As an HVAC expert, I have seen firsthand the consequences of neglecting regular maintenance and tune-ups for air conditioning units. Many homeowners are unaware of the difference between seasonal air conditioning set-up and preventive maintenance, which can lead to costly breakdowns and repairs. In this article, I will explain the importance of both tune-ups and maintenance for your AC unit, and how they can save you money in the long run. Firstly, it is important to note that seasonal air conditioning set-up should always be done by a professional. This involves inspecting both the inside and outside of the unit for any potential problems that could cause a breakdown in the coming months.
It is recommended to schedule these adjustments in early spring and early fall, just before the cooling season begins. This will ensure that your AC unit is working at its best when you need it most. On the other hand, routine refrigeration maintenance should be performed once a year. This is typically done just before the cooling season begins, to avoid any potential breakdowns during the hottest months of the year. By tuning up your air conditioner, you can save money by avoiding costly repairs that often arise from neglecting regular maintenance.
Additionally, a well-maintained AC unit will also save you money on energy bills in the long run. The duration of a refrigeration adjustment will depend on the amount of maintenance being performed and the overall condition of your HVAC system. If you have an older AC unit, a maintenance visit will reveal its age and general condition. It is important to address any issues that arise during this visit to ensure that your AC unit continues to run smoothly. Neglecting these tasks can lead to more frequent breakdowns and higher utility bills. During an air conditioning set-up, an HVAC specialist will ensure that all components of the unit are working properly.
This includes checking the heating system, as both the heating and air conditioning share the same condensation line. By setting up the heating before winter, you can avoid any potential issues that may arise during the colder months. Additionally, a tune-up can help extend the life of your AC unit by detecting and addressing small problems before they become major issues. As part of the set-up process, an HVAC professional will clean and adjust all thermostat wires, replace the filter, and clean the air conditioner condenser and condenser coil. They will also tighten any cables and connections, and test the performance of the fan motor, contactor, compressor, and condenser.
Once the set-up is complete, you will receive a report on the status of your AC unit.In addition to scheduling annual tune-ups with a professional, there are some tasks that homeowners can do to extend the life of their AC unit. This includes ensuring that lint from the dryer cannot enter the unit and restrict airflow by checking where the dryer is ventilated. It is also important to regularly clean or replace air filters to maintain proper airflow.
