Examples of DIY AC maintenance include changing filters, cleaning vents, and clearing the space around the outdoor unit, but these are not enough to keep the system in great shape. Licensed technicians have the training and experience to provide a thorough tune-up every year. They know what issues to look for and can fix minor problems before they get worse. Therefore, scheduling regular AC maintenance with an HVAC company like Air Stars can:
Avoid Repairs
The preventative aspect of maintenance reduces the risk of an AC breakdown. Many HVAC professionals say most big repairs are avoidable. Since AC repairs can be expensive, reducing the need for one just once or twice in the unit’s life can help you meet a return on investment.
Improve AC Performance
A variety of issues can fester if you avoid AC maintenance. The unit may provide less cooling or the level of cooling from room to room can differ. A buildup of dust and debris and wear and tear can take a toll on the system. By addressing these issues, your air conditioner will run more reliably and you won’t deal with some rooms being too chilly and others too warm.
Boost Energy Efficiency
Filter changes and other DIY cleaning tasks can help improve efficiency. However, issues such as worn-out fan motors, faulty wiring, and low refrigerant levels can reduce energy efficiency too. Only a skilled technician can correct these. Attempting to do so yourself can cause more damage, put you at risk of injury, and void the warranty. Professional AC maintenance saves you many hassles and can reduce energy consumption while improving AC performance.
Improve Indoor Air Quality
You probably don’t have the tools or expertise to reach parts of your AC system contaminated by dust, dirt, pet dander, pollen, and other pollutants. If your AC is poorly maintained, it can release harmful contaminants into the air. This is one good reason to schedule annual tune-ups. They allow a technician to remove debris and make any adjustments needed to maintain good indoor air quality.
Increase the System’s Lifespan
Aside from preventing repairs, professional AC maintenance includes services that can add years to the life of the system. Buying a new air conditioner costs more than any tune-up. While regular maintenance won’t enable your AC to last forever, it does reduce wear and tear. It can make a difference between the unit lasting seven or eight years or 12 to as many as 15 years.
Keep Your Warranty Valid
Air conditioner maintenance can protect your warranty. Most manufacturers cover essential components, but only if the system is tuned every year. Skipping just one year of maintenance can void the warranty, costing you thousands of dollars if a lack of care leads to, for example, water damage, a broken evaporator coil, or a burnt-out compressor.
Other Reasons DIY AC Maintenance Isn’t Enough
The minor tasks you complete during the year are important but not enough because a trained technician:
- Has access to and experience with the correct parts and equipment.
- Can address an issue with a high-voltage electrical component.
- Uses a variety of specialty tools the average homeowner doesn’t have.
- Knows how to avoid safety hazards such as exposure to refrigerant.
- Is skilled in many areas, so can do the job quickly.
- Knows how to service your AC and anticipate issues, avoiding costly damage and mistakes.
An HVAC technician’s training is far more resourceful than any online instructional video. A professional also follows a thorough checklist of components to inspect and issues to look for. Therefore, they can find a worn motor bearing or decrease in refrigerant level before major damage occurs. In that regard, DIY AC maintenance is not enough to prevent expensive repairs or an early system replacement.
Call Air Stars to Schedule Annual AC Maintenance
Air Stars provides routine HVAC maintenance that can save you time, stress, and money. A poorly maintained unit can reduce your comfort or completely fail, which is a major disruption. An AC tune-up includes an inspection plus any necessary adjustments or minor repairs that protect your investment. Join our Star Treatment Maintenance Plan to receive these important services and discounts on repair services. To learn more, call (503) 304-1320 today.
