How Often Should You Service Your Air Conditioner? Expert’s Opinion

Did you know that a well-maintained air conditioner can last between 15-20 years? That’s right – with proper care and regular maintenance, you can enjoy cool, comfortable air in your home for well over a decade. But the key to unlocking this longevity lies in knowing when and how often to service your AC unit.

Many homeowners wait until their air conditioner breaks down before calling for help, but this reactive approach can lead to costly repairs and shortened equipment life.

The truth is, the best time to schedule ac maintenance is during the spring, before the cooling season begins.

By servicing your unit proactively, you can catch minor issues before they turn into major problems, letting your system operate at peak efficiency when you need it most.

Plus, with today’s energy-efficient models using 39% less energy than their 1990 counterparts, regular maintenance can help you save money on your utility bills while reducing your environmental impact.

So, how often should you service your air conditioner, and what steps can you take to keep it running smoothly? Keep reading to know the secrets to a long-lasting, efficient unit that will keep you cool and comfortable for years to come.

When Should You Get Your AC Serviced?

To keep your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently, it’s recommended to have it serviced twice a year: once in the fall and once in the spring.

This biannual maintenance schedule prepares your unit for the cooling demands of summer and the heating needs of winter.

The frequency of servicing also depends on the amount of refrigerant your air conditioner contains. According to Daikin, if your AC holds less than three kilograms of coolant, maintenance is not legally required. But if your unit contains more refrigerant, the following guidelines apply:

• 5 TCO2 of coolant: Your unit requires annual maintenance
• 50 TCO2 refrigerant: Your air conditioner needs a service check every six months
• 500 TCO2 refrigerant: Your AC system requires a service check every three months

An experienced professional can help you determine the amount of refrigerant in your air conditioning system and create a tailored maintenance plan to keep your system running efficiently.

Signs Your AC Unit Needs Maintenance

1. Blowing warm air instead of cool air

If your air conditioner is blowing warm air instead of cool air, it’s a clear sign that your AC needs maintenance. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, such as low refrigerant levels, a malfunctioning compressor, or a dirty air filter.

2. Weird noises from the AC

Unusual noises coming from your air conditioner, such as squealing, grinding, or rattling, indicate that your AC needs attention. These sounds can be caused by loose or worn-out components, such as fan blades, belts, or motors.

Ignoring these noises can lead to more severe damage and costly repairs, so it’s better to schedule the maintenance visit as soon as possible.

3. Musty odors

If you notice musty or unpleasant odors coming from your air conditioning system, it could be a sign of mold or mildew growth within the unit. This issue is often caused by excess moisture because of a clogged condensate drain line or a dirty evaporator coil.

In addition to these immediate health concerns, exposure to mold spores can also lead to long-term health problems, such as neurological disorders, according to a study published in the journal, Frontiers in Neurology.

4. High energy bills

A sudden increase in your energy bills, despite consistent usage, could indicate that your air conditioner is working harder than necessary to cool your home.

This inefficiency can be caused by various factors, such as a dirty air filter, low refrigerant levels, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

5. High humidity indoors in summer and rainy season

If you notice high humidity levels inside your home during the summer and rainy season, it could be a sign that your air conditioner is not effectively removing moisture from the air.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, humidity should be lower than 50% in your home for a comfortable atmosphere.

This issue can be caused by a dirty evaporator coil, a clogged condensate drain line, or a malfunctioning fan.

6. High electricity bills

Similar to high energy bills, a sudden increase in your electricity bills can indicate that your air conditioner is not operating efficiently.

This could be due to a variety of factors, such as a malfunctioning compressor, a dirty condenser coil, or a refrigerant leak.

Benefits of AC Servicing

1. Purify Air Quality

One of the most significant benefits of regular AC maintenance is improved indoor air quality. Your air conditioner’s filters are designed to capture pollutants, contaminants, and airborne particles, including those that may contain viruses.

By keeping your AC filters clean and replacing them as needed, you can effectively reduce the number of harmful particles circulating in your home.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), air cleaning and filtration can help reduce airborne contaminants, including particles containing viruses.

2. Reduces Humidity Indoors

Another key benefit of regular air conditioner maintenance is its ability to reduce indoor humidity levels. High humidity can create an uncomfortable living environment and promote the growth of mold and mildew, which can pose serious health risks to you and your family.

Mold and mildew can worsen your existing allergies. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), even those without allergies can experience irritation, muscle aches, chills, fever, night sweats, and profound fatigue.

3. Improves Your Energy-Efficiency

Regular air conditioner maintenance helps in improving your system’s energy efficiency. Without annual service, your AC unit will continually become less efficient and effective, leading to higher energy bills and reduced cooling performance.

In fact, every hour your air conditioner runs at 5-10% less efficiency, you’re paying more money for less cooling. This means that neglecting routine maintenance can impact your energy costs over time.

4. Increases the Life of Your System

Investing in regular air conditioner maintenance can extend the life of your cooling system. Most air conditioners last between 12-20 years, but this lifespan can be greatly reduced without proper care and upkeep.

Over time, dust and grime can accumulate within your unit, forcing it to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This increased wear-and-tear can lead to premature system failure and costly repairs.

This includes changing air filters every 1-3 months, cleaning the evaporator coil and condenser, and inspecting all components for signs of wear or damage.

5. Requires Fewer Costly Service Calls and Repairs

One of the most significant benefits of regular AC maintenance is that it can help prevent costly service calls and repairs.

During a routine maintenance visit, the technician will thoroughly inspect your  system, identifying any issues before they escalate into major problems.

This proactive approach allows you to address minor concerns, such as worn parts or loose connections, before they cause further deterioration or lead to a complete system breakdown.

6. More Comfort

Regular air conditioner maintenance not only saves you money but also increases your overall comfort. A well-maintained unit is less likely to experience breakdowns or performance issues in the middle of hot and sweaty nights.

This helps in you and your family enjoying consistent, reliable cooling throughout the hot summer months.

When your air conditioner is running properly, it can better maintain your desired indoor temperature and humidity levels.

This means fewer fluctuations in comfort and a more stable indoor environment. A clean and properly functioning AC system can also improve indoor air quality by filtering out pollutants, allergens, and other airborne particles.

How Much Does Air Conditioning Service Cost?

The cost of air conditioning service varies depending on your unit’s specific needs. A thorough tune-up of a standard central air and furnace combination typically ranges from $160 to $400, while maintaining a window unit can be as low as $60 per year.

Routine service visits, which include inspecting your system, cleaning components, and making necessary adjustments, usually cost between $200 and $400, depending on any related repairs that may be required.

Proactive maintenance goes beyond a basic inspection and may include tasks such as tuning up your AC unit, cleaning heating elements, and, in some cases, cleaning air ducts. These additional services can cost anywhere from $70 to $200, depending on the extent of the work needed.

Proactive maintenance is essential for keeping your air conditioner running efficiently, extending its lifespan, and preventing costly repairs in the future.

What Does Air Conditioning Maintenance Include?

A typical air conditioning maintenance check-up should include the following steps, as recommended by ENERGY STAR, which is an official government website:

1. Check thermostat settings

An HVAC professional will make sure that your thermostat is properly programmed to maintain your desired temperature settings. They will also check that your thermostat is communicating effectively with your system.

2. Tighten all electrical connections

Loose electrical connections can cause safety hazards and reduce the efficiency of your AC system. During maintenance, a technician will inspect and tighten all electrical connections for proper operation and safety.

3. Lubricate all moving parts

Over time, the moving parts in your air conditioner can become dry and cause friction, leading to increased wear and tear.

An HVAC professional will lubricate all moving parts in your indoor as well as outdoor unit, such as motors and bearings, air conditioner’s evaporator coil to reduce friction and extend the life of your AC unit.

4. Check and inspect the condensate drain

A clogged condensate drain can cause water damage and promote the growth of mold and mildew.

5. Check controls of the system

Controls of your system includes the starting cycle, shutdown, and safety controls. These are checked to prevent malfunctions for smooth operation.

6. Change or clean air filters

Dirty air filters can restrict airflow, reduce efficiency, and worsen indoor air quality. It is recommended to change your air filters every 3 months to maintain optimal performance and air quality.

Contact HVAC Angel for Quality Air Conditioner Service

At HVAC Angel, we understand the importance of keeping your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently. That’s why we partner with several licensed HVAC companies to provide reliable and professional AC maintenance services.

Our trusted partners are committed to delivering top-quality air conditioning service and repairs, keeping your home comfortable throughout the year.

When you need AC maintenance or repairs, simply call us at [phone number], enter your zip code, and we will connect you with our partnered AC technician in your town.

Our experienced technicians will work diligently to diagnose and resolve any issues with your system, helping in running your air conditioner for a longer time.

Contact HVAC Angel today to learn more about our AC servicing and maintenance packages.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I service my air conditioner?

Air conditioners require regular maintenance so, it is recommended to service them at least once a year for good performance and efficiency. Routine servicing helps in extending the lifespan of your AC unit and prevents issues.

2. What does a professional ac entail?

A comprehensive air conditioner service includes checking and cleaning the air filter, inspecting the compressor, hvac system evaluation, and ensuring all components are functioning properly to keep your AC system in top condition.

3. How important is regular maintenance for an air conditioning system?

Regular HVAC service increases the longevity and efficiency of your air conditioner. It helps in preventing breakdowns, improving indoor air quality, and reducing energy consumption.

4. Is it necessary to service your AC even if it’s working fine?

Yes, it is still important to service your AC regularly even if it appears to be functioning properly. Preventive maintenance can identify problems early on and save you from costly repairs in the future.

5. How frequently should you consider replacing your AC unit?

Typically, air conditioners require replacement every 10-15 years, depending on usage and maintenance history. It’s advisable to get your AC unit serviced regularly to prolong its lifespan.

6. What are the benefits of hiring a HVAC technician for AC maintenance?

Professional maintenance by a skilled HVAC technician gets you a thorough inspection, cleaning, and repairs of your AC system. They can optimize the performance, improve energy efficiency, and address any underlying issues in your system.