How Often Should You Service Your Air Conditioner?

Air conditioners are the unsung heroes of comfortable homes, working tirelessly to keep indoor temperatures right. Like any hardworking appliance, they need regular care to stay in shape. Keeping an AC unit humming for years is easy with a little knowledge and simple maintenance.

When to Schedule Air Conditioner Service

Most HVAC professionals recommend servicing air conditioners twice a year. The ideal times for these tune-ups are at the end of spring and fall, just before the system faces heavy workloads during summer and winter.

What Does an Air Conditioner Checkup Include?

During a professional AC tune-up, a technician inspects the system and looks at HVAC symbols to identify and address potential issues. This comprehensive service typically includes:

• Adding refrigerant, if necessary
• Changing filters
• Checking coolant levels
• Cleaning evaporator coils
• Checking fan belt tension
• Cleaning the condenser
• Lubricating the motor

A tech will also replace worn parts: belts, motors, control boards, or fans.

Additional Services

Technicians might perform tasks that contribute to your system’s efficiency and longevity. These tasks can include cleaning and tightening electrical connections, measuring voltage and current on motors, and conducting additional diagnostics to ensure that every part of the system operates correctly.

Technicians might offer advice on improving system efficiency, such as upgrading to a programmable thermostat or sealing ductwork leaks. If you follow these recommendations, you’ll likely notice significant improvements in your system’s performance and energy savings.

DIY Air Conditioner Maintenance Tasks

While professional service is crucial, there are several maintenance tasks you can perform yourself to keep your AC unit running smoothly between checkups.

Thermostat Maintenance

The thermostat is the brain of an HVAC system, controlling when the AC unit turns on and off. Changing the batteries annually or when the low battery notification appears is essential for battery-powered thermostats. It’s wise to check the prongs on the back of the thermostat’s face, ensuring they’re not bent, broken, or missing.

Maintaining the thermostat includes calibrating it to ensure accurate temperature readings. An incorrectly calibrated thermostat can cause the system to run inefficiently, either by cooling the space more than necessary or not enough. Calibrating the thermostat may seem complex, but many instructional guides are available to help you through the process.

Coil Cleaning

Air conditioners use both a condenser coil and an evaporator coil. The indoor coil removes heat and moisture from the home, while the outdoor coil cools the refrigerant. Cleaning these coils every year improves system efficiency. While coil cleaning is a task you can probably tackle, it requires careful attention to safety precautions. Those uncomfortable with the process should hire a professional.

Dirty coils force the system to work harder to achieve the temperature you desire, leading to increased wear and tear and reduced lifespan. Cleaning the coils improves airflow and ensures the efficient transfer of heat, which is critical for maintaining the system’s overall effectiveness.

Ductwork Cleaning

Many homes, especially older ones, have never had their ductwork cleaned. Years of accumulated dust and debris in the vents can affect air quality and system efficiency. Professional duct cleaning uses EPA-approved cleaners to remove dust, allergens, and harmful microorganisms.

Periodically inspecting ducts for leaks or dents is another critical maintenance task. Sealing leaks with duct mastic or metal tape stops conditioned air from leaving the system. This sealing ensures the air goes to the right places and improves the system’s performance.

Air Filter Replacement

Regularly changing air filters is one of the simplest yet most important maintenance tasks. Clogged filters limit airflow and strain the air conditioner, decreasing efficiency and potential system breakdowns. The frequency of filter changes depends on factors like pet ownership and local air quality, but most homes benefit from monthly changes during peak usage seasons.

Better indoor air quality by using HEPA filters can improve your health. They trap smaller particles like pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. Talk to [an HVAC professional to ensure their systems can handle these more robust filters without compromising performance.

Drain Line Cleaning

During the summer months, your air conditioner produces more condensation. As it cools hot air, it collects moisture. Cold air can’t hold as much as warm air. So, you should check the drain line before every cooling season.

The condensation drain line carries water, and the AC unit collects it away from the home. A clogged drain can lead to water overflow,‌ causing significant damage, especially if the unit resides in or above finished living spaces. Checking and cleaning the drain line before each cooling season helps prevent these issues.

To keep the drain line clear, pour a mixture of bleach and water into the drain line and let it sit for a few minutes before cleaning it. That will prevent algae and mold buildup. Make sure the line is clear of obstructions. 

Exterior Unit Maintenance

The outdoor unit of an air conditioner requires particular attention to ensure optimal performance. Over time, the unit can accumulate dirt, leaves, and other debris, obstructing ventilation and reducing efficiency. You should clear the area around the unit and trim any overgrown plants or shrubs to maintain at least two feet of clearance.

Washing the exterior unit with a hose can help remove surface dirt, while more thorough cleaning may require removing the unit’s casing. Before performing any cleaning tasks, turn off the power to the unit to prevent accidents. 

For more information on cleaning your air conditioner drain line, check out this video:

The Consequences of Neglecting AC Maintenance

Skipping regular air conditioner maintenance is a way to save money in the short term, but it often leads to higher costs later. Here’s what can happen when you neglect AC service.

Higher Energy Bills

A well-maintained HVAC system operates more efficiently, using less energy to cool a home. Neglected systems have to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.

Voided Warranty

Some air conditioner manufacturers require proof of regular maintenance to keep warranties valid. Failing to service the unit as recommended could void the warranty, leaving you responsible for costly repairs.

Poor Indoor Air Quality

Dirty AC systems can negatively affect indoor air quality, so routinely disinfect your AC. When you do not often clean parts like ductwork, air conditioners, and filters, they become places for mold and mildew to grow. Mold causes health problems for people living in the house.

Unmaintained systems can circulate dust, pollen, and other allergens throughout the home. Poor indoor air quality can worsen respiratory conditions and lead to discomfort for all occupants, making regular maintenance crucial for health.

More Frequent Breakdowns

Neglecting maintenance increases the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns, often at the worst possible times. Overworked parts are more prone to failure, leading to costly emergency repairs and significant inconvenience during peak usage seasons.

How to Save Money on Air Conditioner Service

While regular AC service is essential, there are ways to manage how much you pay for twice-a-year service:

• Consider a home warranty that covers HVAC systems. Some plans include annual service and cover major parts like heat pumps, furnaces, and compressor units.
• Look for HVAC service plans that offer discounted rates for regular maintenance visits.
• Perform simple maintenance tasks, such as changing air filters and keeping the area around the outdoor unit clear of debris.

Seasonal Promotions

Many HVAC companies offer seasonal promotions for maintenance services, often providing discounts during less busy times of the year. You can use these promotions to schedule their service at a lower cost.

Loyalty Programs

Some HVAC companies offer loyalty programs for regular customers, providing discounts, priority service, and additional perks for continued patronage. Enrolling in these programs can yield significant savings over time.

Final Thoughts About Air Conditioner Servicing

Air conditioner maintenance is not a suggestion. It’s a must for any homeowner who wants to make their HVAC system comfortable, efficient, and last longer.