditioners have great benefits, and the best choice for your home will depend entirely on your unique needs. To make the decision a little bit easier, we have compared ceiling fans and AC units for you. Read on to find out more. 

 

Initial costs

For many, the initial cost of their cooling system will be a very important consideration. To put it simply, ceiling fans are much cheaper to install, with the initial outlay starting at just a few hundred dollars per fan. Keep in mind, however, that the cost of ceiling fans will be multiplied by the number of rooms you want to cool in your home. Alternatively, the price of a single split system air conditioner will start from $1500 and must be fully installed by a qualified refrigeration mechanic and electrician.

Running costs

While initial costs are an essential factor to recognise, so too are the running costs of your cooling system. Ceiling fans are highly economical, operating for as little as 1c per hour. While air conditioners are a little more expensive to run, they are quickly becoming much more cost-effective as technology improves.

Effectiveness

While cost saving is important, you want to ensure that you have made an investment which will do what it is supposed to do: keep you cool! Ceiling fans are effective in creating a cooling breeze on a humid or stuffy day; however, air conditioning units have the ability to actually bring the temperature of your home down by a few degrees. There is no doubt that an AC unit will be much more effective in keeping you cool, however, whether you need that much cooling or not is entirely up to you.

Combining ceiling fans and air conditioning units

If you’re living in a shifting climate, there can be significant benefits in installing both air conditioning and ceiling fans. In fact, running a ceiling fan and an air conditioner at the same time can increase room comfort as well as save energy. When the AC is running, ceiling fans can be used to circulate the cool air around the room, making people feel even cooler. This allows you to turn down the core temperature of your AC which has impressive cost-saving benefits. Air conditioning units and ceiling fans can be used in the cooler months to make your house warm too, making the combination a worthwhile investment.

With over 9 years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Air Conditioning Breakdowns FIX

Prepare you AC unit for the Summer

By | Air Conditioning

While your air conditioning unit might get used all year round, we all know that Summer is the season when it will have its biggest workout.
Air Conditioning Breakdowns FIX

Using your air conditioner all Summer can be costly, but there are a few things you can do to prepare your system for the warmer months, which might even save you a bit of money! Read on to find out.

 

Change your filters

Replacing filters is one of the easiest things you can do to maintain the health of your AC unit and prepare it for hard work in the Summertime. Through replacing the filters when needed, you can keep your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently. A dirty or clogged air filter means that your air conditioner has to work harder to keep your home cool, which results in higher energy costs for you and can lead to the need for premature and costly repairs. Your air filter should be inspected monthly and replaced as necessary. Typically, air filter replacements cost just a few dollars at your local grocery store and take just a minute to install.

Clean Condensation lines

In addition to cooling your home, an air conditioner works to remove moisture from the air to lower the humidity level inside your house. This excess condensed water is removed from the AC unit through a small drain pipe and over time, algae, mould, and mildew can build up inside the condensation drain line and form a clog. This, in turn, can cause water to back up and overflow inside the air conditioner unit. Always ensure that this pipe is clean and unclogged and clean it if necessary to ensure the smooth running of your AC unit.

Adjust the thermostat

While it is extremely important to stay nice and cool in the Summer, cooling can be expensive. In the hotter seasons set the temperature to 25 or 26 degrees. This is because every degree below 25 can add around 10% to its running costs. This will not only save you money on your bill but ensure your AC unit is not running over-time to keep your home cool.

Clean the outside unit

During the months when you don’t use your AC as much, the outdoor unit can be prone to collecting dust, mud and other debris, which can contribute to the poor running of your air conditioner. Consider placing a cover on the unit to protect it from dirt, or otherwise, give the unit a good clean, paying extra attention to the coils. Note that this may require you to disconnect the unit. Cleaning the fins on the outside unit will also help your AC run better. Use a small, soft brush and gently run the brush across each fin.

Check for leaky ductworks

Sealing leaky ducts can generate significant savings on heating and cooling. In fact, leaky ductwork can make your AC unit work up to 50% harder than it should to keep you cool! Look out for loose joints, separated pieces and small holes in your ductwork. If you find leaks, seal them with tape. It is important to note that fabric and rubber-backed tapes break down quicker.

Through undergoing these measures, you will ensure your AC unit is in tip-top shape to carry you through the heat of Summer. If you have any questions about using your AC in the warmer months or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over 9 years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Relocating your air conditioner unit

By | Air Conditioning

There are many reasons why you might like to relocate or move an air conditioner or even reposition ducted air system vents. Whether you are renovating, changing up your furniture or maybe even moving homes altogether, your air conditioner is a valuable investment that you want to get the most out of.

So, before you go touching wires and pipes yourself, read our information about relocating air conditioner units.

 

Never relocate an air conditioner yourself

With electricity and refrigerant involved, HunterCON advises that is definitely safest NOT to touch your air conditioner yourself. Even the slightest movement of your unit may damage it and invalidate your warranty. Not to mention the hazards and risks involved in dealing with electricity. Furthermore, you won’t have the re-gassing and gas recovery tools necessary to get the job done in a safe and timely manner. Air conditioner relocation is a specialist job that should only be carried out by experienced and qualified professionals. At HunterCON, our technicians can expertly move your split system air conditioner or ducted air conditioning vents, including all the electrical wiring, so you don’t have to hire an electrician separately.

Temporary relocation of an air conditioner

You may only need to move your air conditioner temporarily, in order to make small changes to your home such as painting or moving furniture. The first thing we do before temporarily moving an air conditioner unit is to use the compressor to safely pump the refrigerant back down into the compressor unit. After safely disconnecting the power, we seal the pipes and solder it closed, and then extend or shorten the copper wire in accordance to it’s needs. After that, the unit is placed back where it was, or we put it in its new location so that you can make the necessary changes to your home. We then reconnect the unit, using a vacuum gauge to exterminate all remnants of moisture and air; that way we ensure that only pure refrigerant is returned to the system before recharging. Last, we re-level the unit, move the pad, reinstate the power and restart the system, testing it thoroughly to ensure that it’s working as well as it did before the move.

Permanent relocation of an air conditioner

For permanent moves of air conditioning units, we follow basically the same steps, with just one noteworthy difference. Instead of simply pumping the refrigerant back into the compressor, for longer-term moves we pump it into a purpose-built storage bottle…which is always clinically clean. The refrigerant is very expensive, especially for larger air conditioning systems, so it is crucial that this is done correctly. It is clear that this job is complex and must be handled by a professional for both safety and environmental reasons.

Important note

It is important to remember that your air conditioning unit will only be covered by its warranty while it remains in its original location. In most cases, after you have moved your AC unit, your warranty will be lost, even if it was handled by a professional.

Whether for a short or long-term move, relocating your air conditioner is a tricky and time consuming process. At HunterCON we guarantee that we will get the job done as quickly and reliably as possible.

If you have any questions about relocating your air conditioner or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over 9 years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Extending the life of your air conditioner

By | Air Conditioning

Coming into the warmer season, it’s fair to say your air conditioner is going to be used a lot more. Having an air conditioner is a great way to make sure that your home remains cool and comfortable, even on the hottest and most sweltering days of the year. It is also important to remember that air conditioners are machines that need to be maintained and cared for. The cost of replacing or repairing an air conditioning unit can be very expensive, but there are things that you can do to extend the life of your air conditioner unit.
conditioner

Check out these handy tips to help extend the life of your air conditioner so you can use it for many summers to come.

Replace filters

Replacing filters is one of the easiest things you can do to prolong the life of your air conditioner, however, it is very often overlooked. Through replacing the filters when needed, you can keep your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently. A dirty or clogged air filter means that your air conditioner has to work harder to keep your home cool, which results in higher energy costs for you and can lead to the need for premature and costly repairs. Your air filter should be inspected monthly and replaced as necessary. Typically, air filter replacements cost just a few dollars at your local grocery store and take just a minute to install.

Clean air ducts regularly

If the air ducts in your home are dirty, your air conditioning unit has to work harder to run, which ends up costing you significantly more. Furthermore, leaky ducts will require an air conditioning unit to work harder than necessary to keep your space nice and cool. By taking the time to clean out your air ducts with a duster and/or vacuum cleaner on a monthly basis (at least), you can prolong the life of your air conditioning unit and save yourself money on your energy bills in the process.

Types of meters

There are many types of meters which all have various components. Use this guide to identify what kind of meter you have and how to read it properly. 

Give your AC a rest

Although it is hard to resist keeping the air conditioner on all day throughout summer, giving your AC a rest is very important. When air conditioners are constantly run, they tend to wear out quicker. It is important to turn the air conditioner off if you plan on leaving home for any length of time.

Allow air to circulate

Your Air Conditioning unit works hard to pump cold air into your home, so proper airflow is needed for the air conditioner to operate efficiently. It is important to clear any obstructions from the air vents in your home.
Your system will not have to work as hard to circulate cool air in the home if all of the vents are opened and unobstructed, allowing the air to pass through freely.

Trim garden growth

If you have a central air conditioning unit, make sure that it is free of obstructions that would keep it from circulating air properly such as trees and shrubs. Having shrubs and bushes growing too close to the unit can also cause it to overheat. Generally, the unit should have at least 36 inches of clear space around it for proper ventilation. 

By following these basic tips, you can ensure that your air conditioner lasts you for a long time to come, helping you avoid unnecessary repair and replacement cost.

If you have any questions about prolonging the life of your AC, or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over 9 years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.