According to a survey by Consumer Affairs, about 23% of respondents needed to repair their air conditioner in 2019. However, with regular upkeep, you can help to avoid needing AC repair.
Your HVAC system is a year-round necessity. It works to keep you warm in the winter and cool throughout the summer. However, because it often sees continuous use, your air conditioner is also put under a lot of stress. Without upkeep, it can end up breaking down.
Luckily, there are things you can do to help prevent your HVAC system from needing repairs. By doing routine maintenance, you can often catch problems before they even occur.
Here are several tips on how you can avoid air conditioning repair.
Have Annual Inspections Done
By having a trained professional perform a yearly inspection of your HVAC system, you can often catch and fix small problems before they blow up into huge issues.
When you book a technician to do a check-up, they’ll do an on-site visit to examine the HVAC system and make sure it’s operating efficiently. You can locate a technician near you by searching for air conditioning services.
An inspection and preventative maintenance on your HVAC system will often include any of the following:
- Checking the freon level
- Checking that the thermostat is functioning as intended
- Cleaning and checking the condenser
- Checking electrical and safeties
By getting preventative maintenance, you can help save money in energy costs and even extend the life of your HVAC system.
Clean the Drain Lines
There’s nothing worse than going down into the basement of your home and discovering that it’s flooded. Though an AC repair service can clean this for you if you book them for yearly maintenance, you can also do this yourself.
Over time, dirt and dust can accumulate within the drain line of your air conditioner. Once it becomes clogged, moisture is no longer able to vent outside of your home. Instead, it’ll be left to back up and overflow around your AC unit.
Change the Filter On a Regular Basis
Most professionals recommend that you change your home air filter every 60-90 days. Depending on several factors, such as pets or allergies, you might need to change the filter even more often.
When your filter is dirty or clogged, then greater strain is placed on your HVAC system. Airflow is blocked and can cause the system to freeze. A dirty air filter is one of the most common reasons behind needing AC replacement.
Clear Debris Away from the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit of your air conditioner is exposed to the elements on a continuous basis. Dirt, debris, vegetation, and dead leaves can all cover the outdoor unit. When this happens, the exhaust air isn’t able to circulate as needed.
If you notice that your outdoor unit is looking a bit overgrown by vegetation, trim it back. If it looks dirty, use a hose to wash away the buildup.
The Best AC Repair Company in Northwest Florida
When you need AC repair and you’re melting from the sweltering heat of a Florida summer, Murphy’s Home Services has you covered. We are a state-certified and locally owned and operated company.
If you live in Northwest Florida, such as Miramar Beach or Destin, we can help ensure your AC doesn’t break down and your family stays comfortable. Contact us today to make an appointment.
