4 Things New Homeowners Need To Know About Their Central Air Conditioning

If you've recently purchased a home with central air conditioning, you're in luck. Central AC is one of the most effective and efficient means of cooling your entire home, so you can enjoy comfortable temperatures in every room even on the hottest of days! As a new homeowner, however, there are some things you need to know about maintaining your central AC system.

Annual Inspections Are a Must

First of all, if you don't already have a service contract with your HVAC company, now is the time to purchase one. Many HVAC companies offer service plans for an annual fee that will include a thorough inspection and tune-up of not only your central air conditioning unit, but your furnace as well. These annual inspections are a great way to keep your AC in good working order, avoid costly repairs, and maximize efficiency.

Landscaping Must Be Trimmed Back

Take a look at your outdoor central AC unit. Do you have any landscaping around it? If so, make sure it's trimmed back away from the unit itself. Otherwise, leaves, branches, and debris could clog the fan or other parts of the unit itself. This could lead to costly repairs and reduce the efficiency of the unit itself Invest in a quality hedge trimmer to keep shrubs and plants away from growing into the unit.

Filters Should Be Changed Regularly

Your AC air filter is actually located inside your furnace, but all air that runs through your home's HVAC system runs through that filter before it hits your vents. This filter is responsible for removing dust, pet hair, allergens, and other particles from the air you breathe. However, filters don't last forever, so you'll need to change yours our regularly. Most filters should be changed about once every two months.

A Protective Cover is a Wise Investment

If you live in a region where your AC isn't utilized for part of the year, consider investing in a cover (such as a tarp) that you can place over the unit for protection during cooler seasons. This will protect the unit from rust, corrosion, and other damage. Just remember to remove the cover before you start your AC for the first time next spring or summer!

Being a new homeowner can be a bit overwhelming, but with these tips in mind, taking care of your central air conditioning unit can be the least of your worries. For more information or assistance, contact companies like Allied Mechanical & Electrical, Inc.