By Alex Joy
It’s no secret that summer can be rough, especially when your air conditioner stops working. Unfortunately, many homeowners make the same mistakes when maintaining their AC units. To keep your AC running efficiently and avoid costly repairs, you must avoid these five most common AC maintenance mistakes.
Skipping preventive maintenance
Regularly scheduled AC tune-ups can help prevent minor problems from becoming more serious and expensive repairs. If you skip preventive maintenance, your air conditioner may become clogged with dirt, dust, and debris, which will cause it to run less efficiently and use more energy than necessary. To avoid this, schedule regular tune-ups for your AC unit.
Neglecting filter changes
One of the quickest and easiest things you can do to maintain your air conditioner is to change the filter regularly. Dirty filters will prevent air from flowing freely through your system, which will, in turn, cause it to work harder than necessary. Changing your filter every 1-3 months ensures that air can freely pass through your system.
Not checking for refrigerant leaks
If you notice a decrease in cooling or an increase in energy bills, this could indicate a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant should never be added without first identifying and sealing the leak. This process requires professional help, so contact a qualified technician if you suspect you have a refrigerant leak.
Ignoring strange noises
If your AC unit starts making strange sounds, this could indicate an issue with the motor or fan blades. A qualified service technician should inspect any unusual noises and adjust or replace any parts as needed.
Not cleaning the outdoor unit
The outdoor condenser unit should be cleaned periodically to remove dirt, leaves, and other debris that can get trapped in the coils and reduce airflow. Check your manual for recommended cleaning intervals, or contact a local AC repair specialist for assistance.
By avoiding these five common maintenance mistakes, you can ensure that your AC unit runs efficiently and reliably throughout the summer months. If you need help with any of these tasks, contact a qualified air conditioning maintenance technician for assistance. Book a service appointment today!
