AC Maintenance Schedule: How Often to Service Your Unit

Figuring out a proper AC maintenance schedule isn’t always straightforward, as it depends on many aspects.

Usually, how often you should maintain your AC depends on how old your system is, how hard it works, and the environment it runs in.

Notably, while most experts recommend having a professional check your AC at least once a year, you may need to have it done more frequently. Therefore, in this post, we will discuss the most common AC maintenance schedules.

​The Once-a-Year AC Maintenance Schedule

​For most homes, a yearly air conditioner checkup does the trick, especially if you use it for only a few hours. Technicians can mainly get your unit ready before the hot summer days hit.

During this annual standard visit, they’ll check refrigerant, look for leaks, test airflow, inspect the electrical system, clean the coils, calibrate the thermostat, and lubricate moving parts. Mainly, this kind of checkup helps catch small problems before they become big, expensive ones.​

Twice a Year AC Maintenance Schedule

While an AC maintenance schedule once a year is sufficient, in some circumstances, air conditioners require more than a year between maintenance.

Usually, if you rely heavily on your system or live in a dusty place, it’s smart to get two professional visits a year. In such circumstances, debris and dust can accumulate, significantly reducing your system’s efficiency.

Notably, if your unit is over 10 years old, it’s at a higher risk of breakdowns, so more frequent checkups are a good idea.​

What You Should Do Between Professional Visits​

While professional AC maintenance is necessary once or twice a year, depending on your case, that’s not all your unit needs. Mainly, you can’t rely on a professional technician who only visits during scheduled maintenance time.

Usually, there are maintenance activities you need to do more often and on your own. For instance, you need to check your filter at least once a month since a clogged filter blocks airflow, wastes energy, and can even freeze up your evaporator coil. Importantly, you need to clean the filters at least once a month and replace the damper during the main AC maintenance, which is every 3 to 6 months.

Importantly, keep at least 2 feet of space clear around the unit on the outside, free of bushes, grass, or anything that could crowd the condenser. Also, switch off the power and gently spray the fins with a hose to clear away dust. Inside, make sure nothing’s blocking the vents. Ensure there is no furniture, no curtains, as the air needs to flow freely for the system to work properly.

​What Happens If You Skip Professional AC Maintenance​

If you ignore AC maintenance for a year or more, you will begin to experience consequences, such as higher bills, more breakdowns, and a shorter system life. Mainly, the unit’s efficiency can drop by up to 20 percent if you do not perform necessary maintenance, as parts wear out faster.

Notably, if you still don’t act, you may end up calling for repairs more often. Usually, something simple, like a small refrigerant leak or a weak capacitor, left unfixed during maintenance, can result in a major breakdown. Also, the air in your house may become less comfortable as humidity rises, cooling drops off, and you notice more dust or allergens floating around.​

How to Ensure Implementation of the Recommended AC Maintenance Schedule

​Since sticking to an AC maintenance routine is crucial to avoid potential risks, it is essential to put measures in place to ensure you don’t miss the routine maintenance schedule. Mainly, you can ensure adherence to the recommended AC maintenance schedule by booking a professional AC service before the onset of hot months and by setting reminders on your phone to check the filters monthly.

Importantly, reputable AC maintenance companies offer maintenance plans you can conveniently sign up for. The company will handle scheduling, provide priority service, and sometimes offer discounts on repairs.

​Lastly, to avoid unexpected breakdowns that are usually common if you skip regular care, you can contact us. We will keep you on top of maintenance and ensure your AC runs better, lasts longer, and keeps you comfortable.

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