Now that it’s starting to get warmer out, it’s time to start thinking about your air conditioning system. Whether your AC is older or newer, every system requires regular AC service. Regular AC service is not just a preventive measure; but it’s a proactive way to make sure you get the most out of your AC system.
In my time since leaving the military, I have been working on HVAC systems. In that time, I’ve serviced hundreds of AC systems, and gotten to know about the importance of regular AC service. I’ve seen systems die years prematurely because the owner didn’t stay on top of annual AC service. I’ve also seen some systems that have lasted for 20 years because they were well maintained.
In this article, I’ll go over why you should schedule AC service every year, and some things you can do on your own to make sure your HVAC system is running properly. If you live in Hoffman Estates, IL or the surrounding areas, and need AC service, give us a call at (630) 504-8688, or contact us online to get your service scheduled!
The most obvious reason to have your air conditioner serviced is to ensure it cools properly. Our technicians will clean evaporator coils, change filters, and check for any parts that require repair or replacement. They will also check the thermostat to make sure it’s sending the right signals to your air conditioner.
This maintenance ensures that air flows properly through the system, and it’s getting to the right temperature. We make sure that every space in the home is cool and ready for the summer heat!
If you have a system that has dirty components, and things are operating so smoothly, the chances are your system isn’t running as efficiently as it should be. During service visits, technicians optimize your system’s performance, which can significantly reduce your energy bills.
A well-maintained AC unit requires less energy to cool your home, but if you go a few seasons with no service, the air conditioner may start running less efficiently. This is going to drive up your energy bills unnecessarily, and also impact the cooling in your home, making it less comfortable.
Just like any major appliance, an AC system benefits from regular check-ups. This is especially true for air conditioners, which are designed to last for more than 10 years. Regular AC service can get ahead of breakdowns and repairs being needed, and also extends the lifespan of your unit. As I’ve mentioned before, I’ve seen some AC systems that aren’t serviced die years prematurely, and some systems that were well maintained last for around 20 years.
Instead of looking at regular maintenance as an added expense, you should look at it as something that saves you money. When you maintain your air conditioning unit, you are going to prolong it’s lifespan, and make sure you are getting the most years possible out of your AC!
Routine air conditioning maintenance includes cleaning or replacing the air filter and cleaning the air conditioner’s coils and other parts. This not only improves the system’s efficiency but also enhances the air quality inside your home.
Your air filter is designed to catch any airborne irritants, like dirt, dust, allergens, and other debris that float in the air. If you leave your filter unchanged for months, it gets clogged up and prevents the air from flowing properly. All the air that ends up getting through is also dirty, and less healthy to breathe.
The ideal time for AC servicing is during the spring, right before the summer heat is here for good. Scheduling service in the spring ensures your system is ready to handle the summer heat without any hiccups. Also, technicians are generally less busy during this time, making it easier to schedule a service on your time.
We recommend having your AC system serviced at least once a year. This is usually enough to make sure you can get through the season with no major issues. If you have an older AC, you may want to have it looked at once at the beginning of the season and another towards the end. But, as long as you have one professional service a year, you should be good to go for the summer!
While professional servicing is a must, there are steps homeowners can take to maintain their AC systems on their own.
One of the simplest yet most effective maintenance tasks is changing the air filter. This is performed during a professional service, but you should really change your air filter once every few months.
We recommend buying a few filters at a time, and storing them away. That way you can check your filter every month or so, and determine if you need to change it. Then instead of having to run to the store for a new filter, you can simply pull a fresh one out of storage and make the change!
Take a little time to clean around the outdoor AC condenser. Sometimes plants can grow around it, or leaves and sticks can make their way into the system. This can cause damage and blockage of airflow. Clear the inside and outside of your condenser, and hose it off to get dirt off of the fan and coils.
For residents of Hoffman Estates, IL, Compass Heating and Air is your AC service expert. We have been servicing, installing, and repairing AC systems for years. If you are looking for the best AC service around you, give us a call at (630) 504-8688, or contact us online to schedule your annual air conditioner maintenance!