Get The Best Out Of Your AC With Proper Maintenance
TL;DR: Regular maintenance is vital for your AC’s longevity and efficiency. Neglect leads to breakdowns and reduced performance. DIY tasks like cleaning coils and checking drain lines are essential, while professionals handle inspections and repairs to prevent costly issues. Clarke and Rush offer expert AC maintenance in Sacramento, California.
According to the US Department of Energy, an air conditioning system that is well maintained typically lasts 15 to 20 years. However, reaching this impressive milestone requires attention and care through proper maintenance. Ignoring the needs of your AC causes frequent breakdowns and chips away at the system’s efficiency.
You want your AC to be in the best shape for as long as possible because replacing it is expensive. Regular upkeep can keep your AC unit operating without issue.
The goal of this article is to show you how proper maintenance keeps your AC running smoothly. By staying on top of a few simple tasks, you can avoid unexpected repairs and ensure your system serves you well for years to come.
The Benefits of Regular Maintenance
By scheduling regular check-ups, you ensure that your AC unit operates at its best and doesn’t experience any sudden malfunctions. When your AC doesn’t have to operate through dust build-up, low refrigerant levels, or faulty thermostat settings, it uses less power, which is a win for your wallet. Some other ways you and your AC can benefit from regular maintenance include:
- Improved performance and efficiency: A well-maintained AC doesn’t have to work as hard to condition the air in your home, which means it uses less energy and, in turn, lowers your energy bills. That is a win-win situation because you save money and help reduce some of the 1,950 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions produced by AC every year.
- Longer duration of your AC unit: With proper care, an AC system can last longer, saving you an expensive replacement. The ASHI estimates that installing a new AC can cost between $5000 and $12,000, with the price varying between AC models and sizes.
- Better indoor air quality: By replacing air filters and cleaning the coils, you can prevent dust, dirt, and other pollutants from making their way into your indoor air. You and your family can breathe better air and not spend extra money on additional air-quality gadgets like air purifiers.
How to Deal with Common AC Issues
If you don’t regularly inspect your AC and promptly address issues, you’re setting yourself up for future headaches. Your AC needs a certain level of attention to keep it running smoothly. Some of the most common issues you might encounter if you neglect your air conditioning system include:
- Frozen coils: This issue usually stems from poor airflow, which can be due to dirty air filters or blocked ducts. Ensure you clean or replace the air filters every few months, and keep vents and ducts clear of obstructions. Regular cleaning can help prevent debris from blocking the airflow, which in turn helps avoid pesky frozen coils.
- Leaking refrigerant: If your AC isn’t cooling as well as it should, or you notice puddles around the unit, it’s probably leaking. Monitoring your AC’s performance and scheduling regular check-ups can help catch leaks early.
- Failing compressor: If the compressor breaks down, you’ll have to pay significant repair or replacement costs. Regular maintenance is your best defense against compressor failure. It includes cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and lubricating the AC system.
Maintenance Tips for Your AC
Regular AC maintenance involves several steps, each crucial for preventing performance issues and extending the life of your system. You can do them yourself or entrust them to a certified AC professional. Either way, you have to take care of these things if you want the AC system to keep working.
Straighten The Condenser Fins on The Outdoor Unit
These fins can get bent over time, which impedes airflow and reduces your AC’s efficiency. Straightening them is delicate, but it will make it easier for the AC to disperse the extra hot air. Check the fins at least once yearly, preferably before the cooling season starts, to see if they’re in good shape.
Clean the Drain Line
This line allows condensation from the cooling process to exit your AC system, preventing water from leaking into your home or the unit. A clogged drain line can lead to mold, water damage, and reduced efficiency, so you should check it regularly for blockages.
Clean the Coils
AC systems have evaporator and condenser coils responsible for the heat exchange process that keeps the air cold. Dust and debris can collect on the coils and insulate them, reducing efficiency. Cleaning them is very straightforward and includes the following steps:
- Turn off the power to the unit.
- Gently rinse the condenser coil with a garden hose.
- Use a soft brush and coil cleaner to take care of the evaporator coil.
Check The Refrigerant Levels
If your system develops a leak and the refrigerant levels drop, your AC won’t cool as effectively, which can cause the compressor to overheat and fail. If you notice your system is less efficient or making strange noises, you might be dealing with a refrigerant leak. Handling refrigerant requires special equipment and training, so it is best left to a professional.
Insulate The Refrigerant Lines
The refrigerant lines allow the compound to travel between the indoor and outdoor units, but their insulation can degrade over time. This results in energy loss and reduced cooling power. Having a professional check the insulation and replace it if necessary can help maintain your system’s efficiency.
Inspect the Electrical Connections
Connections can become loose over time, and corrosion can set in, leading to malfunctions or even posing a fire risk. Such problems are best left to professional AC technicians, as working with electrical components can be dangerous without the proper knowledge and tools.
Professional Maintenance: What to Expect
When you hire professionals for your AC maintenance, you’re signing up for a thorough check of your system. Technicians perform annual inspections that cover every nook and cranny of your unit. During the inspection, the professionals will do the following things:
- Examine the electrical connections to ensure everything is tight and functioning correctly.
- Check the refrigerant levels to make sure your system is running efficiently.
- Inspect the ductwork for any air leaks.
Beyond just looking things over, these pros will get their hands dirty with cleaning and repairs. You can expect them to clean the condensate drain and replace air filters. On the repair side, anything from worn belts to faulty wiring that they uncover during the inspection will get fixed up. These actions prevent breakdowns during peak heating and cooling season and significantly extend the lifespan of your AC unit.
Keep Your AC in Good Working Order In Sacramento, California
Regular AC maintenance checks can prevent unexpected breakdowns, saving money and hassle. But if you’re unsure where to start or think you have a problem with the unit, contact Clarke and Rush in Sacramento, California.
Our company has 60 years of experience in the HVAC business, and our 95 service professionals can handle any AC system. Even before you call us, you can chat with our service agents, who are available 24 hours a day. Tell them your AC trouble, and they’ll advise you on your next step.
If you want to see how proper maintenance keeps your AC running smoothly, call us today!
FAQ
Why is regular AC maintenance important?
Regular maintenance ensures your AC system operates efficiently, reducing the risk of breakdowns and extending its lifespan. Clarke and Rush recommend scheduled maintenance to keep your system in top condition.
What are the benefits of professional AC maintenance?
Professional maintenance involves thorough inspections and repairs, preventing potential issues before they escalate. Clarke and Rush technicians are equipped to handle all aspects of AC maintenance, ensuring optimal performance and peace of mind.
How often should I schedule AC maintenance?
Clarke and Rush suggest scheduling maintenance at least once a year to keep your AC system running smoothly. However, factors like usage and climate may influence the frequency of maintenance appointments.
What DIY maintenance can I do for my AC system?
While professional maintenance is essential, homeowners can perform basic tasks like cleaning condenser fins and checking air filters. Clarke and Rush can provide guidance on DIY maintenance practices to complement professional services.
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