Are you tired of paying hefty energy bills? You’re not alone! Surprisingly, the average American spends around $1800 on energy consumption bills every year. Roughly half of that sum accounts for heating and cooling. In most cases, homeowners usually make mistakes when repairing and maintaining their AC systems. This can lead to wasting money on incorrect repairs, or worse, can even shorten the life of your AC system. To help you avoid this, we’ll be discussing some best practices and tips about regular Air Conditioner Maintenance that can save you from costly emergency repairs in the future.
Why Routine Air Conditioner Maintenance Matters
Routine Air Conditioner Maintenance optimizes its overall performance in general. As global temperatures rise, your dependence on air conditioning increases as well. These are a couple of reasons why it’s important to perform air conditioner maintenance regularly. Here are a few more reasons why AC maintenance should be on your mind:
Better Performance
Standard maintenance and repair services can help you get the best performance out of your air conditioning system. It has been shown to lower energy costs as well. Experts clean different components like fans, coils, and filters to clear out dirt and debris that causes the air conditioner to lose its efficiency.
Increased Lifespan
Regular repairs and maintenance also address minor issues that would otherwise lead to major system failures. Neglecting Air Conditioner Maintenance can result in major breakdowns and premature failure. Hiring a reliable service contractor can help keep your AC unit in good condition for longer, saving you from more costly repairs or expensive upgrades.
Improved Air Quality
Pretty obvious, isn’t it? Clogged filters can continue circulating dirty air full of allergens, dust, and other pollutants. This can lead to an increase in severe respiratory issues, allergies, or just plain discomfort. After all, the air conditioning system is a major contributing factor to air quality. Professional repair services can perform routine air conditioner maintenance for you. The experts will make sure that you have clean filters and that your unit is well-maintained. This will also enhance healthy indoor air quality.
It’ll Save You in the Long Run
Minor problems turn into major ones if not corrected in time. Routine maintenance can highlight and correct problems early to save you from costly repairs, or even whole system replacement.
Top Signs Your Air Conditioners Need Maintenance
Whether you are looking to have your air conditioner maintained by professionals or plan to do it yourself, look out for these red flags that may be a clue there is something wrong with your AC system. Catch them quick enough, and these warning signs could save you from costly repairs:
AC is Making Strange Noises
Unusual grinding or squeaking sounds may be related to your air conditioner’s motor or fan issues.
Electricity Bills Increasing
You can determine if your AC requires maintenance by checking for sudden spikes in your energy bills without any significant change in usage. This could be a sign that your AC is working harder to cool your home. If you experience this, it is always a good idea to seek the advice of an Air Conditioner Maintenance technician. They can even offer some Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips that come in handy, and you can schedule further service with them if it is needed.
Getting Stinky Odors
If there is a bad smell coming from your air conditioner, that’s a sign that mold or bacteria could be growing inside the unit. This needs to be sanitized immediately before the problem spreads further into the AC system. Issues like this can be a threat to the health of your family if they are left undiagnosed. Yet another reason why Routine Air Conditioner Maintenance is so important.
Poor Airflow Inside the Air Conditioner
This is one of the more obvious signs that your air conditioner requires maintenance. If you find less air coming from your vents, then the unit is probably clogged somewhere. Perhaps those air ducts got choked up, or the blower motor malfunctioned. Restricted airflow can lead to improper cooling and high energy usage, which means more expenses and less comfort for you and your family!
AC Leaking or Getting Moisture Around It
It is bad to have water near the unit. This is a sign to call your air condition maintenance technician right away to avoid more costly repairs.
What Most Homeowners Do To Maintain their AC Systems
Proper AC Maintenance requires the homeowner to ensure that their units are working correctly. Here are some simple steps that you may use to keep your AC running:
- Begin by clearing away debris or obstructions from within or around your air conditioning unit. Cut back the shrubs or other plants near the AC.
- Check your air filters. These filters should be changed every 1-3 months. If there is any dirt build-up on your filter, it’s probably time for a change.
- You can also adjust the thermostat at energy-saving temperatures for a better result. You will get your AC unit to optimize cooling and save energy easily.
How Often To Maintain An Air Conditioner?
Many HVAC technicians would recommend servicing your AC at least once a year. If you are considering scheduling an appointment for AC maintenance, we would advise doing that during the spring season. This way, you will catch up on any problems before summer kicks off and ensure that your system doesn’t shut down during the summer heat!
Some Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips By Experts
- Inspection of Unit Insulation: Many experts suggest inspecting the insulation surrounding the AC conditioner copper piping. The pipe carries refrigerant from the evaporator to the condenser units and can condensate if not properly insulated.
- Change Air Filters: A clogged air filter makes for an inefficient air conditioner. Therefore, replacing the air filters on your AC unit improves the quality of air while saving you money. It is recommended to change the air filters in your home every 1-3 months to maintain a healthy and comfortable home.
- Check The Wirings: If your AC system is not working, it could be due to the wiring. Check the wires going into other equipment parts. If you see any loose or disconnected wires, call your HVAC service tech or an emergency electrician immediately. These wires pose a shock risk, and a professional should be called in to fix this right away.
Final Words
Small things always lead to big things. That little clicking noise now ends up being the loud banging later. Likewise, Routine Air Conditioner Maintenance now ends up being savings and peace of mind later. Keep an eye on the AC System in your home. If something seems wrong, give us a call! If you’re interested in having your AC or HVAC serviced, contact our experts at Service 360 today!