5 Ways to Improve Air Conditioner Airflow in your Bay Area Home

Improper airflow is the cause of many of the most common air conditioner problems in Bay Area homes. Luckily, there are some things homeowners can do to avoid these problems and ensure that their air conditioners breathe properly. So let’s take a look at why good airflow is so important to your cooling system and what you can do to achieve it!

Why is proper air conditioner airflow important?

If your cooling system does not have good airflow, it will be difficult to keep your home comfortable. Some common airflow problems include certain rooms having better airflow than others or your entire home suffering from low airflow. In either case, your home will likely have uneven temperatures and it will be difficult to keep it cool.

Airflow can also have a direct impact on the health of your air conditioner. When air is restricted to your cooling system, it can overwork your unit and lead to higher energy bills and expensive repairs.

How can you ensure your air conditioner has good airflow?

• 1. Change your filter. One of the best ways to ensure your air conditioner has proper airflow is tochange your filter regularly. When your filter gets dirty, your air handler has to work harder to push air through it. A clean filter will make it much easier for your air handler to do its job.
• 2. Use the right type of filter. Your air conditioner is only designed to handle filters up to a specific efficiency rating. If you have a filter with a MERV rating that’s higher than your cooling system is built to handle, you’ll have airflow problems in your home. Check your owner’s manual or consult Cabrillo if you have any questions about the types of filters that will work well with your air conditioner.
• 3. Fix any ductwork problems. If you have leaks in your ductwork, air can escape as it travels around your home and your air conditioner will have to work harder to make up for it. In addition, some homes have duct systems that were improperly designed, which can cause all sorts of airflow problems. Cabrillo’s duct sealing and modification services will help fix any of these problems.
• 4. Remove obstructions around your outdoor compressor. The outdoor compressor on the side of your home needs room to breathe. If plants or shrubbery grow around your compressor, or if debris gets stuck on the unit, it will restrict airflow to your air conditioner. Be sure to keep the area around your compressor clear to avoid these airflow problems.
• 5. Get an annual tune-up. During a tune-up, we’ll analyze the performance of your air conditioner and let you know if we find any airflow issues. This is a great way to stay informed about the condition of your cooling system and will allow you to fix airflow problems before they cost you big money down the road.

If you have any questions about your air conditioner’s airflow, or if you’d like a cooling system serviced or installed in your home, contact Cabrillo, your Bay Area plumbing, air conditioning and heating company.