Connecticut summers may be shorter than those in the Sun Belt states, but they can be punishing just the same. Humid July heat waves push air conditioning systems hard, and a unit that hasn’t been used since last September may not be up to the challenge.
Professional HVAC technicians recommend scheduling a professional tune-up every spring, before the first heat wave. That simple step can make a big difference in the seasonal efficiency and the lifespan of the system as a whole.
How Annual MaintenancePays Off
An air conditioner degrades without care. Without regular service, an air conditioner loses about five percent of its efficiency every year. Skipping routine maintenance can cut a system’s lifespan in half.
Replacing a central air system can cost up to $7,500, so it’s difficult to rationalize skipping a $75 to $200 annual service visit, which provides inexpensive insurance.
A well-maintained system is energy efficient, using 15 percent less electricity than neglected systems. In Connecticut, where residential electricity rates are among the highest in the country, a system’s efficiency is clear on the homeowner’s power bill.
Warranty considerations are also worth mentioning. Manufacturers often require proof of annual professional maintenance to keep equipment warranties valid. If a compressor fails and the owner can’t produce service records, they could be stuck paying for a repair the warranty should have covered.
Timing matters, too: it’s best to schedule tune-ups of cooling systems for spring, before contractors are busy installing systems during the summer. Waiting until the 90-degree temperatures arrive may result in several hot days waiting for a repair.
What a Professional Tune-Up Includes
A professional tune-up requires special attention to the components that a technician knows will be stressed by summer’s heat and humidity. This one- to two-hour visit involves the following:
- Thermostat check and calibration. The technician will verify that your thermostat reads accurately and that settings keep you comfortable when home as well as save money when you’re away.
- Electrical inspection. Connections are tightened and voltage and current on motors are measured. Faulty electrical connections can cause unsafe operation and shorten the life of major components.
- Refrigerant level check. Overcharged and undercharged systems run inefficiently, and low refrigerant often signals a leak that needs professional repair.
- Coil cleaning. Dirt on the evaporator and condenser coils forces the compressor to work harder. Clean coils transfer heat efficiently and reduce strain on the system.
- Condensate drain flush. Air conditioners pull humidity out of Connecticut’s famously muggy summer air, and that water exits through a drain line. A clogged line can back up and cause water damage or mold growth.
- Blower and airflow adjustment. Airflow issues can reduce system efficiency by as much as 15 percent.
- Lubrication of moving parts. Friction in unlubricated motors increases electricity use and wear on motors, fans, and other moving parts.
What Connecticut Homeowners Can Do Themselves
Between professional visits, the most important homeowner task is simple: check your air filter monthly and replace it when dirty. A clogged air filter chokes airflow and can even damage the compressor over time. Also, keeping the outdoor condenser free of leaves, grass clippings, and shrubbery is important.
Be alert for warning signs, too. Weak airflow, warm air coming from the vents, unusual noises, musty odors, or a sudden spike in the electric bill point to a system that needs attention between tune-ups.
A Big Payoff From a Small Investment
One of the least expensive items on a homeowner’s annual to-do list is an annual AC tune-up, and it provides a high return on your investment. Call Unified Home Solutions for a tune-up and system consultation now, before it becomes a critical need.