With rising temperatures, the need for a good air conditioning (AC) system comes to the fore. However, staying cool is more than just some comfort; it is a necessity during the hot months. But, stable and dependable cooling does not only mean to switch the AC on all the time, it requires some maintenance.
Keeping your air conditioning unit in top shape does not only prevent discomfort but also saves money. A system that is energy efficient consumes less power resulting in lower energy bills. In addition, regular servicing prolongs your AC’s life, putting off costly replacements.
The little investment in maintenance is repaid by your unit operating effectively in the hour of need. Let us look at the importance of regular maintenance of an AC unit and the process or activities that are involved in the maintenance.
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The Importance of Regular AC Servicing
Frequent maintenance of your AC system ensures that it works at the highest possible efficiency. Efficient air conditioners consume less electricity in cooling your home hence low electric bills. Besides, regular inspections can help to detect problems at a very early stage so that they will not result in a costly repair or even require a complete system change. Spending little on maintenance now, saves you more later.
In addition, properly serviced AC systems or units have a higher life. Like a well-oiled machine, an AC system that is maintained and serviced will work better and last longer. This implies that you can postpone the cost of having to purchase a new system.
What Does AC Maintenance Include?
Maintenance includes several activities that help the AC operate at its peak conditions. To begin with, maintenance of the air filters is a must. Blocked or contaminated filters result in airflow restriction, decreased efficiency, and might even lead to system freezing. Professional installers and even AC manufacturers suggest that filters are replaced every one to three months depending on the usage.
The system’s refrigerant levels will also be inspected by the maintenance technician. Should your air conditioner lack refrigerant, it can lose effectiveness in the process of cooling and it may also mean there is a leak. Not only do leaks fixing improve efficiency but also they prevent environmental damage.
Checking the coils of the AC unit is also one of the important components of maintenance. When the coils are dirty, they force the unit to work harder and this adds to the wear and tear, as well as increases energy use.
Ensuring Professional AC Maintenance
Even though some simple maintenance tasks such as filter changes can be done by you, it is a good idea to have a professional technician inspect and service your AC system at least once a year. This generally involves checking the thermostat settings, lubrication of moving parts, looking for blockages in the condensate drain and ensuring all electrical connections are right.
An expert can detect problems that are not visible to the layman. They may also carry out several other complicated activities including checking the capacitor, testing the system’s controls to ascertain that it operates as required, cleaning the outdoor unit and removing obstacles like foliage, etc.
The Best Time for AC Maintenance
Preferably, time your air conditioning system maintenance in spring—before the height of summer heat. This preparation guarantees that when you need your unit to operate, it is ready to give you good, constant cooling—throughout the entire season. Not only does AC maintenance keep the unit running well, but it also helps to avoid the problem of the system malfunctioning at the hottest time of the year.
Conclusion
AC maintenance is not only a home keeping task, it is an investment in your home’s comfort and efficiency. Through keeping your air conditioner in top shape, you achieve not only a cooler and healthier home but also a happier, fatter bank account.
