If you want to maximize the performance and lifespan of your air conditioning system, you're probably wondering about AC maintenance.
What does AC maintenance include? How can you be sure you're taking great care of your HVAC equipment?
Those are the questions this article will answer! When you're done reading, you'll know:
- What the most important AC maintenance tasks are
- What homeowners can do to maintain their air conditioners
- Which AC maintenance tasks are best suited to professionals
Let's get started! First, we'll consider why it's essential to give your air conditioning system some regular TLC.
Why AC maintenance is so important
Many people never think about their air conditioners until something goes wrong.
And by then, the problem might be so severe that they have to spend lots of money to fix it. Or worse, they might have to replace the air conditioner.
You don't want any of that! You want your AC to perform reliably throughout the warmer months.
That's why it's so essential to perform routine preventative maintenance on your air conditioning system. Just as you wouldn't drive your car for 25,000 miles without changing the oil, you should never use your air conditioner for multiple seasons without giving it a basic tune-up.
In the end, a well maintained air conditioner will last years longer than one that was never serviced.
Plus, it'll work a whole lot better during the years you own it! Regular maintenance = better AC performance.
Primary AC maintenance tasks
Now let's look at what's involved in basic air conditioning system maintenance. At least once per year-preferably before the start of the cooling season-it's important to complete all of the following tasks:
- Test the startup components, such as start and run capacitors
- Check the refrigerant for the proper charge and inspect for leaks. If needed, inspect for refrigerant leaks with an electronic leak detector.
- Clean the outdoor coil using manufacturer-approved cleaning chemicals
- Inspect the drain line for blockages and mold growth
- Check all belts and electrical connections for signs of wear
- Inspect the blower motor and verify that the fan is set to move 350 to 400 CFM per ton
- Replace or clean the air filter to ensure proper airflow throughout the home
What to look for in an AC maintenance plan
As you probably surmised, many of those tasks are best suited to professionals with specialized training and equipment. What should you be looking for in a contractor?
For starters, the contractor needs to offer an AC maintenance plan. Most do.
From there, look for the following benefits:
- Annual tune-ups for cooling and heating systems
- Priority scheduling where you move to the front of the line
- Discounts on repairs and parts
- No diagnostic fees
- Replacement credits toward your next HVAC system
- A repair warranty of at least 5 years
- "No-breakdown" guarantee where the contractor will return for free if the system fails after the maintenance visit.
At PV Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we offer all of these benefits to PV Priority Plan members. Plus, members enjoy total peace of mind about their air conditioning and heating systems. If you live in Metro Atlanta and need AC maintenance, sign up now!
How homeowners can help maintain their air conditioners
Is there anything you can do to maintain your AC between preventative service visits? Absolutely!
Homeowners have a big role to play in keeping their air conditioners in good working order. Here are some things you can do throughout the cooling season to maintain your AC:
- Change or clean your air filter according to the manufacturer's instructions. A really dirty air filter can overwork your air conditioning system. Most replaceable air filters should be changed out every 90 days. If you have a washable air filter, be sure to wash it according to the specified maintenance schedule.
- Keep your supply vents open. It's ok to close one or two every once and awhile, but for the most part, they should stay open to maintain optimal airflow.
- Clean your condensate pump if you've got one. Just unplug the pump, pour in some hot soapy water, and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then pour out the water and reconnect the pump. If you're concerned about bacterial growth in the drain line, you can pour a water/bleach solution into the pump after cleaning it. You should only have to do this once per year.
- Ensure the outdoor unit is free from weeds, straw, and other debris. This helps the system do its job! Keep the area around the outdoor unit clean. You don't want pine straw or leaves to pile up around the coil.
Conclusion: Staying on top of AC maintenance improves indoor comfort and saves money
By keeping your air conditioner in the best possible condition, you avoid inconvenient breakdowns and maximize the system's lifespan!
Plus, you'll be a lot more comfortable with a system that consistently achieves peak operating performance.
To learn more about AC maintenance or to sign up for the PV Priority Plan for HVAC service, get in touch today! We serve all of Metro Atlanta!
Just call us at (404) 798-9672 or schedule your maintenance visit online!
