Keep cool with AC maintenance

How to...

ew things beat summer heat better than walking into a comfortably chilled air conditioned home. Air conditioning is often taken for granted, but sorely missed when it is not working. The key to keeping cool all summer long is to ensure that air conditioning systems are functioning properly. Maintaining an AC unit can save money and protect homeowners’ investments. Without regular attention, an AC unit will lose its efficiency, needlessly wasting both energy and money as a result. Poor maintenance also can lead to system failure just when it is needed most. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average lifespan of an air conditioning unit is about 15 to 20 years. Home Advisor says homeowners can pay between $500 and $4,000 for central air conditioning, with the final cost depending on the unit, additional installation items, such as ductwork, and installation charges. With regular maintenance, homeowners can keep their units humming properly and avoid premature replacement costs.

So what can homeowners expect as it pertains to air conditioner maintenance? The following are some oft-needed checks and fixes. • Keep it clean. Vacuum the fins and coils of the AC unit on the external compressor/condenser fan with a soft-bristled brush, advise an expert HVAC professional. This may require unscrewing the metal box surrounding the unit to access the fins. Remove any accumulated debris that may be impeding air flow. Afterward, go inside and change the filter that is installed with the evaporator that’s located in a central duct near the furnace. Inspect the filter periodically to see if it is soiled and needs replacement. Timing can vary depending various factors, such as the time of year, the accumulation of dust and whether or not pets live in the home. • Straighten coil fins. The fins on the condenser are easily bent and that can affect the flow of air through the coils. If you cannot easily straighten them, then consult with an HVAC professional to do so. • Check the thermostat. Ensure that the thermostat is still working properly. You also may want to upgrade an old thermostat to a programmable or smart thermostat that enables you to remotely set and adjust the temperature. • Consider an in-line duct booster. HVAC professionals can guide you through the advantages of an in-line duct booster for forced-air cooling. This can increase the flow of cool air into a room that always seems hotter than the rest. Another option is a vent or register booster fan that sits on top or replaces a traditional floor or wall register. • Deal with condensation. Condensation from air conditioning coils can puddle around the furnace if the condensate drain tube is clogged. Clearing it out will help prevent puddling and the formation of bacteria-laden water in the system.

Periodic maintenance is necessary to ensure uninterrupted service on a home AC unit.

Metro Creative Graphic Keep cool with AC maintenance F

Keep cool with AC maintenance..............................................3 Few things beat the summer heat. Air Conditioning Specialist, Inc. can help keep your air conditioner maintained. Protect your property..............................................................6 Cold weather can take its toll on a property. Most parts of the landscapes are vulnerable to damage, but trees are especially susceptible. Above All Tree Service can help. Choose a primary care doctor................................................5 Finding a main doctor who you feel comfortable talking to is the first step in good communication and getting good health care. Learn more about Piedmont Physicians. Make pre-need arrangements................................................8 More adults are finding that funeral pre-planning offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home can make an already difficult time easier for all. Pick the best bank...................................................................10 Banking and financial services are changing at a rapid pace, and consumers have high expecations. Learn more about how to determine which bank is right for you with United Bank. Choose home flooring...............................................................12 Kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects tend to make great investments. Hardy’s Floor Coverings can help you choose the best flooring for you and your home. Find chiropratic care..............................................................14 Chiropractic services are used most often to treat common musculoskeletal complaints. The Joint Chiropractic family is here to help. Select an agent to sell your home........................................16 Selling a home can be stressful. Pinnacle Realtors is here to make the process easier.

Know when to seek hospice care..........................................18 Requesting hospice care is a personal decision. Whether you choose to stay at their in-patient facility or have them to your home, Abbey Hospice will restore control and dignity to what time remains. Have good home hygiene........................................................20 “Cleaning” and “good hygiene” are not the same. TMC Cleaning Services is ready to return balance to your household. Know your options as pet owners........................................22 Many pet owners don’t realize they have choices. Talk with Wheeler Petuary about pre-need planning today.

Get the most from your local newspaper...........................24 How to navigate The Covington News.

Choose a qualified provider for dermatologic procedures.........26 Dermatologist treat more than 3,000 conditions that affect the skin, hair and nails. Dermatology Consultants deliver excellent care for the entire family.

Consumer 2020 Consumer Guide

Finding the products and services you need, right here in Newton County.

Abbey Hospice...............................19 Above All Tree Service....................7 Air Conditioning Specialist, Inc......2 Dermatology Consultants.............27 Hardy’s Floor Covering.................13 J.C. Harwell and Son..................... 9 Piedmont Physicans......................28 Pinnacle Realtors..........................17 The Covington News.....................25 The Joint Chiropractic...................15 TMC Cleaning Services................21 United Bank..................................11 Wheeler Petuary............................23 Index of Advertisers

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