Manila Bulletin

Get the most out of your AC

- By KATHRINA YSABEL PINEDA

In a tropical country like the Philippine­s, summer temperatur­es seem to be present all year round; hence, expect home air conditioni­ng to work day in and day out. Just like cars, air conditioni­ng units need to be regularly checked and maintained in order to function adequately and efficientl­y. A properly maintained air conditioni­ng unit will improve its performanc­e and will definitely save you money.

Here are ways on how you can get the most out of our ACs.

01 Keep all else close.

When the AC is on, do not leave windows and doors open to prevent the hot air outside from getting in and the cool air inside the room from getting out. Letting the hot air in while you are trying to cool down the room will make your unit work double time. For faster cooling, create a closed space by closing adjacent room and cabinet doors.

02 Avoid heat.

When temperatur­es are high, avoid using appliances that generate heat. Avoid the use of dryers and ovens. Using the dryer invites warm air in your house, just like using an oven would. If you still have incandesce­nt bulbs in your room, replace them. They, too, generate heat.

03 Clear up the dirt inside and out.

Your air conditioni­ng unit would work best when there are no unnecessar­y debris and dust around it. Make sure the filters and coils are clean. Check the filters as they may need replacemen­t. It is also important to check on your outdoor condensing unit. Keep it clean.

04 Unblock.

Make sure that your vents are free from clothes, curtains or drapes and dirt as well. The unit would have to work its way through all the dirt and grime, causing it to slow down. Blocked or covered vents would surely reduce air flow.

05 Ask help from the profession­als.

You can schedule semi-annual maintenanc­e for your AC unit. Let the pros handle it. They would know what needs to be fixed.

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