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Operation of an air conditioning system is a lot like an automobile: efficiency depends greatly on the way it is maintained and operated. Cars give better mileage and last longer when they get proper care and attention and are driven moderately. The same thing is true of air conditioning systems. Clean the filter
Air conditioning systems do more than just cool the air. They lower humidity and remove dust and dirt by moving air through the filters.
When filters become clogged with dirt, the system must work harder to do its job, wasting energy and increasing utility bills. Filters can become clogged in just a month or two of operation. Most residential systems have disposable filters. These should be checked every two months (once a month during peak use) and replaced when necessary. Permanent filters should be cleaned in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Under no circumstances should you operate your system without a filter. To do so could lead to a need for more frequent cleaning of the coils or heat exchangers. Air leaks are costly
Some people like to "help" their air conditioner by opening doors and windows on “not so hot” days. Doing so lets all the cool, dehumidified air rush outside and lets the hot, humid air in. The more your home seals out heat, humidity, and dust, the more efficiently your system will do its job.
The useful "life" of an air conditioner can vary greatly. Such factors as climate, maintenance, care, quality and capacity can increase or decrease the service of a system by months and even years. On the average, a residential central air conditioner will last from 10 to 15 years.
When a unit begins to show its age, it is usually major components such as motors or compressors that wear out.
In the short run, replacement usually costs the least amount of money. But, you may be missing an opportunity to greatly improve the overall efficiency of your system and, thereby, save significant amounts of money in operating costs.
In recent years, manufacturers of air conditioners have made dramatic progress in increasing the efficiency of the units they produce. It may make more economic sense to put the cost of repair onto a new, more efficient unit which will immediately bring down operating costs. A more efficient unit should "pay for itself" through decreased utility bills and add the advantage of greater reliability and warranty protection.
The furnace acts as the blower or fan for both heating and air conditioning and is the electrical control center for your HVAC system. In the summer, the furnace is simply used to circulate air through your evaporator coil, cooling your home or business.