Routine air conditioner maintenance supports the longevity and performance of HVAC systems. Homeowners may face inefficient cooling, increased energy bills, and costly repairs without regular check-ups. If you’ve never had a maintenance appointment with an air conditioner technician before, here’s a detailed description of what to expect from a routine A/C maintenance appointment.
Initial Inspection
Before completing any repairs, the HVAC technician will perform an initial inspection of the air conditioner unit.
When evaluating the air conditioner, they’ll check for visible damage, loose connections, and debris buildup; the professional will also examine the thermostat for proper calibration and operation.
If the technician notices any issues throughout the inspection, he’ll discuss them with the homeowner and recommend solutions.
Coil Cleaning
Dirty coils can obstruct your A/C’s airflow. This makes it harder to cool your home, forces your air conditioner to work harder, increases energy bills, and could cause the system to fail. While tending to maintenance, the technician will clean the evaporator and condenser coils to ensure proper airflow.
Electrical System Check
Like other appliances in your home, the A/C relies on electrical systems to function. The technician will inspect all electrical connections, including wiring and switches. If they notice issues—such as frayed wires or loose connections—they’ll address the problems to prevent potential hazards, so the air conditioner runs safely.
Filter Replacement
The A/C air filter improves the quality of air circulating throughout the house by trapping dust, debris, and other contaminants. During the maintenance appointment, the technician will inspect and most likely replace the air filter. Remember that replacing the air filter is a simple task that you can conduct yourself. The maintenance professional may not replace the filter if you recently added a new air filter.
Pro Tip
The right time to replace your A/C filter is about every three to six months to prevent debris buildup.
Thermostat Assessment
A thermostat assessment is another component to expect from a routine A/C maintenance appointment. The thermostat is the control center of your air conditioner, allowing you to adjust the temperature within your home. During the inspection, the technician will check your thermostat’s calibration by comparing it to a thermometer. The technician will make the necessary adjustments to ensure that the A/C cools your home to the desired temperature for maximum efficiency.
Pro Tip
Proper calibration prevents unnecessary energy use and maintains consistent indoor temperatures.
Drain Line Inspection
Clogged drain lines can cause significant water damage and mold growth within your A/C system. This can lead to smells of mold or mildew emanating from your unit and spread throughout your home.
When you schedule a maintenance appointment, the technician examines the drain line for any visible blockages. Then they use specialized tools to remove clogs, such as a drain snake or high-pressure water jet. After clearing the blockage, the technician flushes the line to ensure proper flow.
Refrigerant Level Check
Low refrigerant levels reduce cooling efficiency and can damage the compressors. Technicians check refrigerant levels by measuring the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant. If the levels are low, the technician adds an improved A2L refrigerant for HVAC systems to keep the air cool.
Blower Motor Inspection
The blower motor ensures proper airflow throughout your home rather than just cooling the immediate area around the A/C unit. It’s necessary for the technician to evaluate the motor’s bearings, then lubricate them for smooth operation.
In some cases, the fan belt may need an adjustment or replacement. If the technician must repair this component, they will discuss the topic with you and provide an estimate for the additional work.
Outdoor Unit Inspection
The outdoor unit plays a valuable role in your A/C system’s performance because it houses the compressor and condenser coils. While tending to your air conditioner, the technician will check for any unit damage and proper airflow. They may also clean built-up debris on or around the A/C unit.
Overall Assessment
At the conclusion of the appointment, the technician will summarize their findings and discuss their recommendations for repairs or upgrades. For instance, they may advise you to change the air filter more often. This guidance helps you care for your air conditioner so it lasts for as long as possible.
Why A/C Maintenance Matters
Many homeowners overlook this important aspect. However, routine air conditioner maintenance will keep your home comfortable, energy efficient, and more! The benefits of maintaining your A/C unit include:
Improving Energy Efficiency
When the A/C system runs efficiently, it consumes less energy, which lowers utility bills. Likewise, regular maintenance ensures your A/C unit operates at its best, providing optimal cooling without wasting energy.
Dirty air filters, blocked evaporators, and impaired condenser coils restrict airflow and force the system to work harder. Routinely replacing the air filters as well as scheduling maintenance to clean the evaporator and condenser will improve your home’s air quality and lower the HVAC unit’s energy consumption.
Preventing Costly Repairs
By addressing small issues early on, you can avoid the inconvenience and price of a complete A/C unit breakdown. One common issue that routine maintenance prevents is refrigerant leaks. Low refrigerant levels cause the system to use excessive power, increasing energy consumption and the likelihood of damage.
Regular maintenance can also prevent sensor problems in your air conditioner. If a sensor is not functioning correctly, your system may cycle on and off frequently, causing unnecessary wear and tear.
Extending the Life Span of the Unit
Nothing is worse than having your air conditioner break down on a hot day. Consistent A/C maintenance can help prevent this scenario, so your unit works properly when you need it most.
Your A/C unit can provide reliable cooling for many years with proper care. By keeping your system in good working order, you can avoid the need for a premature replacement and maximize your investment.
HVAC technicians promptly identify potential issues during their visits, so they can conduct timely repairs before issues turn into costly problems. This proactive approach makes sure your A/C unit continues to provide reliable cooling.
Schedule A/C Maintenance Today
Scheduling regular A/C maintenance is essential for an efficient system. Style Crest offers A/C maintenance services, including cleaning and inspecting home units. We have a team of HVAC experts as well as over 50 years of business experience serving Melbourne, FL. Contact our team to schedule your next maintenance appointment to keep your A/C system operating at its best.
