We may be experiencing our stereotypical rainstorms for now, but soon enough temperatures will begin to warm and we’ll need fully effective and efficiently operating air conditioning systems. Do you know what shape yours is in? If your answer is “no,” or you haven’t even thought about it recently, now is the time to schedule a maintenance tune-up.
There are a few maintenance tasks you can complete on your own. This includes changing your air filter every 1–3 months. Many people believe that the air filter is in place to protect their indoor air quality, but it’s actually there to protect the inside components of your HVAC systems from dirt and debris that can negatively affect airflow. Another maintenance task you can do on your own is ensuring that the outdoor unit is clear of debris, for the same reason.
But if you want to help your air conditioner perform at its best, and prevent repairs in the meantime, you need to schedule maintenance tune-ups once a year (or twice a year, if you use a heat pump!)
The Benefits of Routine Tune-Ups
Components of your HVAC systems are subject to natural wear and tear over time. However, maintenance will certainly help fend off sudden and costly repair issues. In addition, it will help your cooling system perform more reliably. As to when the best time to schedule maintenance? Well, now!
But more important than what time of year you schedule your AC tune-ups, is how often you schedule them. Like we mentioned above, unless you have a heat pump then you should invest in this service once a year. Skipping that yearly maintenance can lead to a number of operational problems down the line. Read on for more information on the benefits of routine maintenance.
- Your AC System Will Run More Reliably: This is, arguably, the biggest advantage of scheduling annual AC maintenance. Your cooling system won’t be as likely to suffer from any major operational problems, such as a complete breakdown, over the warmer months when you need the system the most. During the inspection portion of your maintenance appointment, our professionals will find areas where natural wear and tear on the cooling system can lead to these operational issues, and they will make the necessary adjustments to ensure this isn’t a problem.
- You’ll Have a More Efficient Cooling System: The build-up of wear and tear on your air conditioner creates more strain on its internal components, particularly the blower motor. This causes higher energy bills as the air conditioner tries to overcome the extra strain. If your AC has regular maintenance done, however, it should retain about 95% of its efficiency rating throughout its entire service life.
- Your System Will Last Longer: Speaking of service life, with regular attentive care, and subsequent efficient operation, your air conditioner should last between 10–15 years (maybe even longer depending on the type of air conditioner and the manufacturer). This alone can make maintenance worth it, although we also must mention that without maintenance, your manufacturer warranty could be voided.
Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning is your trusted resource for Chicagoland AC services. When you’re shopping Chicago AC maintenance plans, you needn’t look any further than our team. Contact us today!