How can Kentuckians maximize their A/C unit during the summer months?

LANCASTER, Ky. (FOX 56) – As temperatures continue to climb, more and more people are cranking up their A/C units.

Kentuckians have likely had the urge to crank up their air conditioning to the fullest to beat the heat.

However, that could be the wrong mindset to have.

Karen Hughes with ADA Heating & Air said there are some things to do before turning on the A/C unit for the first time for the summer.

Doing a maintenance check will ensure the unit is actually ready to run.

It’s also advised to make sure the area around the unit is clean, which will prevent potential hiccups during the summer from things getting caught in the unit.

“Check the freon levels; you’re going to want to make sure you stay cool,” Hughes explained. “Make sure there’s no leaks and that’ll keep you running smoother. Also, one of the best things to do is to change your filter. Make sure your filter is not dirty. I’ve seen that happen; that can cause more damage than just about anything.”

Hughes also said that in order to maximize the health of the A/C unit, don’t put it on the coldest setting possible.

Although it may seem tempting, the ideal range is about 70 to 72 degrees. The last thing anyone wants is for their A/C to break, especially during the summer.

Hughes said there are some simple ways to save money when it comes to your system.

Chief among them is checking all electrical outlets, making sure everything is plugged in correctly without having to call a specialist.

Consumers will also want to make sure all the compressors are running and the evaporator coil is clean.

But with summer often times comes strong to severe weather; what should be done in that instance?

“Flip the breaker,” Hughes said. “If the unit has stopped working, just flip the breaker and see if that’s the issue. A lot of times, that is, and it’s an easy fix. An easy, free fix.”

Hughes also said HVAC and A/C units need to be constantly maintained and that a good habit to get into to prevent overworking the system is to have someone check it every time you get your oil changed, or at least twice a year.