Your central air conditioning system is responsible for keeping your home cool and comfortable on even the hottest of days of summer. And after a winter’s long hibernation, it deserves a little TLC to make sure it’s ready for the hotter days ahead. Yet many homeowners put off annual AC maintenance until summer arrives, or worse, skip it all together. Doing so can reduce the efficiency of your system by approximately 5 percent each year and can result in frequent repairs, higher utility bills, and premature system failure.
Follow these maintenance tips to ensure your AC system is ready to go to work on the first hot day of the year.
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Change the air filter.
Changing the air filter is one of the easiest things you can do to help your AC system run more efficiently and effectively and ensure cleaner indoor air. It is recommended that HVAC filters be replaced every 8 weeks or more often if you have pets that shed or if someone in your home smokes, has asthma, allergies, or other respiratory issues.
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Clean up.
Vacuum or dust indoor air vents and make sure they are not blocked or obstructed. Head outside and clear away any leaves, sticks, or other debris from the outdoor unit. If you have shrubbery or other plantings, leave at least a two-foot clearance around the unit.
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Eliminate air leaks.
Air leaks and poor insulation are responsible for up to 40 percent of your utility bills. While windows and exterior doors are the most common culprits, conditioned air can also escape through electrical outlets and light switches, areas where plumbing or electrical wires enter through walls, floors, and ceilings, kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans, attics that lack proper insulation, and through fireplaces.
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Schedule a pre-season inspection & tune-up
One of the best things you can do for your AC system is to have it inspected and tuned-up once a year by a licensed HVAC technician. You’ll enjoy more scheduling flexibility, increased system efficiency, lower operating costs, and less risk of mid-summer breakdowns.
Importance of Professional AC Maintenance
During a preventive maintenance appointment, an HVAC technician will carefully inspects all system components, perform a full safety test, tighten loose electrical connections, lubricate motors and other moving parts, clean dirty components, replace the air filter if needed, assess the system’s overall condition and performance, and identify any potential problem areas, plus much more.
Some of the key benefits you’ll enjoy from regular maintenance include:
- Increased system performance and safety
- Increased energy efficiency
- Lower utility costs
- Reduced risk of repairs and breakdowns
- Extended equipment lifespan
- Cleaner indoor air
- Enhanced home comfort
At Air Professionals, your comfort and safety are of key importance to us. Which is why we offer comprehensive maintenance services guaranteed to keep your AC in the best shape possible. Contact us today to schedule service and enjoy a cool and comfortable home all summer long.