Do Air Conditioners Need Maintenance?

Could Your Home Benefit From AC Maintenance?

The air conditioner is one of the most used appliances in the home and often the most neglected. While most homeowners don’t give them a second thought until they stop working, they’re also one of the easiest appliances to keep working with routine maintenance. While it seems like an added expense, it often has massive benefits beyond avoiding an emergency. In this article, AC maintenance experts share three perks homeowners can expect by scheduling annual care. 

Lower Utility Costs 

save money Air conditioners are the highest energy consumers in the home, particularly during the summer months. However, this can often stem less from increased temperatures and more from inefficient systems. For example, a dirty air filter can limit airflow and decrease the home’s air quality.  In turn, the system runs longer to overcompensate for the blockage, which increases homeowners’ energy costs. 

That’s why one of the easiest places to start with air conditioning maintenance is with the air filter. On average, homeowners can expect to replace theirs every quarter, with more frequent replacements needed for homes with pets or residents who suffer from allergies. Additionally, homeowners can opt for higher-quality air filter replacements, with options rated to catch more pollutants inside the home. Additionally, because not all air filters are a universal size, working with a professional can ensure the right filter matches the system. 

Fewer Repairs

During an AC maintenance appointment, technicians will often inspect the various components of the system, including:

  • Electrical wiring
  • Internal components
  • Refrigerant levels
  • Condition of the evaporator coils
  • Air filter health

As they explore the internal components of the AC, they also have an opportunity to spot any issues. While a minor air conditioning repair will still cost, should they find something, this early detection prevents larger emergencies. Sometimes, minor repairs will also be part of the maintenance appointment, which generally means lower costs. 

Extended Lifespan

hvac Finally, and most importantly, routine care can help extend a system’s lifespan. On average, a unit can last between ten and 15 years before an air conditioner replacement is needed. However, that’s also based on the assumption that the system is getting the care it needs. With routine care, homeowners can add at least two to five years to the unit’s lifespan. 

Most AC companies will also work with a homeowner’s specific needs to find the best maintenance plan and cadence for the system. At a minimum, spring is the perfect time to schedule a maintenance appointment, as it’s often right before the system gets the most use in the summer.

And while it can seem like an added expense for homeowners, the benefits often outweigh the cost, ensuring peace of mind that the system will work at its best for longer. 

About Air Care Heating and Cooling

Air Care Heating and Cooling has provided Mint Hill, NC, homeowners with top-rated air conditioner maintenance and service for over 20 years. Their technicians are fully licensed and trained to provide top-quality service and offer upfront pricing on every service call. Contact them today to schedule spring AC maintenance