It’s been a long and snowy winter for much of the Midwest. Fortunately, March’s arrival means spring is on the horizon.
Most homeowners have a seasonal to-do list that includes yard work, putting away winter coats, and, of course, spring cleaning. But any list that omits “schedule an AC tune-up” is incomplete!
This post explains why it’s essential to give your AC system some TLC before warmer temperatures arrive.
1. Prevent Costly Breakdowns in the Summer
Like some of us, your air conditioner has been sitting idle all winter. Over the last few months, it’s collected dust and may have developed minor issues that could appear once you turn it on.
A spring tune-up gives technicians a chance to find the source of potential problems, like worn-out parts, refrigerant leaks, or clogged drains, before they become expensive and uncomfortable breakdowns in the middle of summer.
The last thing you want is for your AC to fail on the first scorching hot day. Scheduling maintenance now gives you confidence that your system is ready for whatever the next six months have in store.
2. Higher Efficiency Means Lower Electric Costs
Many homeowners make the mistake of foregoing regular HVAC maintenance to save a little money. The reality (or rather, the irony) is that spending a little on maintenance will pay for itself over time through increased energy efficiency and system longevity.
HVAC components accumulate dirt and debris over time. These parts require annual cleaning to perform at their best. During a spring tune-up, an HVAC technician will clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure all components are functioning efficiently. This process helps your system run smoothly, meaning it takes less energy to cool your home.
Still not convinced cleaning makes an impact? Don’t take our word for it. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, regular maintenance can improve your air conditioner’s efficiency by up to 15%!
3. Extend the Lifespan of Your System
Energy savings add up, but maximizing your system’s lifespan is the ultimate benefit of regular maintenance. The leading manufacturers say AC systems should last between 10 and 20 years. That’s a significant difference. The 10-year discrepancy represents the advantages of regular servicing.
Unclean systems cause excess strain on key components, causing them to wear out faster. If you don’t maintain your system, the best-case scenario is costly replacements and repairs. The worst-case is system failure.
By scheduling a spring tune-up, you’re increasing the likelihood that your AC system will make it to the coveted 20+ Years Club.
4. Enhance Indoor Air Quality
Aside from comfort, your HVAC system plays an important – yet often overlooked – role in your health. Dust, pollen, mold, and other allergens build up in your system’s filter and circulate throughout your home.
Our tune-up protocols include cleaning or replacing air filters, thereby reducing the contaminants you and your family breathe in each day. If you want to enhance indoor air quality further, ask your Hoock’s tech about our IAQ upgrades.
5. Avoid the Seasonal Rush and Long Wait Times
During summer’s first heat wave, HVAC companies get flooded with service calls. In many cases, these urgent repair requests can mean longer wait times for maintenance.
Here’s a tip from the pros: scheduling service before the seasons change gives you the best chance to receive prompt attention. Additionally, scheduling in early spring ensures that your air conditioner is in optimal condition when you rely more heavily on it in warmer months.
What’s Included in An Air Conditioner Maintenance Check?
Our trained technicians take pride in being thorough during each cooling maintenance visit. We follow an extensive checklist that includes the following:
- Check Thermostat Operations
- Check For Proper Air Flow
- Clean Condenser Coil
- Clean Evaporator Coil
- Check Refrigerant Levels
- Check Condensate Drain Pan
- Check All Condensate Drain Lines
- Check Capacitors
- Check Contactors
- Inspect Fan Blades
- Check for Unusual Noises
- Inspect Electrical Connections
- Inspect Electrical Wires
- Measure Volts and Amps of Electrical Components
- Check Filters
Before we leave, we’ll review our checklist with you and give you a copy outlining the current state of your system. We will recommend repairs as necessary but won’t push you into purchasing something you don’t need.
Beat the Rush: Call Hoock’s to Schedule Your Spring AC Service Today
Act now, chill later! A quick, affordable spring tune-up is a cost-effective investment that keeps your home comfortable all spring and summer long. That means when the first heat wave rolls around, you’ll have complete peace of mind.
Contact us today and see what it means to get Hoock’d up with industry-leading HVAC service!