With heat and high humidity common in the Birmingham area, you likely rely on your home’s air conditioner throughout much of the year. On the most miserable days of the year, a well-functioning AC system may be essential for health as well as comfort. Your air conditioner works hard to keep your home cool and comfortable, but its performance will diminish by wear, tear and filth if it is not cared for properly.
The Importance of AC Maintenance
Your home’s air conditioner should be professionally serviced annually, and additional attention that you can do yourself is needed multiples times a year. When the parts in your air conditioner get dirty and wear out, the system must work harder to do its job. This leads to greater energy consumption and higher energy bills. It also can cause extra strain on the system, which leads to the need for otherwise preventable repair services or the need to replace the equipment prematurely.
In addition to these issues, a poorly maintained air conditioner will collect outdoor air pollutants, allergens and dust. Because your AC system moderates humidity, AC maintenance plays an important role in preventing mold growth throughout the house.
When your HVAC technician services the system, concerning and developing issues can be identified. By addressing such issues before they become problematic, inconvenient and costly breakdowns can be avoided. Some issues, such as electrical problems, can result in house fires if they are not addressed quickly, and the technician will inspect the system for these issues during the service.
How to Maintain your Air Conditioner
There are numerous steps that you can and should take to maintain your AC system, and additional steps should be completed by a professional HVAC technician. Your AC filters should be replaced regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Often, this is every 30 to 90 days. When you complete this step, head outside to look at the unit. Remove any debris inside the unit, and create a vegetation-free perimeter two feet around the unit. Then, rinse the fan fins with a water hose to optimize your air conditioner’s performance and efficiency.
When your HVAC technician visits your home, additional important services will be completed. The tech will:
- Check refrigerant levels and replenish them as needed.
- Clean and adjust the blower components.
- Clean the condensate drain.
- Clean the evaporator and condenser coils.
- Check the electrical components.
- Lubricate the equipment.
- Inspect the ducts for leaks.
- Ensure that the thermostat and controls are working properly.
Schedule AC Maintenance Service Today
Staying cool and comfortable indoors requires a well-maintained AC system. If your air conditioner has not been serviced this year, we can help. Schedule AC service at Service Minds One Hour today.