Air conditioning repair in Mansfield, TX, can be expensive and inconvenient. You can do a few simple things to help reduce the number of repairs you need. Continue reading to discover how to efficiently keep your air conditioner running all summer.
What Is AC Maintenance, and How Does It Prevent Repairs?
Before getting into the nitty-gritty of how to reduce repairs, here’s the answer to the first question: what is AC maintenance? An AC service is a series of tune-ups and check-ups that help your system run more efficiently and prevent minor problems from turning into big (expensive) ones.
It’s like going to the doctor for a physical. You wouldn’t skip your yearly check-up, right? The same principle applies to your AC unit.
Think of it this way—would you rather spend a few hours (and dollars) on maintenance every year or days (and hundreds of dollars) on repairs?
The answer is obvious, but many homeowners wait until they have a problem before calling for help. By then, it’s often too late, and the damage has been done.
The best way to reduce the need for a reoccurring air conditioning repair service is to keep up with regular maintenance. Here are a few tips on how to do that:
Schedule an AC Tune-up at the Beginning of Spring and Fall
It’s important to schedule an AC tune-up at the beginning of spring and fall to get your system ready for the changing seasons. During a tune-up, your technician will thoroughly clean your unit, inspect all the parts, and make any necessary adjustments.
This simple service can help prevent many common problems, like dirty coils and loose parts. It’s also an opportunity to catch any potential issues early on before they do severe damage, resulting in an expensive AC repair bill.
Change Your Air Filter Regularly
One of the most important things you can do to reduce AC repairs is regularly changing your air filter. A clogged or dirty air filter can cause many problems, like decreased airflow, frozen coils, and even complete system failure.
Every month or three, depending on the sort of filter you have and the circumstances in your house, is typical. For example, if you have pets or someone in your home who suffers from allergies, you may need to change your filter more often. Your air conditioning repair service can help you with maintenance needs, such as how often to change your filter.
Keep Your Vents Clear
Your vents play a vital role in the efficiency of your AC unit, so it’s essential to keep them clear and unobstructed. If furniture or other objects block your vents, it can cause several problems, like decreased airflow and increased energy bills. Move anything blocking your ducts and keep an eye out for any future obstructions.
Inspect Your Unit for Leaks
Once a month, investigate your AC unit for leaks. A small drip might not seem like a big deal, but even a tiny leak can cause significant damage to your unit if left unchecked.
Check the area around your unit for any puddles of water or moisture and look for any water stains on the ceiling or walls. If you see any leaks, it’s essential to call a technician for air conditioning repair in Mansfield, TX.
Clean Up Debris Around Your Unit
Your AC unit needs space to function correctly, so it’s essential to keep the area around it clean and free of debris. Every few months, look at the area around your unit and clear away any leaves, dirt, or other objects that might block it. Also, look for any dirt or grime build-up on the unit itself and clean it off with a hose.
Trim Trees and Bushes Near Your Unit
Trees and bushes can cause two problems for your AC unit: they can block the airflow and drop leaves and other debris onto your unit. If you have any trees or bushes near your AC unit, it’s essential to trim them back to avert problems. Contact a professional tree service to prevent accidentally hitting the AC system trimming branches from large trees. This could turn into an expensive AC replacement rather than an air conditioning repair.
Check Your Thermostat
Your thermostat plays a crucial role in the efficiency of your AC unit, so it’s essential to make sure it’s working correctly. Check the batteries once a year and dust off the unit itself every few months. If your thermostat is ten years old or more, it might be time to upgrade.
Talk to your air conditioning repair service about installing a new, more efficient model. A programmable thermostat can help you save even more money on your energy bills. Consider a smart thermostat for the ultimate convenience and savings.
Keep Your Drains Clear
Your AC unit has drains that help remove water as it’s created. If these drains get blocked, it can cause water to back up and flood your unit. Speak with your air conditioning repair provider about how to clear these drains and what maintenance you should do.
Enroll in a Maintenance Plan
One of the best ways to reduce an annual air conditioning repair is to enroll in a maintenance plan. Your AC unit will last longer and run more efficiently with regular check-ups. Many companies offer maintenance plans that include two visits per year: one in the spring and one in the fall for residents in Mansfield.
When Is It Time to Replace Your AC System?
If you’re experiencing an air conditioning repair more than once yearly, and you’ve tried all the tips in this article, then it might be time for a replacement. Air conditioners typically last around 10-15 years. So, if your unit is around this age and you’re still having trouble, it might be time to shop for a new one.
Air conditioners are a vital part of life in Texas, so it’s crucial to do everything you can to keep yours running smoothly. If you’re looking for ways to reduce how often you need air conditioner repair in Mansfield, TX, these tips can help. Contact Minuteman Heating & Air today for more information or help with AC repairs.