Updated at: 11-10-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

When you own a home, your to-do list never seems to be finished. While you’re cleaning out the quarantine, don’t forget to keep an eye out for the need for AC maintenance. Summers in Tennessee are notoriously hot, and this year’s could be the hottest on record. You’ll want to check your air conditioner now that summer is just around the corner. How frequently should I have my air conditioner serviced? You should have your air conditioner serviced by a professional at least once a year in the ideal world.

Responsible home ownership necessitates regular checkups on your air conditioner. Maintaining your air conditioner on a regular basis will help it last for many years and save you money on your cooling bills. The efficiency of your system diminishes over time. As time passes, cracks form and a buildup of gunk forms within your appliance. As a result of all of these factors, your air conditioner will have to work harder, which will result in higher electricity costs.

Find out what regular AC maintenance comprises for your home in the following paragraphs.

How Often Is AC Service Needed?

As a general rule, your air conditioner should be serviced twice a year: once in the fall and again in the spring. Keeping it clean, maintaining good parts, and ensuring it runs at peak efficiency are all important considerations.

How Often Should I Service My Air Conditioner? - Air Repair Pros

HVAC professionals focus their attention on your heater or furnace in the fall in order to get it ready for the cold weather. HVAC experts arrange air conditioner tune-ups in the spring once the weather warms up, so they’re ready for the humidity and heat.

However, this does not imply that you should do nothing to keep your air conditioner in good working order. It’s actually a good idea to do so. Professional AC maintenance, on the other hand, should be performed twice a year at the very least.

The Benefits of AC Maintenance Contracts

Contracts for routine maintenance are becoming more common in the HVAC industry nowadays. This is a type of contract in which the consumer agrees to pay for a specific service in exchange for a fixed sum of money. Many components and accessories are discounted as part of a service plan, which includes a twice-yearly examination.

The following are some of the advantages of AC maintenance contracts:

Priority Service

In the midst of a mechanical breakdown? With a maintenance agreement, you won’t have to wait long for a technician to arrive and fix your AC.

Customer priority service is included in a large number of maintenance agreements. When it’s time to provide services, these consumers are the first on the list to be scheduled.

Companies are able to do this because HVAC systems that are properly maintained break down far less frequently than those that are not.

Discounts on Most Parts and Accessories

Repairing an air conditioner isn’t inexpensive. Rehab costs might reach several thousand dollars for some vehicles. Compressor failure is a costly repair that prevents air conditioning from working.

There is nothing better than getting a discount on a product. Our Peace of Mind Protection Plan, a pre-paid HVAC maintenance agreement, makes this possible for you. It is true that you will have to pay for scheduled maintenance in advance, but if you have discounts on your side, you will end up saving money in the long run.

If you want to invest in a whole home dehumidifier or whole home air purification system, signing on to a scheduled maintenance agreement can also be a savings to you.

Regular HVAC Maintenance Checkups

You can save money by signing up for a periodic maintenance agreement if you purchase a whole-home dehumidifier or air purification system.

The lifespan of your air conditioner and heating system depends on regular checks, which should be performed at least twice a year. Annual inspections are cost-effective, both in the short and long term.

What Does AC Service Include?

How does your AC get serviced, you may wonder? It’s a combination of a variety of factors that affect the performance and lifespan of your air conditioner.

When it comes to lubricating your AC’s components, for example, your AC specialist will do so. Aside from that, he or she will clean the components to make sure they work properly.

In addition, the flow of electricity and air will be measured. The AC technician will let you know if anything is wrong.

There will be a thorough examination of the air conditioner’s components, including the blower, condenser and the ducting itself. The level of refrigerant will also be tested. In some cases, we may be able to do simple repairs without charging a labor fee.

It’s very uncommon for condensate drains to become clogged in the spring and fall because air conditioners aren’t working as much and mold and filth can build up quickly. HVAC systems we install have ceiling saver switches that automatically shut off the unit if its condensate drain becomes clogged. To prevent costly water leaks on your ceiling and walls, we install them.

Additionally, your expert will verify that your thermostat is accurate and connecting effectively with your air conditioner. He or she will re-calibrate or re-program it if the need arises.

For the most part, you can anticipate a thorough inspection of your AC, which will likely require extensive maintenance. It is essential to get regular AC maintenance to keep your system running at peak efficiency.

When Should You Service Your AC?

When should you have your air conditioner serviced, and how often? Every spring, have your air conditioner serviced. A preemptive maintenance check on your air conditioner is a good idea. Waiting until the heat of summer has already arrived could leave you sweltering in discomfort while the HVAC professional fixes any problems they discover.

You could be without air conditioning for days if they have to order new parts. Take precautions to avoid melting in the mid-summer heat. Before the summer heat hits, contact a local air conditioning contractor for assistance.

Professional Air Conditioner Maintenance

The upkeep of a home’s air conditioning system is an essential element of homeownership.

As a homeowner, you have a number of options for do-it-yourself projects, but if you want a regular HVAC tune-up, you should hire a pro. You can rely on the skills and experience of an HVAC contractor to keep your system functioning well for years to come..

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about home AC maintenance performed by a professional.

How Often Should I Service My Air Conditioner?

You should get your air conditioning unit checked up by a professional every year to ensure it is in good working order. A professional inspection is necessary once a year, but there are several things you can do to extend the life of your unit.

In order to have your air conditioner ready for the hot summer months, plan your annual service in early spring. As spring gives way to summer heat, now is the time to check on the condition of your air conditioner.

How Much Does AC Maintenance Cost in TN

Customers can be confident in Hiller’s clear and affordable pricing. The price we give you is always the price you’ll be charged. In addition, you may get a clear pricing structure on the internet.

A diagnostic visit is included with every repair and you will never be charged for it. Repairs for 85 percent of our clients cost no more than $199 including components, and that’s because we value our customers’ business.

The cost of the parts your expert will need and the severity of the repair will determine the total cost of your AC maintenance.

What Does AC Maintenance Include?

Regular AC maintenance is something you should do, but what exactly does that maintenance entail?

What are the advantages of annual AC maintenance, and how does it work? Continue reading to find out everything you need to know about your yearly AC maintenance.

Thermostat Calibration

Ensure that your thermostat is functioning properly. Your home’s cooling efficiency can suffer if your thermostat is misaligned. Your thermostat will be calibrated and tested by your technician.

Make sure your thermostat isn’t near any heat sources as well. Too close to a light bulb or other source of heat will make it impossible for your thermostat to accurately measure the temperature in your house.

Ensure Electrical Connection

Hire an HVAC professional to ensure that your electrical wires are safe and secure.

All of your electrical wiring will be inspected by your HVAC professional for potential fire dangers. Your cables and electrical connections will be securely insulated and tightened as well.

Lubricate Moving Parts

There are many moving parts in your air conditioner that require regular lubrication. Your air conditioner’s components will wear out prematurely if they don’t have adequate lubrication to prevent them from grinding against each other.

The central fan and motor will be oiled by your HVAC technician. They have a lot of knowledge and know exactly how much oil to use to effectively lubricate your air conditioner.

How Often Should I Service My Air Conditioner? | Carrier Air

Service Your Air Conditioner’s Condensate Drain Line

Your condensate drain must be cleaned on a regular basis. Your condensate drain removes moisture from the evaporator coil, preventing it from condensing. Humidity is converted to water in the evaporator coil, which must be removed from your system.

Leaks, moisture, and mold can all result from a clogged condensate line. Your line will be inspected by the specialist to ensure that there are no leaks or cracks. They will also take care of any leaks or breaks in your lines to prevent any harm to your system.

In addition, they will clean your condensate drain line to ensure that your HVAC system is free of bacteria and mold.

Inspect Coils

Your condenser coil is an important part of your AC unit, and if it is dirty or obstructed your unit won’t operate as efficiently. This puts undue stress on your AC unit which can lead to it malfunctioning.

Having a filthy or clogged condenser coil will reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning machine. This can cause your AC unit to malfunction as a result of excessive stress.

Additionally, your expert will inspect and clean your evaporator coil to ensure that it is functioning properly. As the evaporator coil absorbs heat from the air, it circulates this cool air throughout your home.

Dirty evaporator coils force your HVAC system to work harder to cool the air, putting more strain on it. As a result of the system’s decreased efficiency, you’ll have to pay extra to keep your home cool.

Inspect Parts for Wear and Tear

Additionally, your AC specialist will inspect your HVAC system thoroughly to search for any signs of damage. It’s critical to fix HVAC components that are malfunctioning before they do serious damage to the system.

Having your cooling system thoroughly inspected by an AC specialist will ensure that it will continue to function properly for many years to come.

Inspect Duct Work

Your HVAC’s duct system serves as a superhighway for both cooling and heating. The ductwork in your house transports cold air throughout the house. Duct leakage or damage might result in the loss of cold air that is essential to your comfort.

The best time to have your ducts inspected is during your yearly checkup. Professionals in air conditioning will inspect your ductwork to make sure it is airtight and functioning properly.

How to Clean Your AC Unit Between Professional AC Service

An essential aspect of HVAC system upkeep is having your air conditioner serviced on a yearly basis. However, a lot can happen in the time between your yearly AC checkups. If you want to keep your system in top shape, you need to do frequent tune-ups.

Keep reading to find out how to do regular AC maintenance on your unit.

Change Your Filter

One of the simplest ways to keep your air conditioner in peak working order is to change the air filter. You must change all of your home’s air conditioning filters on a regular basis.

The usual airflow of your air conditioner is obstructed by a filthy air filter. Your cooling expenses will go up as a result of this, making your system less efficient. Changing your dirty air filter with a new one can actually help you save money on your utility bills.

In addition, a dirty air conditioner’s evaporator coil can be contaminated by a clogged filter. As a result, your air conditioner won’t be able to detect temperatures correctly and make the necessary adjustments to keep your house cool.

When should I replace my air conditioner filter? When it comes to your filter, it all depends. Every month is the recommended interval for replacing fiberglass filters. Higher-end filters can last for up to 6 months.

However, in the summer months, you may have to update your air conditioner more frequently. Every few weeks, check the condition of your air filters. It’s time to replace the filter if it becomes dusty or blocked.

Clean Your Coils

Dirt will build up on the condenser and evaporator coils of your air conditioner over time. Coils need to be cleaned on a regular basis to ensure adequate airflow and optimal unit performance.

Changing your air conditioner filters on a regular basis is the first line of defense against clogged coils. Cleaning your AC’s coils is still necessary, even if you change your AC filters frequently.

You should clean your coils more frequently if you live in a dusty area.

Deep Clean Your Unit

Another fantastic strategy to maintain your air conditioner functioning well is to perform periodic deep cleanings on it.

A good deep clean can do wonders for your AC unit in between professional maintenance. Begin by turning off your unit to keep you safe. Then take a vacuum and a soft-bristle brush attachment to clean the exterior of your AC unit.

In between expert maintenance, a thorough cleaning may do wonders for your air conditioner. Ensure your own safety by shutting off your device. Vacuum the outside of your AC unit using a soft-bristle brush attachment.

After that, you’ll need to remove the grille on the top of the fan and carefully lift it out.

Keep the fan out of the way to avoid stressing the electrical wiring. To remove any remaining debris, use your hose to spray the fin from the inside out. Then, swap out the old fan.

Unbend Coil Fins

Airflow can be improved by simply straightening your AC’s coil fins. Your air conditioner has aluminum fins on the outside that allow air to flow freely around the unit.

Your AC unit’s airflow would be restricted if these delicate fins bend over time. If you’re having trouble with your AC unit’s ventilation, there’s a simple solution.

Using a coil fin comb is an easy way to straighten coils. Make careful to put on gloves before you begin the procedure. If the fins are twisted, they might be dangerously sharp.

Maintain the Foliage Around Your Unit

Did you realize that landscaping can effect your AC? The airflow around your AC unit can be impeded by overgrown vegetation or plants, reducing its performance.

To avoid airflow obstruction, keep the landscape around your unit tidy and clean. Make sure there is at least a 2-foot perimeter around your air conditioning unit.

Make sure the A/C unit is on a level surface as well. Your A/C unit’s concrete base may begin to sink into the earth after a while. An air conditioner that is leveled operates more efficiently and lasts longer.

Uneven weight distribution can cause your air conditioner to malfunction if it isn’t level. Avoid costly repairs by ensuring that your device is level on all sides.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

The use of a programmable thermostat can increase the life of your air conditioner. A more efficient HVAC system is made possible with programmable thermostats. The temperature in various parts of your house or at different times of the day can be programmed.

Your electric bill will be less expensive if you keep an eye on how much energy you use.

Additional temperature sensors are commonly included in programmable thermostats, which improves the thermostat’s ability to maintain a consistent temperature in the home throughout the day.

As a result, your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard, extending the lifespan of the complete HVAC system.

Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips

Additionally, you should provide your air conditioner with year-round maintenance in addition to the yearly appointment for AC maintenance that you have set up. The following are a few suggestions for routine maintenance:

Changing the HVAC Filter

A wide variety of dust and debris is drawn into air conditioning and heating systems from the surrounding environment. As a result, they are equipped with HVAC filters in order to decrease the quantity of residue they take in. These filters are effective at removing residue, but they quickly become overrun with it.

How Often Should I Service My Air Conditioner?

Therefore, it is necessary to change air filters frequently. Replace your air conditioner’s HVAC filter every three months if you want it to perform at its peak efficiency. As a result of the hair and dander that cats and dogs produce, you will need to replace this filter more frequently.

You should replace your furnace or air handler’s media filter every nine to twelve months if it’s inside your ductwork.

It is possible that your HVAC filter is positioned in your return air vents or in your furnace. When in doubt, your HVAC specialist will gladly show you where they are.

Keeping the Condenser Area Clean

The condenser of your air conditioner can be found on the exterior of your house. As a result, it’s vulnerable to damage from things like fallen branches, trampled-down stones and mud, and all manner of vegetation. Overhanging foliage can cause condensers to become jammed and mechanically damaged in rare situations.

When squirrels, ants and mice are drawn to the water, they might gnaw through the electrical wiring. It’s dangerous for them, and they could cause damage to your outdoor equipment as a result. Pests can be spotted by a professional, but you can also do a spot check yourself.

To minimize the chance of collateral damage, you should make sure to keep the area around your condenser clear. Keep 5 feet of clearance on each of its sides and ensure that the trees and hedges in its proximity are properly trimmed. That will also make it less attractive to critters.

Poor Vinegar Down Your Condensate Drain

Keep the space around your condenser clear to reduce the risk of collateral harm. Maintain a 5-foot clearance on all sides, and make sure the trees and hedges around it are well manicured. Critters will also find it less appealing if it isn’t as appealing to them.

Pour a cup of basic vinegar down your condensate drain every time the season changes to keep it clear and running smoothly. Your HVAC specialist should be able to help you with this if you’re having trouble or can’t recall. These obstructions can be prevented with long-term remedies.

Keep an Eye on Your Vent Covers

A duct system is commonly found in central air conditioning systems. The ducts in your home allow the cooled air from your air conditioner to circulate throughout the house. Vents that are fixed on walls or positioned in ceilings or floors are then used to distribute the air.

Keep a close eye on your vents for signs of mold growth. Mold can grow quickly if there is an excessive amount of dampness in the area. An HVAC professional can assist you if you’re unsure of the best course of action.

A blower unit, rather than ducts, is what you’ll get with a tiny split system. It is necessary to remove the cover and clean or vacuum the filters that are located inside.

Do You Really Need to Get Your AC Serviced Every Year?

The answer to the question, “Does it really matter how often you get your AC serviced?” is yes. Regular air conditioning maintenance has several benefits, not the least of which is the fact that it saves you money.

Detecting problems such as frayed wires, which can lead to compressor failure and other potentially hazardous electrical problems, is the job of an experienced HVAC expert. Having your air conditioning system maintained on a regular basis reduces the cost and size of the repairs. Without regular maintenance, you may not discover a problem with your appliance until it has grown to be much larger and costlier to repair.

In addition, an unserviced air conditioner loses 5 percent of its efficiency per year, resulting in higher energy costs. The system’s lifespan is reduced by as much as 50% as a result of this lack of regular maintenance. Up to $7,500 is the average cost of a new air conditioner.

What an Annual AC Service Covers

Regardless of how often you have your air conditioner serviced, the technician will complete the same set of procedures to ensure that your system is in good working order.

The following are examples of things an AC technician might do:

  • Replace the air filters.
  • Make that the indoor and exterior coils are in good condition.
  • Condensate pumps should be inspected
  • Ensure that the thermostat is functioning properly before using it again.
  • Remove any dirt and debris from the condensate pump.
  • Examine the entire HVAC system using a magnifying glass.
  • Remove any debris, dust, and grime from the system.

Should You Get an HVAC Service Plan?

Investing in a yearly HVAC service plan will help you save money while also ensuring that your system is in top working order. A service plan is an affordable alternative if your product is past its warranty period.

There are a few things to keep in mind before signing up for an HVAC service contract. If you have a plan that includes repairs, be sure to verify whether parts or labor are covered.

Some of the most typical chores included in an HVAC service plan are as follows:

  • Seasonal checkups and tune-ups are essential.
  • Replacements are filtered out.
  • It’s time to get your thermostat fixed.
  • removing obstructions from the airways
  • Inspecting and giving advise on insulation
  • Checks for lubricant and coolant
  • Inspections of the air’s health and quality

Need Air Conditioner Service in Katy, Texas?

After learning the answer to “how often should I service my air conditioner?” you may realize that you need air conditioner service right now. Our family-owned firm Terry’s A/C & Heating has you covered if you’re looking for an air conditioner company in Katy, Texas and the surrounding area.

Residential and light commercial air conditioners are our specialty, and we’ll make sure that yours is running at peak efficiency. See what our customers have to say about us and what they have to say about us. The staff here is eager to serve you. Make an appointment with us right now by contacting us!

Find Professional Air Conditioning Service in Tennessee

We’ve all heard that summers in Tennessee can get sweltering. Your home should be a haven from the sweltering temperatures of summer in Tennessee.

The cost of cooling your home this summer could be high if you haven’t had your air conditioner serviced recently. When should I have my air conditioner serviced?

Everyone should have their air conditioner serviced once a year at the earliest opportunity. Getting your air conditioner’s annual tune-up now is the best time of year.

We’re pleased to assist you in preparing to spend the summer indoors. If you live in Tennessee, Northern Kentucky, or Southern Alabama and need a reliable air conditioning company, give us a call now.