Let’s accept it. It’s hard to live comfortably in the summer season without AC units. You get much-needed comfort indoors, even if it’s sweltering outside. But if you want to consistently experience this comfort, it’s important that you perform regular maintenance on your unit so it keeps working exceptionally well.
But what’s included in the AC maintenance? And when does it become crucial to call a contractor? In today’s article, we’ll answer these questions in detail. Let’s get started.
Cleaning and Replacing Air Filters
It’s the most common AC maintenance task. The filters are checked first. If they are clogged, the airflow will be restricted. It forces the entire unit to work harder and consume more energy.
Air filters make a big difference in indoor air quality. During the inspection, a technician will inspect these filters for potential faults. They can clean or replace them (if needed) so the air passes through the filter smoothly.
To get optimal results, the air filters should be cleaned or replaced every 1-3 months. It also comes down to what kind of environment you live in and how often pets or allergens are present in that space.
Inspecting and Cleaning Coils
Your unit’s evaporator and condenser coils are primarily responsible for heat transfer. But over time, these coils accumulate debris, which reduces their efficiency. Technicians thoroughly inspect and clean these coils using sophisticated methods, including specialized brushes and cleaning solutions.
Several studies indicate that dirty coils can make a compressor use up to 30% more energy. This clearly means that you’d save a lot on bills if you maintain them regularly.
Similarly, overworked AC parts break down more quickly, which can lead to costly repairs. Regular maintenance will stop the coils from freezing and extend the lifespan of different components of the unit.
Checking the Blower Component of AC
Motor and fan blades are fundamental parts of your AC’s blower. Technicians also inspect them to prevent iced coils. Without good airflow, the indoor coil could get too cold, causing the AC to blow warm air.
And as we’ve mentioned above, the dirty or clogged blower will also need to work harder to push air (ultimately wasting electricity).
Understand that the compressor is an expensive part of the AC. Poor airflow from a faulty blower can cause the liquid refrigerant to reach the compressor and break it. So it’s important to inspect it regularly if you really want to save money in the long run.
When Should You Call a Technician?
There are clear signs that the unit needs immediate attention. For example, if your unit blows warm air even in cool mode, it means the compressor is broken. And if little air comes out of the vents, this could mean the fan motor is dying.
Also, see if the AC is sounding like a screeching car or a metal grinder, which indicates that the belts are worn out. You may also see water pooling around the indoor/outdoor unit because the drain pipe is clogged.
People who pay closer attention to the AC’s maintenance always live more comfortably in their homes or offices than those who neglect it.