The Importance of Air Conditioning Maintenance

For many, there's no bigger nightmare than switching the AC on during the first hot day of summer and hearing nothing happening. Worse, perhaps you're greeted with a strange rattling noise or nothing but warm air. This is a nightmare to deal with not only because it means you will be hot and uncomfortable inside, but you'll also be looking at the major expense of replacing your cooling system.

The good news is that most premature breakdowns are preventable. Your air conditioner is a workhorse, but like any machine, it needs regular care to keep running efficiently. Neglecting small issues today often leads to catastrophic failures tomorrow. Learn all about the practical maintenance steps you can take to extend the lifespan of your unit. An air conditioning contractor like Domes Heating & Air Conditioning can also explain when it’s time to call a professional air conditioning contractor to handle the heavy lifting.

Why Maintenance Matters More Than You Think

Many homeowners treat their AC units like appliances that should "just work" until they break. However, an air conditioner is more like a car. You wouldn't drive your car for 100,000 miles without an oil change and expect the engine to survive.

Regular maintenance can increase the efficiency of your system by using less energy to cool your home, thereby lowering your monthly utility bills. It can also extend the lifespan of your system by reducing wear and tear, adding years to your system's life and delaying the need for a full replacement. Routine checks can also catch small problems before they turn into a mid-July breakdown requiring emergency AC repair.

DIY Maintenance: What You Can Do At Home

Homeowners can keep their air conditioners in tip-top shape with just a few simple tasks. These tasks include changing your air filters regularly, keeping your outdoor unit clear, and checking the thermostat settings. Make sure to check your air filter every month as a clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder to pull air through. Clear a two-foot radius around your unit to give it room to breathe. Trim back shrubs and remove any debris like leaves or twigs that have gathered against the fins, which could possibly block airflow. Sometimes the issue isn't the AC; it's the brain controlling it. Ensure your thermostat is working correctly. If you have an older model, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. This ensures your system isn't running when no one is home, reducing unnecessary wear and tear.

The Professional Difference: When to Call an Expert

While changing a filter is easy, the internal components of your HVAC system are complex and dangerous to tamper with if you aren't trained. To truly prevent replacement, you need annual professional maintenance. A qualified air conditioning contractor will check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical components, clean the coils, and inspect the condensate drain. You can trust a qualified air conditioning contractor to handle all this and more during your tune-up.

You may be in need of immediate AC repair if you notice weak airflow, warm air, strange odors, or loud noises coming from your air conditioning unit. That's when you need to call a professional like Domes Heating & Air Conditioning before your unit fails completely.

Schedule AC Maintenance Today

Don't wait for the hottest day of the year to find out your air conditioner is struggling. Preventive maintenance is an investment in your home’s comfort and your wallet. If you haven't had your system inspected recently, now is the time. Contact Domes Heating & Air Conditioning today if you're in Buffalo, NY to schedule your maintenance appointment. Let us help you stay cool, save money, and avoid the hassle of premature replacement. Get in touch with us today for a free quote or to schedule a service appointment.