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What Consumer Reports Says About AC Maintenance

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images.jpgAt AC World we’re always ready to explain to our potential clients why ductless air conditioners are a great choice and chief among those reasons is the fact that they don’t require the type of maintenance that older models do. That said, we’re always looking for ways to help people get as much from their current cooling systems as possible.

That’s why we were particularly interested in a recent article from CBS Pittsburgh titled  Consumer Reports: Advice On Avoiding Air-Conditioner Breakdowns. They did indeed share some good advice and we’d like to share some of it with you.

Sarah Arbogast writes, “To see which brands you can count on, Consumer Reports surveyed more than 16,000 of its subscribers. For conventional systems, American Standard proved more reliable than other brands. Amanas are more likely to break; Consumer Reports estimates about 30 percent break within five years.

Heat-pump air conditioners are popular in areas with moderate temperature swings between summer and winter. Among heat-pump systems, American Standard again is among the more reliable, along with Bryant. York and Goodman are more likely to break. Consumer Reports estimates about 50 percent will break within five years.

Even the most reliable air-conditioning system will let you down if you don’t maintain it. Here’s how:

  • Check and clean filters monthly.
  • Clear debris and leaves from around the condenser coils
  • Make sure hedges and plants are at least two feet away from the compressor.
  • Check for blockages in the drainpipe.
  • Check insulation around ducts. Bolstering insulation and sealing leaks can help prevent as much as a 40 percent energy loss.
  • Once a year, bring in a licensed professional to check things like refrigerant and mechanical components.”

As far as maintaining traditional units goes, this is good advice. Of course, the better advice is to consider a  ductless air conditioner. It will not only allow you to save money on electricity but the maintenance is much easier than a more expensive, traditional unit.

AC World can help you decide on the right unit for your home or business. With our years of experience, we’re a leader in the industry and our professional staff is always ready to help you better understand your options and their benefits.