How Often Should An AC Unit Be Serviced?

You’ve got to regularly service your air conditioner to ensure that it’s running properly. If your AC unit isn’t properly maintained, it could lead to a number of problems, including decreased efficiency, higher energy bills, and even complete breakdowns.

The frequency of air conditioner servicing depends on a few factors, such as the type of air conditioner, the age of the unit, the climate, and how often it is used. For most units, it is recommended to have them serviced twice a year.

If you do end up with an issue, there are two ways to deal with it: professional AC repair or replacement. Replacing the unit is usually more expensive but may be a necessity if the unit breaks down completely. On the other hand, repairing your AC unit is cheaper and more convenient. A good rule of thumb is to service your AC in mid-Spring and mid-Fall or immediately if you notice your AC not working properly.

Why should I service my AC Unit regularly?

By scheduling regular servicing of your AC unit, you can:

Avoid costly repairs

Certain problems like leaks and electrical issues don’t show up right away. If a problem is discovered in the heat of the summer months, you’ll have to work with limited air conditioning and pay higher energy bills. Preventative maintenance saves money on repairs because the technician may be able to detect small issues before they become big problems.

Enjoy priority service

There are many advantages to having a regular maintenance service on your air conditioner. Scheduling regular maintenance will help reduce the chance that you will have to end up paying for repairs that have already been done, and it will provide you with an extra layer of protection against an AC unit failure. However, repairing your AC unit is cheap and convenient.

Have a unit that runs more efficiently

AC units require routine tune-ups for optimal energy efficiency. Servicing your unit at least once a year will last longer and use fewer resources.

Ensure your unit that performs up to code

Air conditioning units must be maintained according to local, national, and even international standards for the unit to be in compliance with the type of work it does. A well-maintained AC unit will last longer than one that is damaged and not maintained properly.

What Does AC Maintenance Include?

Maintaining your AC system is crucial because it enables you to increase its lifespan and ensures that it keeps removing heat and humidity from your home.

A regular maintenance plan includes:

A thorough inspection of the AC unit

The first step in AC service is a thorough inspection of the unit. The technician will examine the exterior and interior of the unit in an effort to identify potential issues or problems. This should be done at least once a year, but more often if you notice that the unit is not running at peak performance or there are odd sounds coming from it.

The technician will clean the AC unit inside and out, removing odors, gunk, and other contaminants. The technician will also examine the unit’s air flow, using an airflow meter to ensure that the air is moving properly throughout the home. At this point, if necessary, the technician will add refrigerant to your unit.

Clean condenser coils

This is the most important of all AC services and has the biggest impact on AC unit efficiency. Condenser coils trap and remove heat from your home. Over time, dust and dirt build-up on the coils and reduce their effectiveness. This leads to higher energy bills and improper cooling in your home. As a result, there are significant energy savings due to improved airflow and cooling efficiency.

Replace the air filter

A clogged air filter makes your unit work harder to cool your home. Over time, this can wear out your unit. A dirty filter also lets dust and dirt into the system, causing a mess that must be cleaned up by hand. To prolong the life of your unit, use a high-quality air filter and ensure regular maintenance.

Test electrical functions

A qualified AC service technician will perform an electrical test on your unit to make sure the wiring is in good working order. This test can ensure that your compressor, fan, and other electrical components are operating correctly. If the wiring has a problem, it will be discovered soon after installation. Early detection can save you a lot of time and money because repair parts are more affordable than if you discovered the issue in the final stages.

Lubricate any moving parts

Ask your AC technician to examine the fan motor, blower wheel and shaft, compressor crankcase, and other moving parts to see whether they require lubrication.

Check the thermostat

To save energy and lower utility costs, ensure your thermostat is set to a comfortable level and not too high. During the hottest part of the day, set the thermostat to at least 78 degrees and at least 76 degrees at night. Additionally, you may set your thermostat to automatically turn off when not in use to conserve energy without losing comfort.

Inspect it for leaks

A leak in your AC unit can cause cooling problems and lower efficiency, resulting in higher energy bills. An experienced technician can check for leaks to ensure everything is functioning properly. Leaks are common in regions that experience high humidity or unusually high temperatures. Because of this, routine maintenance is a must to ensure your AC unit lasts as long as it should.

Final Thoughts

If it’s been a while since you last had your air conditioning unit serviced, it’s important to have a pro take a look. Without an experience pair of eyes, you’ll be more likely to risk an inefficient air conditioner that won’t keep your home cool enough. The right amount of service is necessary for all homeowners who want the best type of AC in their homes. You can save money by installing a preventative air conditioning maintenance service on your air conditioner. Instead of periodically making emergency repairs, ensure that a technician comes out once a year to clean and check your unit and make sure it runs efficiently.

Additionally, having an AC service contract keeps you protected in case anything goes wrong with the unit. You will be able to get it repaired as soon as possible. An AC service contract ensures you receive the most out of your air conditioning unit, which is especially important during summer. If you want to keep your family comfortable at home in the coming seasons, call a qualified AC service technician for professional services.

Still have questions? Ask an HVAC expert directly via chat or phone.

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