Air conditioning systems require regular AC preventive maintenance in order to ensure optimum performance. This involves checking the system regularly to identify potential problems early enough to avoid costly breakdowns. If you want to keep your air conditioner running smoothly throughout the summer months, AC preventive maintenance is necessary.
Non-authorized technicians may lack the necessary knowledge and experience to detect minor issues that further turn into major ones. However, selecting an authorized service partner is one way to ensure that repairs will be carried out by qualified technicians in a timely manner. They follow specific procedures and use quality parts to ensure a high standard of work.
Properly maintaining your air conditioning unit will help extend its life span. AC preventive maintenance also reduces energy consumption, thereby saving money.
Do You Really Need to Get Your AC Serviced Every Year?
If you live in a hot climate, chances are you know how important it is to maintain your HVAC system. But do you really need to get it checked out every year? If you’re like most people, the answer is probably yes. Here’s why.
HVAC servicing and preventive maintenance are one of those things that seems simple enough, but there’s actually quite a lot involved. For starters, you’ll want to make sure to set HVAC preventive maintenance schedule for regular inspections with an HVAC professional. This includes checking filters, coils, vents, ductwork, and even the refrigerant level in the unit itself.
While some systems won’t require much work beyond changing the filter once per month, others might require more frequent changes. In addition, some units come with built-in sensors that automatically detect problems and alert HVAC maintenance technicians when something goes wrong. These types of systems are called “smart,” and they usually cost more than standard models.
Of course, no matter what type of system you’ve got, you’ll still want to check the thermostat settings periodically. In addition to routine checks, you’ll also want to pay attention to the following signs of air conditioning repair.
8 Signs Showing Your Air Conditioner Needs Repair
A lot of people don’t know what to look out for when it comes to their HVAC system. They think that if something isn’t broken, then nothing needs fixing. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. If you’re noticing some strange behaviours, here are eight signs that your air conditioner may need repair.
1. Air Conditioning System is Blowing Warm Air
Your home air conditioning system should provide adequate cooling throughout the whole house. If it doesn’t, there are several reasons why this might happen. A few of those include:
– The thermostat setting is too high.
– There is a problem with the blower motor.
– The condenser coil could be damaged.
It needs repair if your AC is blowing warm air into your living space. You don’t want to wait until something worse happens. Call an HVAC field service contractor now.
2. AC Thermostat Not Functioning
When it comes to keeping cool during the summer months, most homeowners are familiar with the basics. You turn up the temperature, set the timer, and wait for the house to feel like a sauna. But what happens if there’s something wrong with your air conditioning unit? If your thermostat isn’t working properly, you might find yourself sweating buckets even though the outside temperature is relatively mild. A malfunctioning thermostat can prevent your air conditioner from turning off or running correctly.
3. Air Blows Out of Vents
This is a common issue with home heating and cooling systems. When you turn on the system, it may sound like there are no problems. But if you look closely, you’ll notice something strange. There are vents blowing out hot air. Or cold air. Or both. What gives?
This is caused by a malfunctioning thermostat. You’ve probably noticed that the temperature display reads “off.” If that happens, it could mean one thing: Your thermostat is broken.
The most likely culprit here is a faulty sensor. A faulty sensor won’t let the furnace control itself properly. So when you flip the switch, the fan turns on, and the blower starts moving air around, but nothing else happens.
If you’re seeing this symptom, call an HVAC field service technician immediately.
4. Loud Noise in the AC Unit
Loud noises, while the air conditioner is operating, could indicate a problem with a component inside the system. A loud noise during operation might mean a malfunctioning part of the system. If you hear a loud noise, call an HVAC technician immediately.
5. Strange Odors When AC Turned On
The most common cause of strange odours when you turn on your central air conditioning unit is a clogged filter. This causes moisture to build up inside the air handler, which leads to mould growth. Mould spores are everywhere, and they thrive in moist environments. If you see a musty smell coming from your vents, it might be worth having your HVAC technician take a look.
Another possible source of foul smells is a dirty condenser coil. This is usually caused by dust buildup or grease accumulation. You can clean the fan motor and coils yourself, but make sure to wear protective gear like goggles and gloves.
If you notice a burnt smell coming out of your vents, there could be a problem with your electrical wiring. Check the breaker box and ground wires for damage.
A third possibility is a short circuit in your home’s electrical panel. If you suspect this, call your electrician immediately.
6. Not Enough Humidity Removed By the AC
Air conditioning systems are great tools for keeping our homes cool during hot summer days. But they can cause some serious issues if we don’t use them properly. If you’re having trouble getting rid of the excess moisture inside your home, there might be something wrong with your system. Contact an HVAC field service business immediately.
7. Water Leaks Around Air Conditioning Unit
Any moisture leaking in or around your air conditioning unit could indicate leaks in the system. If you notice water dripping onto the ground, it might mean that there is moisture leaking into the compressor compartment. This could lead to corrosion inside the compressor. You should contact a licensed HVAC technician as soon as possible.
If you see ice forming on the copper refrigerant tubing outside the condenser, it could mean a blockage somewhere in the system. A blocked drainpipe could cause freezing temperatures inside the condensing coil. In addition, the frozen pipe could crack and allow water to seep out. You should call an HVAC field service professional immediately if you spot any signs of frost on the coils.
8. Rising Electric Bill
Electricity prices continue to rise. If you’ve been paying attention to your energy bill lately, it might be because your air conditioning system isn’t working properly. You could be spending too much energy cooling down your home while you sleep.
If you think your AC unit is malfunctioning, don’t wait until summer hits. Call an HVAC contractor today to schedule an appointment for regular air conditioner maintenance.
Top Reasons For AC Preventive Maintenance
AC preventive regular maintenance ensures your air conditioning system runs smoothly. If you don’t regularly clean your air conditioner, it could stop working completely. Here are some reasons why you should consider having your air conditioner serviced every six months.
1. Preventing damage
A dirty filter clogs up the system, causing dust and debris to build up inside the unit. This buildup causes the compressor to work harder, resulting in wear and tear on the parts. Eventually, the motor can overheat and burn out.
2. Improving efficiency & Reducing Electricity Bill
If your air conditioner isn’t cleaned regularly, dirt and debris collect on the coils and fins, reducing airflow and cooling capacity. Over time, this reduces the efficiency of the system, increasing energy consumption. A well-maintained air conditioner can save you money on your electric bill.
3. Preventing breakdowns
When the filters become too full, the flow of cold air becomes restricted. When this happens, the temperature rises quickly, which can cause the compressor to shut off. In addition, there’s no way to regulate the temperature without the proper equipment.
4. Prevent Bacteria & Viruses
Regular AC maintenance service prevents the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses. The air ducts and vents are prime breeding grounds for these pathogens. Cleaning the vents and filters helps prevent the spread of disease.
5. Maintaining safety standards
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recommends that all air conditioning units undergo annual inspections. These tests ensure that the system meets minimum safety requirements. They also help identify potential problems before they occur.
6. Service Your AC to Extend Its Lifespan
Air conditioning systems are expensive investments, especially during the summer months. But you don’t want to spend thousands on repairs because you didn’t take care of your system properly. In fact, it’s important to maintain air conditioning units throughout the year to keep them running efficiently.
Should You Get HVAC Service Plans?
HVAC service plans help you save money on repair costs and keep your system running smoothly. If you don’t maintain your heating and cooling systems properly, it could cost you big bucks down the road. And while there are many different types of plans out there, most offer similar benefits.
HVAC Service Plans vs. HVAC Maintenance Agreements
The key difference between a service agreement and an HVAC maintenance agreement is the frequency of visits. With a service contract, an HVAC field service technician comes to your home once every six months or one year to perform routine inspections and check your equipment. They’ll make sure everything is working correctly and replace filters if necessary. In contrast, an HVAC maintenance agreement requires monthly visits, usually during off hours, to clean vents and coils, change air filters, and test temperatures. This ensures your system runs efficiently and prevents problems like mould growth and carbon monoxide buildup.
HVAC Annual Maintenance Contract typically covers three things:
When you contact your air conditioner service provider for annual maintenance, they will offer three services.
• Preventive care – The HVAC engineer will inspect your ductwork, furnace, and air conditioning unit to ensure it’s operating safely and effectively.
• Repairs – The air conditioning service technician will fix anything that needs fixing, including replacing worn parts such as belts and hoses.
• Preventative care – The engineer will continue to monitor your equipment throughout the year and make sure it’s performing optimally.
CONCLUSION
AC preventive maintenance ensures that your air conditioning system operates efficiently, saving you money on your utility bills. It also helps prevent costly breakdowns and keeps your family safe by preventing the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses.
Hence contact an HVAC field service company to regularly schedule preventive maintenance of HVAC system and increase the lifetime of your AC.
Frequently Asked Questions on AC Preventive Maintenance
Why is Annual HVAC Maintenance important?
A properly maintained air conditioner will provide you with reliable cooling for years to come. Regular maintenance checks help prevent breakdowns before they happen, saving money on repairs down the line.
Can I reduce my energy bills with regular AC servicing?
Yes, you can save money on air conditioning service costs by regularly checking for leaks or damaged seals, changing filters, cleaning coils, and adjusting thermostat settings.
How Often Should You Service an Air Conditioner?
You should service your air conditioner every six months or a year. However, if you live in a hot climate, you may need to service it more often. If you notice any problems with your AC unit, such as mould growth on the evaporator coil, make sure to call a professional immediately.