Connecticut summers can arrive quickly, and the last thing any homeowner wants is for their air conditioner to malfunction when they need it most. It’s a terrible time to discover that regular maintenance is essential to an efficient, reliable source of cool air.
Scheduling a professional AC tune-up each spring is a practical investment that saves money, extends the life of your equipment, and keeps your home comfortable when the temperatures go up.
The Hidden Costs of Skipping AC Maintenance
The top causes of heating and cooling system failure are dirt and neglect. The U.S. Department of Energy says that clogged, dirty HVAC filters reduce airflow and, with it, system efficiency. When airflow to an AC unit is restricted, air can bypass the filter and deposit dirt directly into the evaporator coil, impairing the coil’s heat-absorbing capacity. This results in your system running longer and costing more to operate. An air conditioner that isn’t maintained loses 5% of its efficiency each year and uses more energy.
Connecticut homeowners who are already paying some of the highest utility bills in the country will see reduced AC efficiency in the form of higher electricity costs.
An annual tune-up can reverse the damage. Blower components need periodic cleaning and adjusting or they can cause airflow problems that result in up to 15% efficiency loss.
Stop Small Problems From Becoming Big Emergencies
It’s difficult to catch problems with your own system. A drain line clog or refrigerant leak can cause a gradual loss of function. Dirty condenser coils can cause the unit to work harder to blow cool air, shortening its life. If the capacitor fails, it’s unlikely the AC will turn on at all.
About half of all problems with AC systems can be prevented by annual maintenance. During a tune-up, a technician inspects the unit thoroughly, including:
- Checking for duct leaks in central systems
- Verifying the electric control sequence
- Inspecting electric terminals
- Cleaning and tightening connections
- Checking the accuracy of the thermostat
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Inspecting and cleaning condenser coils
In addition, a trained technician can evaluate your home’s system to determine if it’s the right size for your home. AC units that are over- or under-sized will cycle inefficiently, reducing its lifespan.
Don’t Void Your System Warranty
Skipping annual service may void the manufacturer’s warranty. Many AC manufacturers won’t supply replacement parts unless an AC unit has been maintained regularly by an HVAC professional. Several manufacturers require evidence of professional maintenance before providing product support.
Don’t Put Off a Maintenance Visit
Like seeing a dentist or eye doctor, your regular AC maintenance should be on your calendar. Getting it done in March or April is best because it gives the technician time to identify and correct any issues they find. Waiting until summer runs into every maintenance company’s busy time of year. This can result in long waits for parts and technicians.
Poor or nonexistent maintenance can reduce an AC system’s lifespan by up to 50%. A new air conditioner can cost as much as $7,500. Annual maintenance costs $75-$200. Getting a system tune-up can cut energy costs by 10-15% and add years to its functional life.
Incentives for Connecticut Homeowners
Financial incentives through EnergizeCT.com make system replacement easier. Rebates of $200 per qualifying central air unit are available. Additional cash incentives are available to those switching to a heat pump system that heats and cools.
Stay Cool Through Regular Maintenance
An efficient, low-cost AC unit that’s under warranty provides peace of mind that it will work when it’s needed. Unified Home Solutions can keep your system operating efficiently and smoothly, ensuring a more comfortable summer. Call for a consultation today.