The Importance of Air Conditioning Maintenance

If you own a central air conditioning unit, it is important to perform regular maintenance on it. This is something many homeowners neglect to do, often resulting in high repair bills. Many people see repairs as useless or a waste of money. In fact, the complete opposite is true; if you perform regular maintenance, you might be able to save money on future repair bills.

Higher Utility Bills

When your air conditioner does not run efficiently, you will have much higher utility bills than is necessary. The harder your unit has to work, the harder it is on the air conditioner and on your utility bills. If you start to notice your utility bills are higher than normal, this could be a sign your AC needs maintenance or repair.

Filters

The air filter is often a major culprit in an inefficient air conditioner. If you do not regularly change your filter, it has to work harder to get through the dirt and debris that has collected on the filter. Most filters need to be replaced every one or two months unless you purchase a higher quality filter or one that filters out special allergens. If this is the case, you should follow the directions of the manufacturer to ensure your unit runs properly.

Clear the Area Outdoors

Periodically check the area around your air conditioning unit. Any large weeds or collection of leaves can obstruct the air flow coming from your AC unit. Take extra care to determine no leaves or weeds are stuck in the coil because this is what causes the air to run inefficiently. Once you are sure the area is clear, you can also clean the air outlet on the front of the unit to ensure air flows freely.

Check for Rust

An air conditioning unit that is full of rust will not work as efficiently as it should either. Sometimes you can take care of the rust on your own with a steel paint. If the rust spots are large or you feel the rust is affecting how your unit runs, it is best to call for professional service to ensure your unit is still safe to use.

Regular maintenance on your air conditioning unit is important to its effectiveness and longevity. It only takes a short amount of time to change the filter, inspect the unit, both inside and outside, and clear away any debris. These simple actions could save you hundreds of dollars in the long run.