How Routine Air Conditioning Service Can Reduce AC Repair Costs

Air conditioning is a must for countless homes during the sweltering summer months in Cleveland. However, the operating costs associated with running an AC are substantial. Discover how scheduled air conditioning service can reduce AC repair costs, and take up energy-saving habits to help your unit run more efficiently. With these tips, you’ll enjoy a comfortable home this summer without breaking the bank.

What Routine AC Service Involves

Air conditioning maintenance is a low-cost, predictable once-a-year charge that pays you back by shrinking repair costs and extending your unit’s life span. Here are some significant maintenance steps that help avoid air conditioner breakdowns:

Replace the air filter: A dirty filter obstructs airflow and makes your air conditioner to work harder, utilizing more energy and increasing the risk of overheating. Changing your air conditioner's dirty air filter with a clean one as part of your yearly maintenance service call, and every 30 to 90 days throughout the year, boosts ideal airflow and efficiency.
Clean the evaporator coil: The interior evaporator coil collects dirt and dust as time goes by, lowering its ability to absorb heat. This can cause the refrigerant inside of the coil to freeze, stopping your air conditioner from running effectively. Cleaning the coil removes this insulating layer and will help the refrigerant to operate effectively.
Clean the condenser coil: The exterior condenser coil releases heat soaked up by the refrigerant. If it’s caked in cobwebs, grass clippings and other debris, the heat transfer process is diminished. Cleaning the condenser coil boosts the unit’s function substantially, reducing wear and tear on your air conditioner that could lead to breakdowns.
Straighten the coils’ fins: The aluminum fins on the evaporator and condenser coils can become bent, restricting airflow and decreasing performance. Fixing the fins with a fin comb rearranges51 them to their original position to restore proper airflow.
Lubricate moving parts: Friction in the motor and other moving components generates heat and causes unnecessary wear and tear. Consistent lubrication reduces friction, ensuring smooth operation and cutting down on the need for repairs.
Double check refrigerant levels: A low refrigerant charge is another answer for why your AC can freeze up, resulting in longer run times, comfort problems and unnecessary AC repairs. An HVAC specialist uses specific tools to assess and adjust refrigerant levels as needed to ensure proper operation and prevent a mid-season breakdown.

Other Ways to Reduce AC Repair Costs

Yearly maintenance is an important factor in getting rid of avoidable AC repair expenditures, but here are some other recommendations to help your air conditioning unit operate dependably all summer long:

Turn the temperature up: Elevating the thermostat setting curbs the wear and tear on your AC. Pick a comfortable temperature and avoid lowering the temperature.
Invest in a programmable thermostat: When set correctly, a programmable thermostat helps control your home’s temperature more efficiently, reducing the pressure on your AC unit. An effective technique is to schedule setback periods of 7 to 10 degrees while you’re away or sleeping to conserve on energy costs and further reduce wear and tear.
Seal air leaks: Gaps and cracks near windows and doors permit warm, humid air into your home. Try using caulk and weatherstripping to avoid overloading your air conditioning equipment.
Install more insulation: A proper attic insulation level encourages consistent indoor temperatures and lessens your AC’s workload. If you can observe the attic floor or joists poking through the existing insulation, add more.
Stop solar heat gain: The sun’s heat warms your home, increasing the demand on your AC system. Putting in window coverings and drawing the blinds or shades during the hot afternoon blocks solar heat gain and lowers the risk of a mid-season breakdown.
Use ceiling fans: The wind chill effect provided by ceiling fans makes your room feel about 4 degrees cooler, allowing you to raise the thermostat setting without surrendering comfort. Remember to switch the fan off when you leave the room, as fans cool people, not spaces.
Use a dehumidifier: For those who reside in a humid part of the country, elevated humidity levels can make your home feel cool but clammy, causing you to turn down the temperature. A whole-house dehumidifier eliminates excessive moisture, giving your AC a much-needed break.
Clear out your vents123: Closed or blocked air vents throw off the balance of return and supply air, which might cause your air conditioner to break down. To avoid this, leave at least 80 percent of your registers open, and make sure no furniture, curtains or rugs inadvertently block airflow. Boost circulation further by making sure doors between rooms are open as much as possible.
Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioner: If your AC unit is more than 10 years old, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient system. In addition to enhanced efficiency, a new system is also much less likely to break down or experience maintenance issues than an older unit, reducing your repair costs in the long run.

Schedule AC Service in Cleveland

By investing in scheduled air conditioning maintenance and implementing other recommended home-cooling habits, you’ll enjoy a comfortable interior with reduced repair costs this summer. Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning offers top-notch AC tune-ups to boost efficiency and lengthen your air conditioner’s life span. We can also upgrade your AC unit if yours is starting to have problems.