Summer is around the corner, meaning that now is the time to ensure your air conditioner is working as it should. Once the scorching heat hits, you will want to know that your air conditioner is operating perfectly to keep your home comfortable – and your energy bills reasonable.
Chill this summer and learn why you need to schedule your AC tune-up now from the pros at Scottsdale Air.
What Is an AC Tune-Up?
Benefits of an AC Tune-Up
Optimal Performance
The primary reason to schedule an air conditioning tune-up is to ensure optimal performance. Over time, air conditioning units accumulate dust, dirt, and debris, which can hinder their efficiency. A thorough tune-up involves cleaning the condenser coils, evaporator coils, and other components of the system. This cleaning process allows the air conditioning to operate at its maximum capacity, providing better cooling performance and maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your home.
Extended Lifespan
Just like any other mechanical system, regular maintenance significantly contributes to the longevity of your air conditioning unit. When you neglect the necessary tune-ups, the wear and tear on the various components increase, leading to a higher likelihood of breakdowns and malfunctions. Investing in a professional air conditioner tune-up now can extend the lifespan of your unit, saving you money in the long run by delaying the need for expensive repairs or premature replacements.
Energy Efficiency
An efficiently running air conditioning unit is not only good for your comfort but also for your wallet. When your system is well-maintained, it requires less energy to cool your home. On the other hand, a neglected air conditioning unit has to work harder, consuming more energy and consequently increasing your utility bills. Scheduling a tune-up ensures that your air conditioner operates at peak efficiency, helping you save on energy costs and reducing your carbon footprint.
Preventing Expensive Repairs
Imagine the frustration of your air conditioner breaking down on the hottest day of summer. Emergency repairs can be not only inconvenient but also costly. Regular tune-ups can catch potential issues before they escalate into major problems. HVAC professionals can identify and address minor concerns during a tune-up, preventing them from turning into major malfunctions that may require expensive repairs. Proactive maintenance is an investment in the longevity of your air conditioning system and a safeguard against unexpected repair bills.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Beyond cooling, your air conditioner plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality. During a tune-up, the air filters are cleaned or replaced, ensuring that the system effectively filters out dust, allergens, and other pollutants. This is especially important for individuals with respiratory issues or allergies. A well-maintained air conditioning system not only keeps you cool but also promotes a healthier indoor environment.
Consistent Comfort
One of the main purposes of an air conditioning system is to provide consistent comfort throughout your home. However, when the system is not properly tuned, you may experience uneven cooling, with some rooms being too warm while others are too cold. A professional air conditioning tune-up includes checking and adjusting the system to ensure consistent airflow and temperature distribution, eliminating hot spots and creating a comfortable environment in every corner of your home.
Warranty Requirements
Many air conditioning manufacturers include maintenance requirements in their warranties. Neglecting regular tune-ups may void your warranty, leaving you responsible for the full cost of any repairs or replacements. To protect your investment and ensure that you can take advantage of the warranty coverage, it’s essential to adhere to the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines. Scheduling a tune-up now not only keeps your air conditioning in top shape but also preserves your warranty coverage for potential future issues.
Environmental Awareness
There’s increasing pressure to move toward more sustainable and eco-friendly appliances and practices. Energy efficiency is a key part of that, and having an inadequately maintained air conditioner will consume more energy and produce more greenhouse gas emissions. By scheduling a tune-up, you are taking a proactive step towards reducing your carbon footprint. A well-maintained air conditioning unit operates more efficiently, using less energy and lowering its overall environmental impact.
DIY AC Tune-Up
Change the Air Filter
The air filters are an essential component of your air conditioning and one of the simplest tasks to DIY. They prevent dirt and dust from entering your air conditioning, which not only protects the system but keeps pollutants from being recirculated in your home. Make an air filter inspection a regular part of your household routine.
Examine the Drain Line
Cleaning and inspecting the drain (condensate) line is another simple preventative maintenance step you can take to protect your air conditioning unit. The drain line is the white pipe that runs on the side of your air conditioning unit and drains condensation. if your drain line is blocked, your air conditioning could leak water. As you look over the drain line, look for cracks or holes that could cause your air conditioner to leak. If you notice damage, make sure to have it repaired as soon as possible.
Clear Debris
The outdoor unit on your air conditioning needs adequate air flow. Often, plants that grow around the unit can restrict air flow and cause problems, as well as branches or leaves. Make sure you clean the area around your outdoor unit to allow the free flow of air.
What Does an AC Tune-Up Include from a Professional HVAC Technician?
While there’s a lot you can do on your own, it’s best to have a professional AC tune-up from a licensed HVAC technician. These professionals have the knowledge and expertise to keep your system running its best. Here’s what you can expect from a professional HVAC technician:
- Thermostat check:If your thermostat isn’t working properly, it could cause problems with your air conditioning. Your HVAC pro will test, inspect, and adjust any internal wiring to make sure everything is working properly.
- Evaluating the evaporator coil:During an air conditioner tune-up, an HVAC professional will remove the front panel from the air conditioner to check the evaporator coil. This is what absorbs heat from your home, so it’s important to ensure that it’s not dirty, frozen, or leaking.
- Evaluating the drain pan:Your HVAC professional will clean the drain pan during your tune-up and inspect it for damage. This is important for keeping the rest of your system functioning properly, as the drain pan collects excess moisture.
- Blower motor inspection:The blower motor is responsible for pulling air from inside your home and pushing it over the evaporator coil. During a maintenance check, your technician will evaluate the condition of your blower motor to ensure it’s working properly.
- Evaluating air flow:The efficiency of your air conditioner is determined by proper airflow in part. During your tune-up, the technician will assess your ductwork and vents to make sure they’re open and working properly.
- Condensate inspection:Your technician will examine the drain line piping, drain, and condensate pumps for proper operation and clean, repair, or replace them as needed.
- Testing efficiency:Air conditioning condensers are among the most essential components of an air conditioning system. Your technician will test the condenser for internal damage with specialized tools and correct any problems. This also includes the electrical components.
- Evaluating the condenser unit:Your technician will inspect the condition of the air conditioning condenser to determine if the unit is level and in good condition.
- Cleaning the outdoor condenser:During a tune-up, your technician will remove the condenser blower fan and clean the inside of the condenser unit to remove dirt and debris.
- Testing refrigerant charge:Your technician will test the air conditioning refrigerant charge to ensure it’s at the right level. If your air conditioning is leaking refrigerant, it can impact its cooling performance and efficiency.
How Often Should I Have an AC Tune-Up?
Routine cooling maintenance should be performed at least once a year, right before the season starts. This helps to prevent any air conditioning repairs or breakdowns during the summer season. For just a few hours of time – and a fraction of the cost of an air conditioning repair – you can enjoy a long summer of cooling.
Get Your AC Ready for Summer
Scheduling an air conditioning tune-up before the summer heat reaches its peak can help you prevent major repairs and breakdowns, not to mention an uncomfortable home while you wait for the problem to be fixed.
If you need air conditioning repairs or maintenance, contact the pros at Scottsdale Air to schedule your appointment!
