Summer is in full swing, and that means the temperatures are rising. Like most people, you’re probably using your air conditioner to keep cool. It’s essential to ensure that your AC is in good shape to stay comfortable all summer long. That’s why it’s essential to know how often you should have maintenance done on your AC unit.
Many experts recommend having AC maintenance done at least once a year. However, depending on how often you use your unit, you may need to have it done more frequently. Here are several times you should consider having maintenance done on your AC.
When Air Conditioning System is Blowing Warm Air
If your AC unit is blowing warm air, it likely means there’s a problem with your unit or the ductwork. To determine whether you have a problem with your AC unit or your ductwork, you should call an HVAC technician to come out and look at it.
You can also check to see if there’s too much moisture in the air, indicating a problem with the ductwork and not necessarily with the AC unit itself. In this case, you may want to make a few maintenance improvements to your ductwork.
Before the First Use of the Season
If you haven’t used your air conditioning unit in several months, it’s probably a good idea to have an HVAC technician come and give your AC unit a once over before the first use of the season. This way, they can ensure that everything is in working order and that it will be able to provide you with cool air when you need it most.
Many HVAC professionals offer discounts on service calls made during the off-season, so you may be able to take care of all your maintenance needs at once and stretch your budget a bit. Also, don’t forget to do preventative maintenance while planning your annual AC maintenance plan.
During the Winter Months
While you may not be using your air conditioner during the winter months, it’s still a good idea to have maintenance done on it. This is because many parts of the country experience extreme weather conditions during the winter, which can put a lot of strain on your AC unit.
By having maintenance done during the winter months, you can ensure that your AC unit is in good shape and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
A study conducted by the U.S. Department of Energy showed that AC units that were properly maintained during the winter months were less likely to break down during the summer months.
After a Big Storm
If you live in an area prone to severe weather, it’s essential to have your AC unit checked after a big storm. This is because high winds and debris can cause damage to your AC unit, leading to costly repairs. Also, if your AC unit is located in an area prone to flooding, it’s essential to have it checked for water damage. Many homeowners insurance policies will cover the cost of AC repairs caused by severe weather, but it’s important to check with your insurance company to be sure.
According to Lee HVAC, a leading AC maintenance and repairs provider, many AC units damaged by severe weather can be repaired and will be as good as new.
Strange Odors When AC Turned On
If you notice any strange odors coming from your AC unit when you turn it on, it’s important to have it checked out by an HVAC technician. These odors could signify a serious problem, such as mold or mildew growth. In some cases, these odors can also be a sign of Freon leaks, which can be very dangerous.
According to the EPA, Freon is a harmful gas that can cause serious health problems if inhaled. If you notice any strange odors coming from your AC unit, it’s essential to call an HVAC technician immediately to check it out.
High Electric Bill
If you’ve noticed a sudden increase in your electric bill, it could be due to your AC unit. Many homeowners don’t realize that their AC units use a lot of energy, which can cause their electric bills to spike.
Always check your AC unit’s energy usage rating before assuming that it’s the cause of your high electric bill. If you find that your AC unit is using more energy than usual, it’s essential to have it checked out by an HVAC technician. They may be able to suggest some energy-saving tips that can help lower your electric bill.
These are just a few signs that it’s time to do maintenance on your AC unit. Always remember that it’s better to be safe than sorry about your AC unit. If you’re ever unsure of whether or not you should have maintenance done, it’s always best to consult with an HVAC professional.
