AC Maintenance is the best way to extend the life of your air conditioning system. Minor issues that are left unchecked can grow into major problems that require expensive repairs or even a replacement system. Having a professional technician inspect your unit can catch these small problems before they become bigger issues. It will also help you keep your cooling bills low by allowing the system to operate at peak efficiency.
If you have a newer unit, it’s recommended to get an AC Maintenance appointment before the summer season starts. This will ensure the system is ready to keep you cool all through the hot weather. It’s also a good idea to schedule a checkup before you host any large gatherings, as more people can put more strain on the system.
A professional technician will inspect the air conditioner to make sure all electrical components are working properly and that the thermostat is correctly calibrated. They will clean the evaporator coils and condenser coils to remove any debris that may have built up over time. This is especially important for outdoor units, where the coils are exposed to the elements and can become covered with dirt. The technicians will also clean the drain line, which carries excess condensation away from the unit and into a drain pan beneath your home’s foundation. This can become clogged with bacteria, which is a common problem for older ACs, and can cause water leaks or mold growth.
The technicians will also replace the air filter, which will help to ensure that the AC unit is circulating clean air throughout your home. If you have ducts, they will take the opportunity to examine them for any gaps or leaks that could allow dust or mold to circulate throughout your home, as well as pests and insects that may have made their homes in the vents.
Other services offered by the professional technician include cleaning the air conditioner condenser fins, which are often covered with dirt and can become bent easily, blocking air as it passes through them. The technician can straighten these fins with a pair of pliers to get them back into the proper position and ensure that air is flowing freely through the coil.
The technicians may also use a chemical solvent to remove any mildew and mold that has formed on the inside of your AC unit. The chemicals used in this process are safe for the environment and won’t harm your unit or the surrounding vegetation.
In addition to these services, the technician will test the voltage of your system and check for any loose or cracked connections. They will also lubricate the moving parts of the unit to make sure they are operating smoothly and efficiently. Finally, the technician will check the electrical wiring and connections to make sure they are in good condition and there are no signs of corrosion.
It’s possible to do some AC maintenance yourself, but you should only try this if you have a good understanding of how your HVAC system works and know what to look for. If you’d like to save yourself the hassle of doing all this work and have a professionally-trained technician handle your maintenance, we recommend that you sign up for our Gold Service Club. This will give you two precision system tuneups per year, as well as 15% off all repair costs and priority scheduling for AC emergencies.