As summer approaches, AC becomes vital but can spike energy bills. Regular maintenance like filter cleaning, coil and fin checks, and thermostat calibration can save up to 15% on energy costs, extend AC lifespan, and prevent costly repairs. DIY tasks like filter replacement help, but professional checks ensure all components work efficiently. Air Docs Heating and Air in Vero Beach, Florida, offers affordable maintenance services to keep the AC running smoothly and the bills low.
As the summer months approach and the warm season kicks into full gear, they start relying more on the air conditioning to keep the home cool. But with that relief comes a familiar worry of high cooling costs. Keeping the space at a comfortable temperature all summer can strain the household budget, especially during the peak summer months.
How AC maintenance lowers the cooling costs
In Florida, the average person pays around $154.51 on their monthly electricity bill
In Florida, the average person pays around $154.51 on their monthly electricity bill. And that’s before the summer heat pushes them to use their AC more intensely. But there is a way to keep those unavoidable expenses from skyrocketing.
This article will discuss how AC maintenance lowers cooling costs and reduces other unexpected expenses. Staying on top of the AC upkeep can lead to substantial savings on the utility bill while keeping the home at the perfect temperature for summer.
Why the Need AC Maintenance
Like any major appliance you use daily, the AC needs more attention to keep running efficiently. Regular AC maintenance can prevent unexpected malfunctions that leave the sweating because of the temperature and the repair bill. The AC has many components that must be running in perfect order. Otherwise, they can cause the unit to work harder for worse results. The parts that need regular inspections and maintenance include:
- Filters: A clean filter allows the air to flow freely, reducing the strain on the system and improving the air quality and AC efficiency. Something as simple as cleaning or replacing the AC filters every few months can improve the AC’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.
- Coils: Over time, the evaporator and condenser coils can lose their ability to absorb heat because they are covered in dust and dirt. That inefficiency causes the AC to work harder to cool the home and use more energy. The result is increased wear and tear of the AC unit and higher energy costs.
- Fins: The fins on the evaporator and condenser coils can bend easily and block air from moving through them. To help the AC work more efficiently, maintain these fins and straighten any bends with a “fin comb.”
- Thermostat: If it’s not working correctly, the thermostat could tell the AC to run more than necessary, spiking the energy usage. Setting the thermostat to an optimal temperature can help save energy, and investing in a smart thermostat offers even more benefits. They can tell it not to cool the house while they’re away or asleep and save up to 10%.
- Refrigerant Levels: Running the AC with low refrigerant can lead to higher running costs and might even damage the compressor. That’s not an easy part to repair or replace, and it can get expensive. When the system has the right amount of refrigerant, it can cool the home effectively without overworking.
The Cost-Saving Outcomes of Regular AC Maintenance
Household upkeep often focuses on areas that need immediate attention, like a leaky roof or a busted pipe
Household upkeep often focuses on areas that need immediate attention, like a leaky roof or a busted pipe. Sometimes, they forget about the AC system until it gets too hot to ignore.
Regular AC maintenance might seem like an added expense at first glance, but when they break down the benefits, it’s clear that the savings outweigh the initial costs. Keeping the air conditioning system in good condition can reduce energy bills, among other expenses.
Reduced Energy Bills
According to a recent survey, using ACs accounts for about 12% of all energy expenditures in American homes. A properly serviced AC unit doesn’t have to strain to cool the home and drive up the bill. Dirty filters, clogged drain lines, and other minor issues can make the system work overtime to reach and maintain temperature.
Regular maintenance checks ensure that the system operates at optimal efficiency, especially during the seasons when they need it the most. Technicians can spot and rectify anything causing the unit to expend more energy than necessary, ensuring that it uses what it needs to keep the space at the right temperature.
Prolong The Lifespan of The Unit
An AC or an HVAC system typically lasts 15 to 20 years, depending on the model and use
An AC or an HVAC system typically lasts 15 to 20 years, depending on the model and use. A well-maintained AC unit can serve them well beyond the average lifespan, saving money on repairs. This period becomes much shorter if they neglect to maintain the AC system.
During maintenance visits, technicians can identify parts that are wearing out and replace them before they cause system breakdowns. That keeps the AC running more efficiently for longer and saves them from the expense of having to replace the entire system prematurely.
Avoiding Expensive Repairs
Many people don’t realize how quickly a minor issue can become an expensive problem. They usually dismiss it, thinking it’s nothing, and end up paying $100 to $650 for AC repairs. With routine maintenance checks, technicians can identify and fix minor issues on the spot.
This preemptive approach prevents minor problems from adding up over time. For example, a refrigerant leak is easy to fix if they spot it early. But if they don’t, it can lead to compressor failure. That is a repair that comes with a hefty price tag.
DIY Maintenance AC Tips
If they want to be even more cost-effective, they can do a few DIY maintenance tasks themselves
If they want to be even more cost-effective, they can do a few DIY maintenance tasks themselves. They include simple things like cleaning or replacing the air filters in the indoor unit. A clogged air filter can drastically reduce the AC’s efficiency, so checking it monthly and swapping it out can make a big difference.
Another task they can handle is cleaning the condenser unit. The outdoor AC unit can gather a lot of debris, and gently hosing it off can prevent the system from overworking. Just make sure not to bend the fins while they clean them. They can also check the drain line to ensure it’s not clogged or growing mold.
Electrical issues or inconsistent cooling
If they have central air conditioning, one way to prevent the system from overworking is to remove any vent obstruction. Look for rugs, carpets, furniture, or other objects in the way and move them to restore airflow.
Finally, there are maintenance tasks they should leave to the professionals. If the AC needs more refrigerant, don’t attempt to do it on the own. The same goes if they notice any electrical issues or inconsistent cooling. These are signs the system needs a look by someone trained to spot and fix such issues.
The Benefits of Professional AC Maintenance
When a skilled technician inspects the AC system, they will look at every part and every component
When a skilled technician inspects the AC system, they will look at every part and every component. They will check the refrigerant levels to ensure the unit isn’t working on fumes and overexerting itself. They also inspect the electrical components for any signs of wear, such as worn-out wires, bent fins, dirty coils, or anything else that can impede the performance of the AC.
If they have central air, they will check the ducts to ensure they’re clean and distributing air efficiently. They will also check the thermostat to see if it’s properly calibrated. And if they want their home to be more energy efficient, they can swap it out for a smart thermostat.
Save Big With AC Maintenance in Vero Beach, Florida
Simple steps, like cleaning the air filters and checking the system’s coils and fins, can improve the unit’s efficiency and prevent malfunctions. They can tackle many maintenance tasks on their own to keep the AC running smoothly, but they will need the help of professional HVAC services for a thorough maintenance check.
If paying less on the utility bill and getting more out of the AC sounds tempting, the HVAC experts at Air Docs Heating and Air in Vero Beach, Florida, can help them. They want their customers to maximize their savings, so they have fair and affordable pricing for repair and maintenance services. They are available any time of day, so don’t wait until the system is struggling, and contact them immediately!
