Summer officially arrived a little more than a week ago. We’ve experienced some hot days, but the worst is yet to come.
Is your AC system cooling as efficiently as it did during the same time last year? Was your first summer electric bill similar to last year’s bill? If the answer to either question is no, it’s time to schedule and air conditioner tune-up.
Annual AC Tune-Up
Even if it seems the system is running well, it’s always a good idea to have your cooling system checked and tuned at last once annually. A yearly check out can save your money now and long-term.
- Avoid expensive emergency repairs by replacing worn parts before they fail.
- Improve your home’s safety by replacing or repairing loose or worn wiring, capacitors or contacts the could potentially start a fire.
- Extend the lifespan of the AC equipment by repairing small problems before they turn into much larger ones.
- Thorough cleaning of the system’s condenser coils increases energy efficiency.
Our air conditioning check out and tune-up includes a complete, thorough inspection and cleaning of all system parts, a coolant level check, adjustment of the thermostat, instrument testing of electrical parts (like motors and fans) and their connected parts (belts), and lubrication of all moving parts. Most AC contractors will provide you a detailed report that includes recommended updates or repairs, and any relevant system information you can use to track the AC system’s yearly performance.
Filters Are Important, Too
Depending on the type of filter on your system, you should change filters every other month or more often. During a tune-up, our maintenance tech will show you where they’re located and how to change them. If you don’t know where the filters are, or how to change them, this is a great opportunity to learn.
It’s also an opportunity learn about the various filter types available. You might find the alternatives to the inexpensive disposable fiberglas filters a better value:
- Electronic filters are the priciest option, but they’re also the most effective. The electric field they create attracts particles like a magnet. They’re usually part of higher-end systems, but if you have a family members with asthma or allergies, well worth the expense.
- Electrostatic filters are reusable and washable, eliminating the need to replace them monthly. They employ a static charge to attract particles that are too small to get filtered by typical fiberglas filters.
- Pleated air filters contain more filter material and a different design from inexpensive fiberglas filters, allowing them to eliminate smaller particles. Families with allergies or asthma begin to see benefit with this type of filter vs. fiberglas without the additional cost of electrostatic or electronic filters. The down side is these filters restrict airflow a bit and force AC systems to work a little harder, increasing component wear and energy usage.
If you have yet to schedule a check out and tune-up for your Air Conditioner yet, take a minute to call your local HVAC experts, Pickerington Heating & Cooling, before those extreme summer temperatures arrive. Call 614-837-4026 today to schedule your AC Check Out and Tune-Up.
