6 Reasons to Get Your AC Checked out by a Pro Every Spring
As a homeowner, there are a lot of things to remember to do every year to keep your house in good shape. Some can be ignored or put off for a time, but annual air conditioning maintenance is not one of them. The best plan is to have your AC unit (indoor and out) serviced every year in the spring, before peak cooling season.
If you’re here in the Cincinnati area, you can join Jansen Heating & Cooling’s Maintenance Club. That way, you don’t have to remember when it’s time for your annual furnace and AC checks; we’ll remind you, and give you extra perks like service discounts and preferred appointments in emergencies.
Why Annual AC Service Matters So Much
Getting annual maintenance on your AC system is crucial, especially if you want to keep it running efficiently for as long as possible, avoid costly repairs, and delay a HVAC replacement for as long as possible.
Here are six reasons why an annual visit from your trusted HVAC professional is so important:
1. Improves energy efficiency
Over time, dust and debris build up in your system, making it work harder and use more electricity to create the same cooling effect, hampering heat transfer and reducing efficiency. An overworked AC will not last as long as one that is serviced regularly by a professional HVAC company like Jansen Heating & Cooling. It will also require more electricity to cool your home to the same level, and won’t produce as comfortable of a result in terms of cooling your home.
A well-maintained AC system also runs more efficiently, keeping your energy bills lower. At your regular maintenance appointment, your HVAC company will clean the coils and check the refrigerant levels, ensuring everything is ready to go and in good condition.
2. Prevents costly breakdowns
Small issues like clogged filters, blocked drain lines, refrigerant leaks or worn-out parts can turn into major (and expensive) repairs for your air conditioner if not caught early. Your Jansen technician will note any issues and provide an iron-clad estimate to fix them (on the spot, if possible).
Regular HVAC check-ups also help prevent unexpected breakdowns, especially during peak summer months. There’s nothing worse than your AC going kaput on the hottest day of the year, when repair people are in high demand. Instead of placing an urgent repair call on a record-breaking August afternoon, plan for a low stress maintenance appointment in mid-April that prevents emergency call outs.
3. Extends the lifespan of your system
AC units that get routine maintenance can last years longer than neglected ones. Because replacing an entire system is so expensive, maintaining it can save you a lot of money in the long run.
A new AC unit for a 1500 sq. ft. home can cost a few to several thousand dollars including installation, with most homes of this size needing a 2.5 to 3 ton unit (depending on the climate and home layout). This price range considers the cost of the unit itself, labor for installation and potential additional materials needed.
Taking good care of your AC can help postpone the need to install a new system. Removing dust and debris, changing the air filter regularly, and handling small issues before they damage equipment all contribute to a longer, less troublesome lifespan for your home’s air conditioning system.
4. Keeps your indoor air quality healthier
Dirty AC components can circulate dust, mold, and allergens throughout your home. Regular cleaning and filter changes help improve indoor air quality. HVAC air filter maintenance is a DIY task that most homeowners can handle on their own, but if your system is due for a new filter, we can replace yours when we’re servicing your heating and cooling unit.
If air quality is of particular concern to members of your family, Jansen can help you explore AC system enhancements such as:
- Whole home air purifiers
- Room air purifiers
- Humidifiers and dehumidifiers
- Ventilators
- UV lamps
- Air monitors
- Carbon air purifiers with UV
- Carbon monoxide alarms
5. Ensures consistent cooling performance
If your HVAC system isn’t professionally maintained, you might notice uneven cooling or weak airflow. A properly serviced AC keeps your home comfortable and cool all summer long. While we’re there, we can also check that your vents and registers are free and clear, allowing the cool air you’re paying for to move efficiently through your home.
6. Protects your warranty
Many AC manufacturers require maintenance at least annually in order to keep the warranty valid. If you skip your maintenance appointments, and something breaks, you might have to pay out of pocket for repairs.
Spending the money to get your air conditioner professionally serviced each year can save you much more in energy bills, repair costs and stress over time. Keep up with your regular HVAC maintenance, and your system will serve you for a lot longer.
What If You Have Ignored AC Maintenance for a Year or More?
So you let this task slip a few times — no problem. It is never too late to get back in the habit of regular maintenance. Other companies specializing in HVAC may scold you for ignoring your AC, but your Jansen Heating & Cooling technician won’t; it happens. We want to get you and your AC back on the right track, however long it’s been since your last maintenance appointment. We will get your system cleaned up, serviced, and ready to go, and we’ll encourage you to call again next spring after your catch-up visit, or to join our Maintenance Club so you’re never in the same situation again!