Keeping your air conditioning unit in excellent working order can help it to run more efficiently and last longer. That means conducting tune-ups and maintenance tasks as necessary. In order to help homeowners understand the importance of an air conditioning service, here are the differences between an AC tune-up and regular maintenance:
What Is an AC Tune-Up?
AC tune-ups mainly focus on increasing the unit’s efficiency. AC efficiency is vital, as it directly impacts a homeowner’s energy costs. When a unit doesn’t run efficiently, it uses more energy than necessary to cool a home. That translates to higher utility bills. It may also not provide the desired cooling level, leading to an uncomfortable home temperature.
During a tune-up, an air conditioning service technician will look for any issues that could hamper the unit’s performance. They’ll check the air filter to ensure it’s not clogged and inspect the ductwork for potential energy loss. Some other tasks they may do include:
- Lubricating moving parts: Lubrication is vital to any air conditioning tune-up. It helps the unit run smoother and prevents wear and tear on components.
- Checking refrigerant levels: If refrigerant levels are too low, it can prevent the unit from cooling properly. Low levels can also damage the compressor.
- Thorough cleaning of condenser coils: Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate on the condenser coils. That hinders the unit’s ability to cool properly. A reliable AC technician will thoroughly clean the coils to eliminate dirt and debris.
- Replacing old or worn-out parts: Old and worn-out parts can cause an air conditioning unit to run inefficiently. Replacing them is key for keeping the unit in top condition.
What Is Air Conditioning Maintenance?
Air conditioning maintenance focuses on preventing problems before they happen. That means inspecting and testing various system components to ensure they are all in proper working condition. Doing so allows you to identify any minor issues before they become major ones. Since minor repairs are much cheaper and easier to do than larger ones, maintenance can potentially save you money in the long run. Some of the maintenance tasks that an AC technician may conduct include:
- Checking oil and refrigerant leaks: Oil and refrigerant leaks are bad for the environment and can cause major damage to an air conditioning system. A technician can identify any leaks and knows how to seal or repair them properly.
- Inspecting the condenser fan: The condenser fan helps circulate air over the condenser coils, which helps keep them cool. An AC technician can determine if the fan is working properly and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.
- Checking for any noises: If the AC unit is making any strange noises, that could be a sign of an issue. A technician can identify what’s wrong and make the necessary repairs.
- Inspecting wiring and electrical connections: Faulty wiring can lead to various problems, including fire hazards. An AC maintenance professional can check all wiring and electrical connections for potential problems and fix them if necessary.
- Thermostat and compressor inspection: When the compressor and thermostat aren’t working properly, the unit won’t cool as it should. An inspection can ensure they are functioning correctly.
AC Tune-Up Versus Maintenance: Which One Is Best?
When it comes to your AC’s health, you can’t choose one over the other. If you choose a tune-up and leave out the maintenance, you may miss out on preventive measures that could help you avoid costly repairs down the road. If you choose maintenance and skip the tune-up, you could miss out on tasks that can ensure peak performance and save energy bills.
The best option is to do both, typically before the warmer months start. That way, you can be sure your air conditioner is ready to provide optimal coolness and comfort all summer long. By doing regular maintenance and tune-ups, you can potentially minimize breakdowns and keep your AC running at maximum efficiency.
Schedule Your Air Conditioning Service Today
If it’s been a while since you had your air conditioner serviced, now is the time to do so. Contact your local air conditioning service provider and schedule an AC tune-up or maintenance appointment today. A professional technician will inspect and service your AC unit, so you can rest easy knowing it will be ready to take on the summer heat.