You can delay or avoid thermostat repair with proper maintenance. A well-maintained thermostat generally lasts about 10 years. Although one of the least expensive HVAC components to replace, it’s crucial for reaching and sustaining optimal temperatures in your home.

A thermostat is wired directly to your heating and cooling system. It allows for the temperature to be adjusted and the system to be turned on and off manually or automatically. Therefore, thermostat maintenance should be part of your routine. These are some thermostat maintenance tips to keep it in top shape.

1. Check and Replace Thermostat Batteries Regularly

One of the simplest fixes for home thermostat problems is simply checking the batteries. A low battery reduces the amount of power available to your thermostat. This can make it inaccurate and less able to manage your comfort. To avoid these issues, replace the thermostat batteries every six months or as the manufacturer recommends.

Even if your thermostat is hardwired, it may have backup batteries. Change these to prevent disruptions in heating and cooling due to a wiring issue.

2. Keep the Thermostat Clean and Dust-Free

One of the best thermostat upkeep practices to get into the habit of is keeping the unit as clean as possible. A buildup of dirt and dust can prevent your thermostat from working properly. Cleaning it every few months can help you avoid HVAC performance issues due to controller malfunctions, and it gives you a chance to look inside and check for other signs you need thermostat repair. Here’s how to clean a thermostat:

• Step one: Snap off or unscrew the cover, depending on the model.
• Step two: Using a soft brush, dust off internal components.
• Step three: Use compressed air to clear debris from tight spaces.
• Step four: Look for loose or corroded wires and call an electrician to fix any issues.
• Step five: Clean the cover and place it back on the unit.

3. Test Your Thermostat Settings Monthly

Thermostat testing and calibration ensure that the system is accurately reading temperature, allowing it more control over your home’s HVAC systems. If the temperature keeps fluctuating, your energy bills are increasing, or causing HVAC thermostat issues like short cycling, your thermostat may need calibration.

To calibrate a thermostat, first test it by comparing its reading with a dependable thermometer. If the readings differ by more than 3ºF after 20 minutes, check the product manual for how to calibrate the unit. Calibration techniques differ based on the type and model of a thermostat.

4. Install the Thermostat in the Right Location

When people ask how to maintain a thermostat, one aspect that’s often overlooked is the placement. Constant exposure to high heat can damage a thermostat, so the unit should not be near a heat source, such as direct sunlight, a vent, or an appliance. To protect its integrity and accuracy, it should be mounted on an interior wall in or near a frequently used room. Excess heat can cause inaccurate readings, affect the cycling and efficiency of your HVAC system, and increase the likelihood you’ll need thermostat repair.

5. Seal and Insulate Around the Thermostat

Drafts and other temperature irregularities can throw off your thermostat settings. That’s why sealing and insulating the area around the thermostat is essential during installation. This ensures it gets an accurate reading of the temperature in the room instead of drafts inside your walls or elsewhere.

6. Update Thermostat Software (for Smart Models)

Smart thermostat maintenance has some unique considerations compared to standard models. You can often save yourself hours of digital thermostat troubleshooting simply by resetting and updating the software on your unit. Often, this resolves error codes and any other issues you’re facing.

7. Schedule Seasonal HVAC Tune-Ups

Don’t wait to see signs of thermostat failure to get help! By prioritizing proactive maintenance at least once a year, you’ll get ahead of potential problems while tuning up your HVAC systems at the same time, ensuring they’re ready to run smoothly all year.

8. Improve Indoor Air Quality to Support Thermostat Accuracy

Your indoor air quality has a surprising effect on your thermostat’s accuracy. Part of programmable thermostat care is ensuring the air in your home is clean enough to give an accurate temperature reading. Excess dust, debris, and humidity in your indoor air can prevent the sensors in your thermostat from working properly, which means an IAQ solution can help your HVAC systems run more reliably.

9. Upgrade to a Smart or Programmable Thermostat

Smart thermostats don’t just offer convenience — they save you as much as 10% a year on energy costs and even extend the lifespan of HVAC systems. These advanced systems offer far better reliability than traditional models, making them well worth the investment.

10. Know When to Call a Professional for Thermostat Help

If the above maintenance tips aren’t solving your thermostat troubles, it’s time to call an expert. Here at Trio, thermostat services are a daily job for us, and our team has the experience to troubleshoot even the toughest issues. Whether you have a smart thermostat or a conventional one, leave it to us to get it working as it should again.

Final Tip: Bundle Thermostat Service With Air Quality Upgrades

When you work with Trio Heating, Air and Plumbing, bundling thermostat maintenance with indoor air quality upgrades is an easy, affordable way to boost your home’s comfort across the board. Since thermostat service is usually a very quick job, it just makes sense to combine this with other services, such as duct cleaning, air sealing, air scrubber installation, or even putting in a whole-house air purifier.

Call to Action: Get Expert Thermostat Help From TRIO

We provide high-quality thermostat installation, repair, and maintenance in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, CA. Our licensed HVAC technicians can help no matter what type of thermostat repair you need. They can service manual, digital, programmable, and smart models. As part of our Protection Plan, thermostat maintenance is performed during your annual AC and heating system tune-up.

To learn more or book thermostat services for your home, contact us online or call (415) 223-5096.

At TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing , we’re proudly upgrading our service vehicles to a Tesla fleet. This signifies the principle behind our new slogan: “TRIO: Where Sustainability Meets Service Excellence”. Aside from planting a tree for every job we do (which means a great deal for the region), we’re committed to environmental sustainability and high-quality service in every aspect of our work, down to the vehicles our employees drive.

Until now, we have relied on gas-powered vans. Investing in Teslas is allowing us to convert to an eco-friendly all-electric fleet. Safety is another reason for our initiative. The autopilot feature in Tesla cars adds a new level of protection. It’s one of many features that help reduce accidents; therefore, our sales team and service technicians are safer on the job. 

Tesla vehicles are reliable and convenient so our employees can be happy at work, which we know contributes to higher quality service. We also know how much Tesla means in the Bay Area. Here’s a look at the benefits of a Tesla and how it can improve a fleet.

Benefits of Teslas

Driving a Tesla doesn’t only improve safety. It has many other perks that benefit casual drivers and businesses. These benefits include:

• Impressive Battery Range: Although battery range depends on the Tesla model, driving range is rarely a problem, especially for city driving or commuting. Some Teslas are capable of traveling 320+ miles on a single charge. That means they’re suited for long-distance driving or traveling from site to site during the workday. And, with the battery placed on the bottom of the vehicle, a lower center of gravity prevents the car from rolling over.
• Save Money on Gas: With high gasoline prices, your budget can be strained by fuel costs alone. On average, a full battery charge costs less than half the price of filling up the tank. Teslas are fully electric so you never have to buy any gasoline. Charging stations can be installed in virtually any home or business, so you start your day with a full charge.
• A Large Network of Charging Stations: Tesla’s supercharger network consists of over 30,000 stations, where a 15-minute charge can yield a 200-mile range. A full battery charge can sometimes be achieved in an hour and a half or less. The company’s charging stations are known for being dependable and accessible. Therefore, charging an EV battery in the field can be achieved quickly and easily, with minimal disruption to workflow.
• More Eco-Friendly: Tesla vehicles don’t use traditional fuel. Therefore, they help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the burning of fossil fuels. This contributes to a smaller carbon footprint. Our crews can drive around all day and not produce the environmental pollution that traditional cars and trucks do. Tesla has indeed helped TRIO’s efforts to be more sustainable.
• Over-the-Air Updates: With Tesla, you need not worry about outdated features and technology. The cars are built to last. Meanwhile, software updates enable Tesla owners/operators to take advantage of new features and services as they become available. They have allowed users to interact with vehicle cameras and speakers via their cell phones. Some updates have even improved vehicle functionality by, for example, adding engine horsepower or modifying battery or wheel performance.
• Few Maintenance Requirements: Teslas require hardly any maintenance, which further reduces costs and downtime. They don’t need oil changes, spark plug replacements, or new fuel filters. The regenerative braking system used in Tesla vehicles rarely requires new brake pads. Air and cabin filters need replacement every 2 to 3 years while the AC desiccant bag lasts roughly 6 years.
• Security Features: Numerous security features are included in Teslas. Eight cameras help improve safety and also help keep your vehicle more secure. Sentry Mode helps protect your car from intruders by detecting signs of trouble and flashing the headlights to ward off unwanted guests. It also displays a message on the infotainment screen to remind outsiders they’re being recorded. 

The system sends smartphone notifications as well. An app lets you view live feeds and speak through a vehicle’s exterior speaker. Or, you can view recorded footage once you return to your car. Additionally, Teslas let you shut off certain features and lock the trunk or glove box remotely, which limits access to them by, for example, valet personnel.

Why Upgrade a Service Fleet with Teslas

Upgrading an entire fleet may seem like a big investment, but these vehicles have 5-star NHTSA safety ratings in every category. The low risk of injury means our workers are always protected. Their day is also easier. Remote diagnostics and mobile service benefit drivers by saving them time and allowing them to focus on their job duties. 

Tesla accommodates all types of drivers. The company’s fleet and business program is designed to help turn your fleet all-electric and reduce your organization’s environmental impact. You can also take advantage of tax incentives to further reduce operational costs, on top of savings on gas and maintenance expenses.

However, Tesla doesn’t only benefit your bottom line. Driving one also benefits the community. With the low probability of accidents and injuries, using features such as Autopilot contributes to safer roads. Therefore, we’re helping keep people throughout The Greater San Francisco Bay Area and the Bay Area safe.

Here’s yet another perk. California permits Tesla owners to use HOV lanes without occupancy restrictions. This allows our sales and service teams to get to work sites more efficiently.

How TRIO Plans to Introduce Its Tesla Fleet

Switching to an all-electric fleet of vehicles is a big undertaking. Since we want to ensure our customers see uninterrupted service, we’re slowly converting from our gas-powered vans to a full fleet of electric vehicles. Taking a phased approach allows us to ensure the process goes more smoothly and our fleet is 100% reliable when it’s complete. Therefore we can continue prioritizing our customers’ needs and the lasting performance of their AC, heating, and indoor air quality systems.

TRIO: Where Sustainability Meets Service Excellence

Whether you need help with air conditioning or heating installation, repair, or maintenance, TRIO has you covered. Our sustainability initiatives, including upgrading our gas-powered vans to all-electric Teslas, will allow even faster customer service response times. We can also continue to guarantee the highest quality work and provide the best products and brands on the market. 

A professionally trained team ensures your home is comfortable, safe, and energy efficient. Aside from AC and heating equipment, they install and service thermostats, insulate attics and crawlspaces, and provide duct cleaning and sealing. To learn more about these and our air scrubbers and whole-house purification systems, or request service, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-1647.

At some point, most homeowners face the decision to repair or replace their air conditioning system. A repair is often more cost-effective up-front. However, AC replacement can have many benefits. Your air conditioning contractor can help you decide and weigh the benefits of each option. We’ll look at a few perks of replacing your AC unit and when a repair is the best choice for now.

Reasons You Should Consider AC Replacement

There are many benefits to replacing your air conditioner. While you may have become attached to your AC over the past few years, a replacement may be the right decision. These are some reasons to go this route:

• Repair Costs Are Adding Up: Even if your AC needs a minor repair, it can cost hundreds of dollars. You may pay thousands of dollars for a major repair. But even if you’re not facing repair bills that high, consider how frequently your AC requires service. To determine if a repair is worth it, multiply the estimated repair cost by the unit’s age; if it exceeds the cost of a new model, go with AC replacement. Or, if a repair costs over 50% of installation, replace the system.
• Your AC Is Aging: Most home ACs last 10 to 15 years, but depending on the system, they can last longer. However, a unit older than 10 years that requires extensive repairs should usually be replaced. Older air conditioners are less efficient to begin with, and they’re more likely to break down and require additional repairs. You’re just wasting money by fixing a 20-year-old air conditioner time and again.
• Energy Efficiency Is Decreasing: An AC works less efficiently as it ages. Also, older models weren’t designed to be as energy-efficient as modern ones. Higher energy bills are one disadvantage of keeping your aging AC going. You may also be dealing with temperature control issues. A new air conditioner provides more consistent temperatures while saving on energy each month.
• Indoor Air Quality Is On the Decline: A malfunctioning air conditioner is less effective at maintaining good indoor air quality. Excessive dust, particulates, and other pollutants can lead to respiratory and other health issues. Replacing an old AC is one of the best ways to improve indoor air quality. Newer units have more effective filters and are designed to newer standards that require homes to have cleaner air.
• Old ACs Can Be Hazardous: An aging air conditioner can be a safety risk. Worn components and faulty wiring can increase the risk of a fire. Some systems still use R-22 Freon, which depletes the ozone layer and is an environmental hazard. If your AC has a coolant leak, it’s an immediate risk to your health and safety, as refrigerant is toxic.

Can I Get By with an AC Repair?

You may not yet need AC replacement if there are issues such as:

• Warm air blowing due to a faulty or incorrectly set thermostat, dirty filter, or restricted airflow caused by clogged ducts.
• A refrigerant leak if a line can be sealed and your AC system uses the latest acceptable refrigerant.
• The air conditioner runs constantly due to a clogged filter, dirty coil, low refrigerant, or a malfunctioning thermostat.
• Loud, unusual noises are caused by a loose, dirty, or damaged part; in this case, the affected part can be cleaned or replaced.
• Restricted airflow from vents, which can be resolved by cleaning or sealing air ducts or fixing the motor or blower.

How Do I Decide on AC Repair or AC Replacement?

To make a decision, you need to determine the cause of the issue. Many AC issues, even if the system is older, are caused by simple problems. The more complex the issue or the more components it involves, the more likely your HVAC contractor will recommend AC replacement. Therefore, a technician must evaluate the extent of the damage. A repair makes sense if it entails replacing a small, inexpensive part; if the system is over 15 years old and requires a large, costly part, it should be replaced.

Contact TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing

Our fully trained technicians can provide any type of AC repair and help you decide when it’s time for AC replacement. We install top-quality makes and models and ensure they provide reliable comfort and operate efficiently. During air conditioning installation, we find the right model and size of unit for your home, remove your old system, install the new one, and test it to ensure it performs as intended. For more information, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5096.

Several air conditioner maintenance tasks, whether DIY or completed by a reputable air conditioning company, help keep your home cool, improve energy efficiency, and avoid major repairs. That’s why we recommend scheduling AC maintenance at least once a year. If you want your air conditioning system to cool reliably and last longer, remember these important AC maintenance tips.

How Often Should You Perform AC Maintenance?

Homeowners should complete basic AC maintenance tasks every 1 to 3 months and schedule a professional tune-up annually. Scheduling AC maintenance in the spring prepares the system for peak demand during the summer. By completing maintenance before peak season, technicians can identify problems early, optimize performance, and minimize the risk of AC breakdowns during the hottest months.

1. Check the Filter and Replace It As Needed (Most Important)

A clean air filter keeps airflow strong and protects the entire system. Checking and replacing the filter is a simple DIY task that takes only a little time. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and increasing energy consumption. It can also trap dust and allergens, sending them back into your home and affecting indoor air quality.

To replace AC air filters, turn off the HVAC system, open the service panel, slide the filter out, and replace it with a compatible filter. Replace disposable air filters every 1 to 3 months depending on usage, allergies, pets, and your home environment.

2. Clean the Indoor Unit Surface & Vents

Dust and debris naturally collect on the indoor unit and vents, reducing airflow and contributing to odors or poor indoor air quality. Excessive dust can also accumulate on the evaporator coil and blower motor, accelerating wear and reducing AC performance.

To clean the indoor unit, wipe it down with a clean cloth or feather duster. You can also spray a cloth with a cleaning or antibacterial solution and wipe down the casing. Clean supply and return grilles by vacuuming the openings and wiping down the surfaces. For a more thorough cleaning of internal components, hire a qualified HVAC technician.

3. Check Your Thermostat + Optimize Settings

One way to know your AC is working properly is to verify that the thermostat setting and air temperature match. Programmable and smart thermostats should show the current temperature and automatically turn the system on and off to maintain the set temperature.

Verify the thermostat’s sensor accuracy by comparing it against another thermometer. If the numbers differ, check if the thermostat is properly set to cool. Exposure to sunlight, radiators, drafts, and other factors can also prevent accurate sensing. If inconsistencies continue, a technician may need to evaluate wiring, sensor placement, or airflow.

4. Inspect and Clear the Condensate Drain Line

Your air conditioner collects condensation during cooling cycles, and a built-in tray and drain line direct this moisture outdoors. Mold, algae, and other grime can block the drain and cause water to back up and overflow, leading to possible odors and water damage.

Clean the drain using a wet/dry vacuum. For severe blockages, contact an AC maintenance professional.

5. Keep the Outdoor Condenser Clean and Clear

The outdoor AC condenser unit is exposed to dirt, leaves, twigs, and other debris that can collect around it, causing mechanical strain, blocking airflow, and increasing the risk of overheating. Maintain at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit and use these DIY strategies:

• Remove nearby storage boxes or garden equipment
• Wipe the casing with a damp cloth
• Remove debris with a vacuum and brush attachment
• Use a garden hose to gently spray the casing and fins

6. Make Sure Your AC System Is Properly Insulated

The insulation surrounding your AC’s copper refrigerant line helps maintain thermal efficiency. If you find broken, crumbling, or missing insulation and exposed pipe sections, call a licensed contractor. Do not replace this insulation yourself.

7. Schedule a Duct Cleaning

Though not required as frequently as other maintenance, duct cleaning every 3 to 5 years helps extend your AC’s lifespan. Clean ducts enable proper airflow, reduce contaminants, and improve efficiency. This service requires specialized tools and professional technicians.

8. Schedule Annual Maintenance

Annual AC maintenance is the most effective way to extend system life, increase energy efficiency, and prevent breakdowns. A licensed technician provides comprehensive service, including:

• Thorough cleaning
• Lubrication of moving parts
• Electrical inspections
• Filter replacement
• Refrigerant level checks
• Thermostat checks
• Blower motor inspection
• Ductwork evaluation
• Evaporator coil cleaning
• Condensate drain line clearing

What Homeowners Can Safely Check Themselves

Homeowners can safely perform tasks like replacing filters or adjusting the thermostat. These tasks don’t involve internal components or electrical systems. Leave anything involving refrigerant, wiring, motors, or coils to professionals. Here's a helpful checklist.

Common AC Problems Prevented by Routine Maintenance

Regular HVAC maintenance helps stop problems before they begin. Benefits include prevention of:

• Frozen evaporator coils
• Water damage from blocked drains
• Weak airflow due to dust buildup
• Overheating or short cycling
• Premature compressor failure
• High energy bills

Signs Your AC Needs Maintenance ASAP

If your system shows signs of trouble, professional attention is needed. Contact TRIO for AC maintenance if you notice:

• Warm air or inconsistent temperatures
• Strange noises
• Leaks near the indoor unit
• Frozen evaporator coils
• Frequent cycling
• Spiking energy bills
• Musty odors or allergy symptoms

Call TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing for AC Maintenance

Reliable AC maintenance supports comfort, efficiency, and system longevity. TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing offers tailored services for Bay Area homeowners. To schedule a tune-up or learn more about our protection plans, contact us today.

Ductwork transports heated or cooled air from your HVAC unit to every living space in your home. To be efficient, it must be installed properly. There are many considerations for duct replacement that, if not addressed, can lead to poor AC or furnace performance and increased energy consumption. Improper installation can also reduce indoor air quality. Below, we’ll look at best practices for ductwork replacement to avoid these issues.

Use Industry-Approved Materials

In some older homes, cavities in walls, ceilings, and floors double as airways. These are not efficient carriers of conditioned air. Air ducts must be used and can be made of sheet metal, such as galvanized steel, which is strong and durable but tough to insulate. Fiberglass is pre-insulated and easy to cut and seal but is prone to wear. Flexible non-metallic materials (plastic, fiberglass, or PVC) are common and are convenient to install in corners and other tight spaces. However, they’re prone to tearing.

An HVAC technician can help decide on the best material based on the application, your home’s layout, and its heating/cooling needs.

Consider Location and Placement

Ductwork design should never be taken for granted. When in the design phase, the following factors must be addressed:

• Duct Length: Choose the shortest possible path so ducts don’t run too far to a specific area; otherwise, your home can have hot and cold spots.
• Exposure: Exposed ducts can cause extreme temperatures to affect conditioned air and strain your HVAC system. Make sure they’re placed behind walls, above ceilings, and under floors.
• Conditioned Spaces: Whenever possible, install ducts under raised floors or in a protected space known as a chase within a home’s thermal and air barrier.

Insulate Your Air Ducts

Some ductwork may run through an unconditioned basement, garage, or attic. Consult with your HVAC contractor about the best type of insulation to use. Insulating materials can be wrapped around ducts to minimize energy loss. Otherwise, heat can escape from the ducts, making your HVAC system inefficient and reducing comfort throughout your home.

Consider the Proper Duct Size

Air ducts should be the right size for your home and your HVAC system. If they’re too small, the system won’t have enough airflow to function properly. Ducts that are too big will reduce air velocity, affecting the distribution of conditioned air. 

To avoid such issues, a contractor will follow best practices such as calculating each room's required heating or cooling load and matching the proper duct size. To do this, they often use software that follows the Air Conditioning Contractors of America’s Manual D guidelines.

Perform Proper Duct Sealing

An HVAC installer uses various methods to seal air ducts to prevent energy loss and indoor air quality problems. Ductwork is typically attached in sections. The installation process then entails taking steps to minimize air leakage, such as:

• Connecting duct sections with screws and other fasteners.
• Sealing joints and seams with mastic or fiberglass mesh. 
• Using longer segments to reduce the number of pieces and connections needed. 
• Performing an air leakage test to ensure the system is airtight.

Make Sure the Airflow Is Balanced

An even distribution of conditioned air is dependent on having balanced airflow. Air balancing requires the supply and return ducts to have the same capacity, which yields neutral air pressure. It also requires having the appropriate number of supply and return registers throughout your home. This is why you need a professional who is experienced in ductwork design. 

Proper air balancing can:

• Maintain an optimal comfort level
• Improve your HVAC system’s energy efficiency
• Increase the lifespan of AC and heating equipment
• Prevent mold and other indoor air quality issues
• Avoid high energy bills and repair costs

Do I Need to Hire a Professional for Duct Replacement?

The ductwork in your home is complex. A trained, licensed professional can take every factor into account and perform the right calculations to ensure your duct system is properly sized and designed. Their insurance protects you from additional expenses and you also benefit from a commitment to customer satisfaction. Technicians have the proper knowledge, training, and tools to replace air ducts successfully while anticipating any issues along the way. They also test your HVAC system to ensure it works safely, reliably, and efficiently.

Contact TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing

We provide high-quality duct replacement, duct cleaning, and duct sealing services in and around The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, CA. Our qualified contractors meet the latest training and certification requirements, so every detail is covered when installing or servicing your ductwork. They also use the most advanced tools and technologies to ensure each project is successful. To get started, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5096 today.

Air conditioning repairs in Northern California can be expensive, but you can avoid a costly AC repair by being proactive with at-home and professional maintenance. Like any machine, an air conditioner has parts that wear out. However, equipment malfunctions and breakdowns are not inevitable. You can avoid calling for AC repair near you, and potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars (leaving more money in your budget), by following these tips:

• Don’t Forget Routine Maintenance
• Change the Air Filter as Recommended
• Avoid Overusing Your Air Conditioner
• Clean Around the Outdoor Unit
• Look For Dirt Inside the Unit
• Check the Thermostat Regularly
• Keep the Vents Open
• Inspect the Condensate Drain for Blockages

1. Don’t Forget Routine Maintenance

Your air conditioner should be tuned up at least once a year. Annual maintenance is the most effective way to avoid costly AC repairs. The system should be inspected, cleaned, and, if necessary, repaired before the cooling season starts. During maintenance, a technician should:

• Clean the evaporator and condenser coils
• Check refrigerant levels
• Lubricate moving parts
• Tighten electrical connections
• Address any electrical issues
• Look for and seal any duct leaks
• Check the thermostat and system controls
• Clear the condensate drain (if necessary)

2. Change the Air Filter as Recommended

A dirty or clogged air filter can reduce or block airflow. The air conditioner’s manufacturer will recommend the best interval for changing the filter. In general, an AC filter should be changed every one to three months, depending on the system and your home’s indoor air quality. Neglecting to replace the filter can reduce cooling performance, force the system to work harder, and lead to higher energy bills. Low airflow can also cause strain that damages the unit, requiring costly repairs.

3. Avoid Overusing Your Air Conditioner

The more you use your AC, the more wear and tear it will experience. Using an air conditioner less may not seem like an option during a hot summer. However, raising the thermostat by a few degrees not only saves energy but can also reduce the unit's demand. 

How can you do this without sacrificing comfort? Running a ceiling fan can make the temperature feel 3℉ or 4℉ cooler, offsetting a slight increase in the thermostat setting. Also, turn the AC off when you go to work, leave for a vacation, or are otherwise away from home.

4. Clean Around the Outdoor Unit

Debris can restrict airflow and potentially contaminate the system, especially if it builds up around the outdoor unit. Regularly check for leaves, branches, grass, dirt, and other items around the condenser unit. Also, trim foliage back. There should be at least two feet of clearance on all sides.

When cleaning the unit, make sure it is shaded. Direct sunlight can strain the system and overheat the compressor. Additionally, make sure there’s a barrier that prevents small animals from getting into the unit.

5. Look For Dirt Inside the Unit

Your AC’s coils and fins are prone to getting dirty. If they become coated, this can interfere with heat transfer and may also damage the coils, especially if they freeze. Combined with restricted airflow, dirt can cause the system to work harder and less efficiently. The unit can even overheat and break down. 

If you have some experience, you can turn off the system, open the unit, and vacuum out excess dirt. The coils and fins can be cleaned with a soft brush. But this may require removing the fan and other components. Call a professional if you notice the unit is dirty and you haven’t cleaned it before.

6. Check the Thermostat Regularly

The thermostat is a small part of your HVAC system but can malfunction and cause numerous issues. A faulty thermostat can cause your AC to run constantly or short cycle. Avoiding these issues can prevent wear and tear that can damage your air conditioner. 

Look for changes in accuracy to determine if your thermostat needs to be checked by a professional. This can indicate an issue with placement or a low battery. A wiring problem can also affect how the thermostat works and trigger an electric shock or a fire.

7. Keep the Vents Open

Don’t close vents in unused rooms. People often do this thinking they can save energy. However, closed vents can disrupt airflow and create pressure variances that can damage your AC system. Also, make a visual note of where the vents are and avoid blocking them with storage units, furniture, or drapes.

8. Inspect the Condensate Drain for Blockages

The condensate drain is another important part of your AC system. An air conditioner collects moisture from the air, which is removed via the condensate drain. If this drain gets clogged, mold and algae can grow inside it. Water damage can occur if the drain overflows. Since unclogging the line can be a tricky process, it’s best to hire a professional for AC repair. 

Call TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing for AC Repair Near The Greater San Francisco Bay Area

Properly maintaining your air conditioner can avoid major repairs. Call a professional as soon as you notice any signs of trouble, such as reduced cooling performance, strange noises, weak airflow, foul odors, or higher energy bills. Our licensed technicians can diagnose and fix any problem. They’re also familiar with every type of air conditioner and AC component. If you’re dealing with any cooling issues, schedule an AC repair by calling (415) 223-5096 today.