As the average homeowner, it’s easy to lose sight of some of the most critical appliances maintaining our comfort within our homes. One such component is our trusted air conditioner, silently keeping us cool through the sweltering heat of the summer. However, to keep this vital system running smoothly, the role of a professional heating and cooling contractor cannot be underestimated.
This article will detail why and how a contractor’s yearly inspection and maintenance can save you money, prolong your unit’s lifespan, and ensure your home stays cool when it counts most.
Reasons You Should Service Your AC at Least Once per Year
You may have asked yourself, “How often do I need to service my air conditioner?” It’s time! Make sure to have your AC checked by a professional HVAC technician before summer arrives and you melt in the heat. Doing it yourself could void your warranty and result in a large repair bill. Keep your AC cool all summer by getting it serviced annually.
Is It Really Necessary to Service Your AC Every Year?
You do. Regularly servicing your air conditioner has many benefits, but you will save money. You may notice a problem once it is much larger and costlier.
When you service your AC system regularly, repairs are smaller and cheaper. An AC tune-up typically costs between $75 and $200. Prices will vary based on location, unit type, and the problem. Maintenance for window units can cost between $30 and 500, whereas higher AC unit maintenance costs between $350 to 750. The annual inspection will take a little of your time. This inspection takes about one to two hours, so you won’t need to clear your entire day (unless there is a serious problem).
Unserviced ACs lose 5% of their efficiency yearly and use more energy. This will increase your energy bills. The lack of regular maintenance puts the system under more stress, which can reduce its lifespan by up to 50%. A new air conditioner can cost up to $7500.
When Should You Service Your AC?
It would help if you aimed to service your AC every year between early and mid-spring. For optimal performance, you should also service your unit in the fall. An HVAC contractor will work on your furnace to prepare it to handle heating needs once temperatures drop.
Why Not Avoid Summer and Winter Tune-Ups?
AC repairs are in high demand during the summer. Waiting until the hot weather hits could leave you sweating in your home while you wait on an HVAC technician to repair any problems they discover. If they need to order new parts, your AC could be out of commission for several days. Before summer arrives, hire a local AC pro.
It is not a good idea to schedule service in the winter because the cold weather may damage the unit. The oil inside your unit can thicken when exposed to colder temperatures. This lack of oil circulation may cause it to malfunction.
Open the windows to let the fresh air cool you off if you are experiencing a hot spell in the winter. You can also plug a fan near the window to increase its effect.
What Is Covered by an Annual AC Service?
The technician will do the same tasks every time to ensure your system works properly.
The AC service tasks include:
- Replace your air filters.
- Cleaning and inspecting the coils indoors and outdoors
- Condensate Pump Inspection
- Check that the thermostat is working properly
- Condensate Pump Cleaning
- Visually inspect your entire HVAC system.
- Remove any dirt and dust from the system.
Should You Get an HVAC Service Plan?
An annual HVAC service contract can help you save money while keeping your HVAC system in top condition. A service plan can be a good option if you are outside your warranty period.
Make sure to read the fine print. You’ll want to know if the contract covers repairs, emergency calls, and yearly or bi-annual HVAC services. Check whether only labor or parts are covered if repair is included in your plan.
HVAC service plans typically include the following tasks:
- Seasonal inspections and tune-ups are recommended.
- Filter replacement
- Thermostat repair
- Airway cleaning
- Insulation Inspection and Advice
- Checks for lubricants and refrigerants
- Air quality and safety inspections
4 Ways to Service Your AC Yourself
You can still optimize the efficiency of your AC and ensure it is working optimally, even if you regularly book annual AC service.
Here are some DIY ideas for AC service and maintenance:
1. Cleaning Evaporator Coils and Condenser Coils
Over time, the evaporator coil of your air conditioner will accumulate dirt and debris. This accumulation reduces the airflow, slowing down the machine. For best results, follow these tips and the guide on how to clean AC coils.
- Clean coils on the outdoor unit with compressed air.
- Clean the coils by sweeping them with a soft-bristled brush.
- Use foam cleaners or oil sprays that self-rinse to remove heavy buildup on coils.
2. Air Filter Replacement or Cleaning
Many people leave the job of changing their air conditioner filter to their HVAC technician. However, it is recommended that you change your air conditioning filters at least once every 90 days. If you have allergies, asthma, or children in your family, it is important to change the air conditioning filter at least every 90 days. If so, choose a MERV 13 filter to remove tiny allergens such as pet dander and pollen. It also eliminates bacteria, viruses, mold spores, and other contaminants. Change it at least once every 60 days.
Your air conditioner’s air filters can clog up very rapidly. This reduces the efficiency of your unit and makes it difficult to cool your house.
3. Cleaning the Vents
It is important to clean the vents at least every 90 days. Cleaning is a simple process. Unscrew the vents, remove them, and clean them with a soft rag to remove any accumulation that may reduce their efficiency.
Vacuum as much dust out of the ducts. This will help maintain AC efficiency and reduce the amount of allergens and dust particles circulating through your home.
4. Winterize Your Air Conditioner
Winterizing your AC will reduce the risk of rust and weather damage. It can also prevent wildlife from nesting or eating mechanical parts.
You should include these tasks in your regular air conditioner maintenance.
- Remove all debris around the condenser, including leaves, twigs, and weeds. This should be done periodically throughout the winter.
- The outdoor unit should be rinsed with a garden hose to remove dirt, insects, and droppings. Allow the unit to completely dry.
- If it is unseasonably hot, cut the power to the unit so it does not turn on. This could cause water to accumulate inside the unit and freeze.
- Protect the air conditioner with a cover that fits snugly, and insulate pipes with foam tubes to prevent them from freezing.
- Remove any snow and ice from the top of your unit as winter approaches to avoid damage caused by the weight of the accumulation.
Conclusion
The importance of yearly AC servicing cannot be overstated. It not only enhances the performance of your cooling system but also prolongs its lifespan and helps you save money on unnecessary repair costs. By opting for a professional HVAC service in Glendale, you ensure your air conditioner stays in top condition and reduces the chance of unexpected malfunctions, particularly during a heatwave.
Practicing preventative maintenance like inspections, filter replacements, and occasional DIY maintenance can effectively increase the efficiency of your AC and ensure a comfortable and cool environment in your home. However, professional insight from a heating and cooling contractor remains more valuable than one might assume when it comes to deep servicing.
This is where we at Pro HVAC Contractor of Glendale step in. We ensure that your air conditioner stays up and running efficiently, keeping your home cool and your summer days comfortable. Investing in our service ensures a seamless, hassle-free cooling experience. So, why wait? Contact us today and book your annual AC servicing to guarantee a cool and comfortable summer for you and your family.
