Why Schedule AC Maintenance This Spring?
Air conditioning maintenance is essential for the energy-efficient operation and longevity of an air conditioner. By investing in regular upkeep, homeowners can protect their investment in their air conditioning system and ensure their home has reliable cooling. This guide will discuss air conditioner maintenance, including its benefits, what is done, and when it should be done.
Benefits of Annual AC Maintenance
Regular air conditioning maintenance delivers many significant benefits and can save homeowners money in the long run. AC maintenance leads to better energy efficiency, which results in lower energy bills for homeowners. Professional AC tune-ups also allow technicians to perform tasks that help prevent problems and catch and address small issues before they escalate into major problems, preventing costly breakdowns and discomfort, especially in the hot summer months, and reducing the risk of needing air conditioner repair, saving homeowners money on repair costs.
Routine AC system maintenance also helps to extend the air conditioner’s lifespan. Most last around 10-20 years on average, but neglected AC units often fail prematurely. Regular service visits prevent the excessive wear and tear that shortens its operational life, allowing homeowners to go longer without needing to pay for air conditioner replacement.
What Does AC Maintenance Entail?
Professional air conditioning maintenance involves a comprehensive inspection of the system and a series of checks and cleanings to benefit the air conditioner. During a standard AC maintenance visit, a technician performs multiple critical tasks to ensure the unit operates efficiently and to avoid issues, including cleaning the evaporator and condenser coils, tightening electrical connections, lubricating moving parts, and more.
During their inspection of the system’s components, they will check the thermostat settings, refrigerant levels, and more to ensure they are correct. If there is low refrigerant due to a refrigerant leak, issues with the thermostat, or other problems, they can be quickly addressed. Inspecting their air conditioning system allows issues to be identified and fixed before they become more severe and expensive problems.
How Often Should Air Conditioning Maintenance Be Done?
HVAC professionals generally recommend scheduling professional AC maintenance at least once per year, ideally in spring before temperatures rise. This timing ensures the air conditioning system is energy efficient and ready to perform at its best when the household needs it most. Spring maintenance also allows technicians to identify and address potential issues before they develop into costly repairs or breakdowns, leaving the home uncomfortable in the summer.
Homeowners should also change air filters more often between annual AC service appointments. Air filter replacement should typically be done at least every three months. However, a good rule of thumb is to check AC filters monthly and replace them when they are visibly dirty, as several factors can necessitate more frequent changes, such as the type of filter, whether the household has pets, and more. Regular filter changes also provide many benefits, including better energy efficiency, lower energy bills, improved indoor air quality, and a longer lifespan for the air conditioner.
About RupCoe Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning
RupCoe Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated company serving the South Plainfield community since 1985. They provide upfront pricing, attention to detail, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them for air conditioner maintenance services in South Plainfield, NJ.