Buying an air conditioner is a significant investment for any homeowner in Arnold, MD. You want your HVAC system to operate efficiently and reliably for as long as possible, especially during those sweltering summer months. Air conditioning maintenance is the key to achieving this goal.
Regular maintenance not only ensures that your air conditioner runs smoothly but also extends its lifespan, saving you money and hassle in the long run. In this blog, Grove Heating & Cooling explains how professional air conditioning services and DIY maintenance can add years to the life of your system.
How Does Professional Maintenance Help My Air Conditioner Last Longer?
Professional AC maintenance plays a critical role in prolonging the life of air conditioning units, increasing the time between air conditioning installation. Here’s how:
Reduces Wear and Tear
Every time your air conditioning system runs, its components experience wear and tear. Over time, this can lead to breakdowns and the need for air conditioning repair services. During a maintenance visit, one of our HVAC company technicians will inspect and lubricate moving parts, ensuring they operate smoothly and reducing the wear on essential components.
Limits Stress to the System
An air conditioning unit that is not maintained regularly has to work harder to cool your home. This increased workload puts additional stress on the system, which can lead to premature failure. Regular maintenance helps ensure that your air conditioner operates at peak performance, reducing the strain on the system and extending its operational life.
Improves Efficiency
Well-maintained air conditioning equipment runs more efficiently, using less energy to cool your home. Cleaning or replacing air filters, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring the thermostat is functioning correctly all contribute to improved HVAC unit efficiency. This leads to lower energy bills and also reduces the overall wear to HVAC systems, helping them last longer.
Identifies and Fixes Small Issues Early
During routine maintenance, a technician can spot and address minor issues before they become major problems. For instance, they might find a small refrigerant leak or a worn-out belt that could lead to a breakdown if left unaddressed. By fixing these minor repairs early, you can prevent more serious and expensive problems and keep your air conditioner running smoothly.
How Much Longer Can I Expect My Air Conditioner to Last?
The lifespan of an air conditioner varies depending on several factors, including the quality of the AC unit, usage patterns, and how well it is maintained. On average, a well-maintained air conditioner can last 15 or more years. In contrast, AC units that don’t receive regular maintenance may only last 10 to 12 years.
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your air conditioner by several years. By keeping all components in good working condition, ensuring efficient operation, and addressing minor issues promptly, you can significantly increase the lifespan of your unit. This means fewer air conditioning replacements and more savings over time.
What Else Can I Do to Protect My Air Conditioner?
Annual professional AC maintenance is an important aspect of keeping your HVAC system in service longer, whether it’s for your air conditioner, heat pump, or heating system. However, there are also several tasks homeowners can perform throughout the season to help their AC units:
Change the Air Filter Regularly
One of the simplest yet most effective things you can do to maintain your air conditioner or other forced air HVAC system is to change the air filter regularly. A clogged filter can restrict airflow, making your system work harder and reducing its efficiency. Check the filter every month and replace it as needed, typically every 1-3 months.
Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean
The outdoor unit of your air conditioner can accumulate dirt, leaves, and debris, which can obstruct airflow and reduce efficiency. Periodically check the unit and clear away any debris. Also, make sure there is at least two feet of clearance around the unit for proper airflow.
Monitor the Thermostat
Ensure your thermostat is set to an optimal temperature to avoid unnecessary strain on your air conditioner. Consider using a programmable thermostat or smart thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when you’re not home, which can reduce wear and tear on the air conditioning system.
Take the Guesswork Out of Professional AC Maintenance
Scheduling regular maintenance appointments can be easy to forget, but it’s essential for the longevity of your air conditioner. Grove Heating & Cooling offers maintenance memberships to help homeowners in Arnold, MD, ensure their air conditioners get the professional care they need.
Our maintenance memberships include annual tune ups for air conditioners as well as heating systems, priority service, and discounts on HVAC repair. By signing up, you can take the guesswork out of scheduling maintenance and have peace of mind knowing your air conditioner is in expert hands.
Our technicians will remind you when it’s time for a service visit, making it easy to keep your system running efficiently and extend its lifespan.
Put More Years Between You and a New Air Conditioner
Regular air conditioning maintenance is a great strategy to maximize the service life of your air conditioner. By reducing wear and tear, limiting stress, improving efficiency, and addressing small issues early, professional maintenance and simple DIY tasks can add years to your air conditioner’s lifespan.
Don’t let your investment go to waste—schedule your air conditioning maintenance with Grove Heating & Cooling today. Our maintenance memberships make it easy to keep your system in top condition, so you can enjoy a cool and comfortable home in Arnold, MD, for years to come.
Contact us now to learn more about our HVAC services in Arnold, MD, and sign up for our maintenance program.
