As the days get longer and the weather nicer, many of us are looking forward to the coming summer months. However, is your AC ready? With increased temperatures, we start using our air conditioners more often. In the height of summer, most people use their AC every single day. If it's not up to the task, you may experience a loss of efficiency, more repair issues, and breakdowns.
Why You Should Schedule AC Maintenance in the Spring
The key to keeping your AC system running smoothly all year long is maintenance. Spring is an ideal time to schedule an appointment with one of our professionals at Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. After sitting unused all winter, your system needs a thorough inspection and cleaning to ensure that it will run reliably when you need it to. By scheduling in the spring, you have the chance to get your system serviced, and you have the time to take care of any repair issues before you need your AC.
One of the greatest benefits of scheduling your AC maintenance in the spring is that you do not have to wait around for an appointment. When the first heatwave hits, repair calls skyrocket, and it can be very difficult to get an appointment with an AC repair technician. It's not uncommon for people to have to wait days or weeks before finding a company with availability. By scheduling in the spring when demand is less, you can schedule your maintenance at a convenient time and with a company you trust.
To learn more about the benefits of springtime AC maintenance, review our blog here.
What Happens During A Maintenance Visit
Our professional AC expert will inspect your entire system during your service appointment and test it to ensure it operates at peak efficiency. While servicing your system, we will replace air filters, check refrigerant levels, and completely clean your unit and its components. We also keep an eye out for broken or worn-out parts. If a repair issue is discovered, we will provide you with all your repair options and help you come up with a repair plan that suits your needs and your budget.
Your maintenance visit is also a great time to ask any questions you have about your cooling system. Our AC maintenance specialists are passionate about what they do and love teaching customers how to get the most out of their air conditioning. From tips and tricks to improve efficiency to going over how various functions work, we have the answers you are looking for.
Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Help
In addition to scheduling annual AC maintenance each spring, you should also familiarize yourself with the symptoms of a struggling cooling system. While our technicians do everything they can to get your system ready for summer, parts can still wear out or break. Knowing the signs that your system is having an issue is the first step in getting the problem resolved quickly and before it causes a full-system breakdown.
If you notice any of the following signs, you should schedule an inspection with a professional:
- Your AC is blowing hot air
- There are strange sounds or smells coming from your system
- Your AC unit shakes or rattles while operating
- Your system is short cycling – turning on and off repeatedly
- There are hot and cold spots in your home
- There is an increase in humidity in your home
- Your thermostat is malfunctioning
- Your AC must run continuously to maintain temperature
Another sign that your AC isn't running efficiently is if your utility bill has increased without explanation. While there will be an increase as you start using your system more frequently, if this increase seems excessive, it may be a sign that your AC is having issues.
Why AC Efficiency Matters
Not only does the efficiency of your AC affect the comfort levels in your home, but it also affects your wallet. A well-maintained, efficient air conditioning system requires less energy to run. As it loses efficiency, it requires more energy and will likely have to run longer and more often. Because your AC is one of the largest consumers of electricity in your home, this can have a significant impact on your utility bill.
Furthermore, if your system isn't running efficiently, parts will likely wear out sooner, and your system's lifespan may be decreased. This results in needing to replace your AC sooner than you ordinarily would. AC replacements are a significant investment, and you want to make sure that you do not replace your cooling system prematurely.
If you are concerned about the efficiency of your AC, or if you are not sure when your system was last serviced, reach out to Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to schedule an appointment. Our maintenance experts can help you prep your AC for summer and ensure that it runs as efficiently as possible.