Air conditioning in Van Nuys is more than a convenience—it’s a necessity. But maintaining a high-performing AC unit takes more than replacing a filter every few months. Homeowners looking to optimize system performance, reduce long-term costs, and avoid sudden breakdowns need to go deeper.
Below are six deep, actionable tips that HVAC professionals recommend for smarter AC usage and maintenance.
1. Balance Airflow With Proper Duct Inspection
While many focus on the AC unit itself, the ductwork is often overlooked. Leaks, blockages, or unsealed joints in your ducts can reduce system efficiency by up to 30%, leading to uneven cooling and wasted energy.
Deep Tip: Request a duct inspection every 2–3 years to detect airflow restrictions or leaks. Sealing and insulating ducts can significantly improve cooling efficiency and indoor air quality.
2. Calibrate Your Thermostat for Accurate Readings
Most homeowners trust their thermostat without realizing it could be off by several degrees. Thermostat sensors may shift or lose accuracy over time, causing your AC to cycle unnecessarily or run too long.
Deep Tip: During professional service, ask the technician to recalibrate the thermostat and verify its placement—away from direct sunlight, vents, or appliances that could distort readings.
3. Schedule Seasonal Refrigerant Pressure Checks
Refrigerant doesn’t “run out” unless there’s a leak. Low pressure can silently affect system performance and eventually damage the compressor.
Deep Tip: Have refrigerant levels and pressure tested annually during spring. Catching a slow leak early prevents long-term wear and system strain.
4. Clean and Protect the Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil plays a key role in removing heat and humidity from your home. Even a thin layer of dust reduces heat transfer, forcing the system to work harder.
Deep Tip: Have the evaporator coil cleaned professionally every year. Install a UV light system in your air handler to inhibit microbial growth on the coil surface, improving both performance and air quality.
5. Use Advanced Fan Settings Strategically
Running the fan continuously may seem like a way to circulate air better, but it can also raise indoor humidity—especially in humid climates like Van Nuys during monsoon conditions.
Deep Tip: Set the fan to “Auto” instead of “On.” This allows the fan to run only when the compressor is operating, maintaining proper dehumidification.
6. Choose Experienced, Local HVAC Professionals
No deep-level care is effective without experienced professionals to support it. Local HVAC technicians understand regional factors like dust levels, outdoor temperature swings, and energy code requirements.
For reliable service, many Van Nuys homeowners turn to Premier Cooling and Heating for AC repair in Van Nuys. Their licensed technicians provide in-depth diagnostics, preventive maintenance, and long-term solutions tailored to your system and space.
Final Thoughts
Basic AC care helps—but deep AC care transforms your system’s performance. When you go beyond the surface, you extend your equipment’s lifespan, improve indoor comfort, and reduce operating costs.
By following these deeper-level tips and partnering with local experts, you’ll ensure your AC runs smarter—not harder—all year long.