Air conditioning is the best thing you can do for your home. But it is expensive to run and costly to repair. Regular maintenance maximizes your units’ efficiency while minimizing your energy costs. For example, cleaning the AC’s air filters minimizes energy loss by 5%-15%.
Don’t let high energy bills make you change your habits throughout the year; keep your system running at top condition with regular service work from a trusted ac repair contractor in Gainesville, FL. If you discover problems early, you can prevent heat loss and save money on costly repairs. Read to learn the importance of AC maintenance, signs your AC needs replacing, and when is the best time to service an air conditioner.
What’s the Importance of AC Maintenance?
Air conditioning maintenance keeps your home comfortable and energy efficient. Here is the importance of AC maintenance:
- AC maintenance keeps your system running efficiently. Ignoring air conditioning maintenance can lead to increased energy costs, poor cooling, and inefficient operation. It can result in increased wear on your system components and premature failure of these parts.
- AC maintenance keeps your family healthy. Air conditioners circulate air throughout the home using a filter to capture particles such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. Suppose you don’t clean the filter regularly. In that case, the particles build up on its surface, making it less effective at filtering out these contaminants from the air. It may result in allergies or other respiratory problems for some household members.
- It improves the efficiency of your AC. If you have an old AC model that does not work efficiently, you can still repair and use it effectively.
- It keeps your appliance working longer. A well-maintained AC lasts 15-20 years, while an improperly maintained one might only last ten years or less before needing replacement. It means less money spent on replacing appliances early on and more money saved over time by investing in regular maintenance.
- Prevents the growth of Microbes, air conditioners that are not properly maintained can create an environment where microbes thrive. These microbes may cause allergies, infections, and other health problems. By scheduling regular AC maintenance, you can ensure that the environment inside your home or office is safe for all inhabitants.
When Is the Best Time to Service an Air Conditioner?
The best time to service your air conditioner is during spring. It helps keep your unit running efficiently and effectively, so you can continue enjoying cool temperatures throughout the summer.
If you wait too long between services, the efficiency of your unit will decrease, which can result in higher energy bills and more frequent breakdowns.
What’s the DIY Process of Servicing an Air Conditioner?
You should know how to service an air conditioner to save money and energy.
- Clean air filter: First, turn off the AC to prevent damage—clean air filters at least once a month and more often if you have allergies or pets. To clean the filter, vacuum it with a brush attachment.
- Clean vents and the outside unit: Ensure that vents coming out of the house are clear of debris and dirt so that good airflow can occur inside and out. Cleaning these vents will also prevent them from getting blocked by leaves or snow during winter. After cleaning these parts, wipe them down with a cloth dipped in warm water and soap. Let everything dry before putting it back together.
- Assess its performance: Look at how well the AC works by testing its airflow. To do this, turn off the power and determine the AC’s performance. When you turn the AC on, there will be a smell; It’s clearing any dust that has settled since you turned off the AC.
Signs Your AC Needs Replacing
If you notice the following signs, it’s time to replace your AC:
- The house is much hotter than usual.
- You hear a loud noise when the AC kicks on or off.
- You notice a musty odor in the house.
- Increase in the electric bill.
- If your AC is more than ten years old.
When Do You Buy an AC?
Any other season but not summer because the prices will have skyrocketed. The best time to purchase a central air conditioner is during the off-season. It is when manufacturers and dealers try to clear their inventory and make room for new units. It can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
What’s the Cost of Servicing an Air Conditioner?
The cost varies depending on what needs to be done, but it’s generally not too expensive. HVAC servicing can cost anywhere between $140 and $220. It includes basic cleaning of the unit, checking its seals and compressors for damage, and ensuring all the parts are working correctly. If the technician finds something wrong with your unit, repair costs $300-$700.
It’s best to get your AC serviced at least 1-2 a year. Regular servicing is essential for all air conditioner owners because it will get more life out of your current system. Also, use a specialist that knows the ins and outs of your brand and model.
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