To prevent an unexpected air conditioning repair, you need to stay on a maintenance schedule. To save money and energy, it pays–literally–to follow a regular service program. Taking care of your cooling system is just as important as following a heart-healthy exercise plan. Preventive maintenance is necessary when you’re taking care of a home, whether it involves plumbing, your electrical system or your HVAC.
Why Your AC May Stop Working
Living in a hot and humid climate means regular AC maintenance is especially important. A demanding warm and humid climate stresses AC units, requiring more frequent repairs over time. Let’s look at some of the reasons why your AC may stop working.
- A dirty air filter. When you don’t change your air filter regularly, dirt will collect, which prevents the cool air from passing through the buildup.
- A low refrigerant level. Regular maintenance keeps the refrigerant at the proper level for continued operation of your AC.
- Blocked condenser unit. Bushes or other objects can block the airflow around the condenser unit outside. This can lead to overheating and an unexpected air conditioner repair.
- Faulty thermostat. If the thermostat is to blame, it may be due to a loose wire. In some cases, the service technician may need to make an adjustment to the control board which sends signals for cooling the air.
One thing often leads to another when you are dealing with air conditioning repair. For example, if your blower fan is broken or your refrigerant runs low, it can cause the evaporator coils to freeze and your AC will stop working unexpectedly.
Keeping your home’s HVAC operational is just as important to you as learning CPR. It can be a lifesaver, especially when it’s really warm or cold outside.
The Importance of Scheduling Maintenance
It’s best to schedule two appointments for HVAC maintenance each year. Again, doing so will lower your energy consumption and reduce the risk of an unforeseen air conditioning or heating repair.
Maintenance involves:
- Cleaning or replacing the air filter
- Calibrating and checking the thermostat
- Tightening electrical connections, if required
- Checking amperage and voltage on key components
- Inspecting parts for corrosion, wear, and damage
- Lubricating moving parts to reduce friction and to lower the risk of mechanical failure
- Checking and adjusting the refrigerant level for you AC
- Cleaning the condensate drain line to avoid water damage
- Reviewing and checking all the systems that support AC and heating operations
Again, you can avoid an unexpected air conditioning repair by following a regular program of maintenance. You can also keep your home comfortably cool or warm during the hot or chilly times of the year.
Signs that Your AC is Breaking Down or Needs Repair
Even the best AC system will break down after 9 to 12 years when it is subjected to Florida’s heat and humidity. You may need to install a new AC if you’re experiencing more than your fair share of AC repairs.
Below are red flags that signal it’s time to replace or repair your AC:
- Your energy bills are higher. Older AC systems consume more energy.
- Your AC is growling, clicking, or rattling. While you will hear some noise when your AC comes on, any loud or unusual sound is a warning sign.
- Your AC is not really cooling your house. If your AC is not blowing cold air, you may need to have the condensate line checked, or your air filter may need cleaning. Sometimes, the problem is related to a refrigerant leak or to a problem with the compressor.
If you are having cooling problems, you need to contact a service technician now. Don’t wait. Make maintenance a priority.
Author Bio: Donna Ryan is a writer from Tucson, AZ
