Have you ever had to deal with a broken AC in the middle of a heatwave? If you have, you know it’s not fun. Not to mention, it can be incredibly expensive to fix. The good news is that most major AC problems can be prevented with regular maintenance. In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of regular AC maintenance, key maintenance tasks, the role of a professional, and tips for choosing the right maintenance service. So, let’s dive in and learn how to prevent costly AC repairs with regular maintenance!
Regular AC maintenance is essential for a few reasons. First, it helps ensure your AC unit is running efficiently, which can save you money on energy bills. Second, it can extend the life of your AC unit, saving you money on replacement costs. Third, it can help prevent major problems that can lead to costly repairs.
Besides preventing costly AC repair bills, potential risks of neglecting maintenance include higher energy bills, reduced cooling efficiency, and even total system failure. Also, dirt and debris can build up in your AC unit, causing it to work harder than necessary and potentially leading to overheating and other problems. Finally, regular maintenance can help catch small issues before they become big, expensive problems.
Key AC Maintenance Tasks You Can’t Ignore
Now that we understand the importance of regular AC maintenance let’s look at some key maintenance tasks.
- Cleaning or replacing the air filter: Dirty air filters can restrict airflow and cause your AC unit to work harder than necessary. This can lead to increased energy bills and potential damage to your AC unit. Make sure to clean or replace your air filter every 1-3 months, depending on use and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Cleaning the AC coils: The coils in your AC unit can collect dirt over time, which can reduce the unit’s ability to absorb heat. Make sure to clean the coils once a year.
- Checking the refrigerant level: The refrigerant is the liquid that your AC unit uses to cool the air. If there is too much or too little refrigerant, your AC unit may not cool properly. A professional can check the refrigerant level and recharge it if necessary.
- Inspecting the thermostat: The thermostat controls the temperature in your home by regulating the amount of cool air your AC unit produces. Make sure your thermostat is working properly and set at the right temperature.
- Checking the condensate drain: The condensate drain allows the moisture that is removed from the air to be expelled from your AC unit. Over time, the drain can become clogged, leading to increased humidity levels and potential water damage. Make sure to regularly check the condensate drain for clogs.
- Inspecting the ductwork: Leaks or holes in the ductwork can lead to a loss of cool air and increased energy bills. Make sure to regularly inspect your ductwork for any signs of damage.
- Checking the system controls: Make sure that the system’s start cycle, operation, and shut-off sequence happen in the correct order. Check the controls of the system to ensure everything is operating as it should.
The Pros Know Best
While some maintenance tasks can be done yourself, it’s essential to have a professional conduct a thorough inspection and maintenance of your AC unit at least once a year. A professional can check for potential problems that you may not be aware of and make any necessary repairs or adjustments. They have the expertise and tools necessary to ensure your AC unit is running at its best. Also, many manufacturers require regular professional maintenance to keep the warranty valid.
It’s important to compare the costs associated with regular maintenance and those of major AC repairs. Regular maintenance typically costs between $100-$150 per year, depending on your location and the service provider. On the other hand, major AC repairs can cost anywhere from $150 to $2000, depending on the nature of the problem. Clearly, investing in regular maintenance can save you a lot of money in the long run. Not to mention, it can help ensure your AC unit is running efficiently and keeping your home comfortable.
Tips for Choosing the Right AC Maintenance Service
Choosing the right AC maintenance service is crucial. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Check for certifications and licenses: Make sure the service provider is certified and licensed to operate in your area.
- Ask for references: A reputable service provider should be able to provide references from satisfied customers.
- Get multiple quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Get quotes from multiple service providers to ensure you are getting the best deal.
- Ask about the services included: Make sure you understand what services are included in the maintenance package.
- Check for insurance: Make sure the service provider has insurance to cover any potential damages that may occur during the maintenance.
Regular AC maintenance is essential to prevent costly repairs and keep your AC unit running efficiently. Key maintenance tasks include cleaning or replacing the air filter, cleaning the AC coils, checking the refrigerant level, inspecting the thermostat, checking the condensate drain, inspecting the ductwork, and checking the system controls. While some maintenance tasks can be done yourself, it’s essential to have a professional conduct a thorough inspection and maintenance of your AC unit at least once a year. Finally, when choosing an AC maintenance service, make sure to check for certifications and licenses, ask for references, get multiple quotes, ask about the services included, and check for insurance.
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Founded in November 2020, Climate Restoration specializes in residential HVAC services, backed by a decade of industry experience. The company’s expertise ranges from simple residential settings to complex industrial chillers.