Improving the Effectiveness of Your Air Conditioning

As the weather heats up in the Acadiana area of Louisiana, residents rely on air conditioning for indoor comfort. Despite high temperatures and high humidity, there are ways to improve the effectiveness of your air conditioning system. Ceiling fans, window shades, curtains and landscaping help reduce the load on your system. However, according to the Department of Energy, regular AC maintenance is one of the most effective ways to optimize performance and comfort.

Elements of HVAC Maintenance

The factory-trained experts at Fontenot’s Cooling and Heating thoroughly inspect and calibrate every component of your HVAC system during a scheduled maintenance session. We look at how each element performs independently and how the system performs as a unit. We check refrigerant, calibrate the thermostat, clean the drip pan, change or clean the filter and check controls. We also clean the coils, lubricate fans and check wiring and voltage. In addition, we look for holes or loose or leaky joins in ductwork.

Benefits of AC Maintenance

Seasonal tune-ups have long-lasting benefits. Preventive maintenance reduces the likelihood of a breakdown by up to 95 percent, which saves money on AC repairs. Keeping the unit tuned-up reduces demand on the compressor and extends the life of the unit. In addition, many manufacturers require seasonal tune-ups to keep warranties valid.

Poor maintenance can increase energy usage by 30 to 60 percent. Simply cleaning the filter can reduce energy usage by up to 15 percent. Leaking ducts allow as much as 30 percent of conditioned air to escape, reducing efficiency by up to 20 percent. Dirty coils can increase energy use by up to 30 percent. It all adds up to saving energy, saving money and increasing comfort.

When to Replace a Unit

If you are encountering frequent or expensive AC repairs, it may be time to replace your unit. If your air conditioner is at least 10 years old, you can save between 20 and 40 percent in energy costs with a new, energy efficient model. The NATE-certified technicians at Fontenot’s Cooling and Heating can check the performance of your unit and recommend reliable products to save you money and keep you comfortable. We are Trane Comfort Specialists but also install and service all major brands of HVAC equipment.

To find out more about the benefits of regular AC maintenance, call us at (337) 706-9469.