It’s easy to take your air conditioner for granted. It operates quietly in the background, delivering consistent comfort. Only when your home feels stuffier than usual do you even begin to consider the AC. However, you can’t expect your cooling equipment to function reliably without routine maintenance.
Here, we answer our customers’ most frequently asked questions about AC maintenance.
How Often Should My AC Get a Tune-Up?
Your air conditioner should get a comprehensive maintenance inspection and tune-up once a year, whether it’s a ductless mini-split, heat pump or conventional central air system. An annual preventive maintenance check-up ensures each component of your AC system is in good working order.
When is the Best Time to Schedule an AC Tune-Up?
We recommend scheduling your AC tune in the spring or early summer. That way you can be confident that your cooling system is primed for the hot season ahead. And because your AC equipment has been dormant over winter, spring is a good time for the technician clean the outside condenser/compressor of debris and rodent nests (Seriously!) and wash the condensing coils.
Can I Do an AC Tune-Up Myself?
While it’s understandable that you’d want to save a few bucks by going the DIY route, an AC tune-up is one job you should leave to the professionals. Air conditioners are complicated, comprising multiple interconnected moving parts. Damaging one part will compromise the entire system. Plus, many manufacturers stipulate that repairs should only be conducted by licensed professionals, lest you void the warranty. That means you’ll be on the hook for the full price of any HVAC repairs or replacement parts needed.
That said, there are some things you can do yourself in between maintenance visits.
- Replace the air filter every 30 to 90 days. This is will prevent dust and debris on the filter from restricting airflow.
- Clean the condensate drain. The condensate drainpipe channels all the moisture your AC produces to the outdoors. When it becomes clogged with mold and dirt, water will overflow. Prevent this by running a pipe brush down the drain and pouring a cup of bleach down the line to kill mold, mildew and algae.
- Keep the condenser/compressor free of vegetation: Vegetation can crowd the outdoor unit, preventing airflow. Make sure there’s always at least three feet of clearance between the appliance and any surrounding bushes and plants.
What Does the Technician Do During an AC Maintenance Visit?
Our licensed, certified HVAC technicians work from a comprehensive list to assess your cooling equipment and make all necessary repairs and adjustments. This includes:
- Lubricating bearings/belts
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Gauging airflow
- Replacing the air filter
- Cleaning the outdoor unit
- Cleaning the evaporator coils
- Calibrating the thermostat
- Checking safety features
- Ensuring the outdoor unit is level
Will My AC Work Without Preventative Maintenance?
Your AC will work without preventative maintenance, but you’re taking a big risk. One of key benefit of a preseason tune-up is that it gives your confidence that your cooling system will run reliably all summer long. Skipping a maintenance inspection increases the likelihood of a midsummer breakdown. You’re also taking years off of your air conditioner’s life and forgoing maintenance could void its current or extended warranty.
Will the Technician Try to Upsell Me?
Our technicians only make the adjustments and repairs necessary to help ensure your AC operates at peak efficiency. We’ll never try to sell you anything you don’t need. Most of our business comes from referrals and we have a strong track record of customer satisfaction. In fact, we’re so confident in our maintenance services, we’ll cover the cost of any diagnostic and safety inspection fees in the event your AC needs to be repaired.
To schedule your maintenance visit or learn more about our comprehensive AC services, call our team today at (770) 268-2422.