Air Conditioner Considerations by Region
3 pros!
Take into account these air conditioner maintenance tips if you live in an area with extreme weather.
Air conditioner manufacturers design systems that meet consumer demand for higher-efficiency cooling and to ensure indoor air quality — just to name a few factors they consider.
But if you live in a region that is considerably hotter, dustier or more humid than the general population across the U.S., you need to be aware of seasonal air conditioning considerations, which will help you better maintain your AC unit or pick the best air conditioner when you're ready to upgrade.
Increased humidity and dust make your AC run harder
When monsoon season looms, homeowners in Arizona and the surrounding area buckle down. While homeowners welcome the relief from extreme temperatures, it also means they're subject to a few air conditioner problems that increased humidity and dust storms create.
To combat dust, keep plenty of air filters on hand and check the filter regularly. As it works overtime to capture dirt and dust, you may need to change it more often — perhaps as much as every few weeks to keep indoor air clean.
It's also handy to already have a high-efficiency air conditioner installed in your home. It's ultra-efficient components, like a two-stage compressor and variable-speed air handler, means the system can run longer cycles to better manage humidity within the home and better filter out dirt as air circulates through the system.
Dirt and wind restrict air conditioner airflow
Stronger seasonal winds often means extra dust in already-dry regions like Texas. As Mother Nature kicks up more dirt, the outdoor condensing unit of your air conditioner takes a beating.
If the cooling system isn't properly maintained, dirt that reaches the internal components can wreak havoc on the AC unit's operating efficiency and cooling capacity. Strong winds can also cause debris, branches and other materials to block the airflow that's necessary around the outdoor unit.
To combat dust, proper HVAC maintenance is critical. You'll need to keep an eye on the air filter, replacing it as necessary. Occasionally check the area around the AC condenser, removing any blockages. Schedule seasonal maintenance to keep the system clean and operating at its peak.
Protect AC coils from coastal corrosion
Homeowners who live near the ocean face corrosion issues from salt that's blown inland. Studies show that unprotected coils experience a significant drop in efficiency. In fact, operating costs are often as much as 50 percent higher over a span of just two years.
On the flip side, when the condenser coil is coated with a special protectant, AC systems perform to manufacturer specs over their lifetime.
If you live in a coastal area, talk to your HVAC contractor about coating the coil with an anti-corrosive coating. When upgrading the air conditioning, ask about applying the coating to the new system from the get-go so it lasts longer and runs more efficiently.
If you're dealing with special climate concerns, there's good news. Air conditioner manufacturers have responded to these unique regional problems with solutions like improved filters, protective coatings, and high-efficiency components that are able to effectively manage higher humidity levels and beyond.
The next time you talk to your HVAC contractor, inquire about these regional solutions so you can protect your investment in a newly installed central air system or better maintain the one you already have.
Have you encountered weather-related issues with your AC or taken precautions to protect it? Tell us about it in the comments section below.