Air conditioner repair isn’t as cheap as replacing a unit, but it can save you money in the long run. It’s also important to keep up with maintenance and preventative measures to extend the life of your system and keep it running as efficiently as possible.
The first thing to do is to inspect your air conditioning unit and make sure it’s in good condition. The inspection will reveal any minor issues, so you can fix them before they become big problems. You’ll also get a sense of the overall condition of your AC and whether it needs to be replaced.
Often, the most obvious sign of an AC issue is that it’s not blowing cool air anymore. However, you should also look for a few more subtle signs that it’s time to call in the pros.
If you’ve changed your air filter regularly and it is still not cooling your house, you might have a dirty filter. This will cause your unit to work harder and not cool the room as quickly.
It can also affect the efficiency of your unit and may cause it to overheat. If this is happening, you’ll want to clean it and replace the filter.
Check the condenser coil and fins for dirt and debris. If you notice a lot of dust and debris, it’s best to remove the protective grille and clean the coils with a soft brush. Do not use water, as it could turn the accumulated dirt into mud and compact it between the fins.
Another thing you’ll want to do is to examine your ductwork and seal any leaks as soon as you find them. According to Pacific Gas & Electric, most houses’ ductwork leaks 10% to 30% of the air before it reaches your living space.
If your ductwork isn’t sealed, it can lead to increased energy bills and a less-efficient air conditioning system. A qualified technician can perform a duct-leakage test, which is a simple procedure that measures how much air escapes through your vents.
Your ductwork should be professionally cleaned and sealed at least once every five years, so it doesn’t clog with dander, debris and mold. A good duct cleaning will remove any buildup that Air Conditioner Repair could hinder your air conditioner’s performance and extend its life.
The most important part of a good duct cleaning is to have an experienced HVAC professional do the job. A licensed and experienced technician will be able to identify any potential problems and repair them as quickly as possible.
It’s also a good idea to take your AC system to a professional for an annual tune-up, which will help ensure that your unit is running smoothly and efficiently. During this appointment, your technician will clean the coils and other key parts of your system to prevent future issues.
You’ll also need to change your air filter regularly and have a qualified technician clean it, as this will help your system run more efficiently and last longer.