You likely already know that AC maintenance is important. You may be surprised to find, though, that knowing when to schedule this maintenance can be just as crucial, especially as a new homeowner. Here’s how to determine what makes the most sense for your situation.
A General Recommended Schedule for AC Maintenance
Most homeowners will want to schedule service for their ACs at least once a year. It’s often ideal to schedule your annual AC tune-up in the spring, since this gives your system a refresh right before the most demanding time of year.
This approach doesn’t necessarily work for everyone, though. If you find yourself using your AC more frequently or the weather is exceptionally warm throughout the year, you might benefit from AC maintenance twice a year or more.
Signs Your System Might Need More Attention
There are some unique circumstances that new homeowners might have that point to needing more air conditioner maintenance than usual. Perhaps the most notable are higher-than-average energy bills.
This can be hard to notice at first, especially for newer homeowners. But if you’re paying close attention to how your bills react to use, know that any unexpected spikes could be a sign of issues with your HVAC.
Inconsistent temperatures are another potential sign of something wrong with your system. Hot and cold pockets throughout your home shouldn’t be the norm. One room being significantly hotter or colder than another usually means there’s something wrong with your system or ductwork.
Ways to Tackle Air Conditioner Maintenance as a Homeowner
In between tune-ups, you can also play a role in how well your unit is maintained. Here are easy ways you can keep your system in good health and operating at peak efficiency.
Change Your Filters
Remember to switch out your filters every one to three months. Aim for closer to one month if you have a home with pets or someone with allergies.
Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
Move any leaves, branches, or debris piling up around the outside unit. Leaving this debris could lead to your system being less efficient, forcing it to work harder and wear out faster.
Check Your Thermostat Settings
Pay close attention to your thermostat. Is it hitting the proper temperatures you set it to? If you have the option, set up automatic schedules to save money on energy and relieve the pressure on your HVAC when you aren’t home.
Be Consistent
Create a maintenance schedule you can stick to. Whether this is pre-planning professional maintenance or setting a reminder on your phone to swap out filters, consistency is key to keeping your system fully optimized.
Schedule an Air Conditioner Tune-Up Today
If you don’t already have your annual AC maintenance on the books, there’s no time like the present to invest in your comfort. The team at Complete Climate Services can help you keep your system running at its best for years to come. Contact us to schedule your AC maintenance with one of our HVAC experts today!
