It’s that time of year again: the sun is shining, the air is warm, and you’re craving some relief from the heat. You head inside to turn on your trusty AC unit, only to find it isn’t working like it used to. It’s not blowing as cold as before or making strange noises.
Sound familiar? In times like these, an AC tune up might be just what you need. But what exactly is an AC tune up?
An AC tune-up, also sometimes called a maintenance check, refers to a professional inspection and cleaning of your air conditioning system done by HVAC technicians trained for this specific purpose.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what goes into an annual AC maintenance visit and how regular upkeep can save money on bills over time while extending the lifespan of your cooling system investment. Keep reading!
Why is air conditioning tune-up important?
An annual tune-up is essential for a number of reasons. Without regular maintenance, your air conditioning system can lose up to 5% of its efficiency every year. This results in higher energy bills and undetected wear and tear on expensive components like the condenser coil or evaporator coil.
Getting an AC tune-up allows you to catch potential problems before they become serious issues that require more costly repairs or even a new system altogether!
Signs That Indicate the Need for an AC Tune Up
Is your AC unit making weird noises or emitting foul odors? Are you feeling hot despite increased usage and an increase in energy bills? These are just a few telltale signs that it’s time to schedule an AC tune-up. Let’s check that out-
1. Unusual Noises or Sounds from the AC Unit
Unusual noises or sounds from the AC system are common indicators that your cooling unit needs a tune-up. Strange sounds can signal anything from simple issues like loose screws to more severe problems involving damaged internal components. If these audible signals go untreated, there’s a chance of permanent damage costing hundreds of dollars.
If you hear unusual whistles or earth-shaking squeaks coming out of your air conditioning system- don’t wait! Schedule an appointment for an AC tune-up immediately before you have any irreversible damage on hand!
2. Increased Energy Bills without a Change in Usage
Have you recently seen a spike in your utility bills without a similar increase in AC usage? If so, it could be time for an AC tune-up. Factors like dirty coils or clogged filters can influence your air conditioner’s effectiveness, ultimately leading to high energy bills and expenses running into the hundreds if neglected.
To reduce energy consumption and remain efficient, regular maintenance is crucial. Especially considering that 40% of HVAC breakdowns result from poor upkeep, according to EnergyStar records. Get tuned up right away!
3. Inconsistent or Inadequate Cooling Performance
Inconsistent cooling or inadequate temperature control from your AC system could be a sign that your unit is struggling and needs maintenance attention. If the system isn’t producing cool air sufficiently or at all, there could be problems with its mechanical parts, such as compressors, fans, motors, etc.
Regular tune-ups from professional HVAC companies can prolong an AC’s life and keep it running efficiently without frequent breakdowns. By maintaining the unit correctly, from up-to-date filter cleaning to refrigerant checking, you can help monitor the correct airflow direction too!
4. Foul Odors Emitting from the AC System
If you notice a foul odor originating from your air conditioning system, it is an indication of poor maintenance and hygiene. This can result in dusty ventilation chutes or excess moisture accumulating inside – giving the absolute perfect breeding ground for microbes and bacterial growth.
The AC smell could also signal that there’s damage somewhere along the ductwork – something only professional HVAC technicians trained in AC tune-ups should handle. Bring our team on board when this happens, and we’ll fix up your cooling unit just fine!
5. Weak Airflow or Insufficient Ventilation
Weak airflow or insufficient ventilation from your AC system indicates that it’s struggling to blow cool air throughout the home or workplace. The underlying problem could range from a damaged compressor, restricted ducts, and dirty filters to problems affecting key components in the HVAC configuration.
If left unsolved for long periods of time, such issues can raise energy bills and increase wear and tear on other parts of your cooling system.
6. Excessive Condensation or Water Leakage
Excessive condensation or water leakage in and around the AC unit can be a sign of trouble. If you notice pools of water regularly collecting near your air conditioner, it’s likely there is a clog somewhere in the drain pipes or a blockage between refrigerants that demands attention ASAP.
This can lead to other serious issues like mold growth and property damage; call an HVAC technician for help if you spot this alarming sign!
7. Inability to Control Room Humidity Levels
Poor room humidity levels mean that your AC unit is falling behind on performance. If the air feels stuffy, moist, or muggy in rooms with operating air conditioning systems, these are quite common signs of low-efficiency cooling units.
A professional AC tune up can help restore your home’s ideal humidity levels by checking if there’s any improper ductwork installation or leaks or moisture within the system.
The benefits of getting an AC tune up
Getting an AC tune-up is like getting a check-up at the doctor’s office – it helps keep your air conditioning system running smoothly and efficiently. But the benefits don’t stop there!
1. Longer Lifespan
Regular AC tune-ups can prolong the lifespan of your unit by addressing minor issues before they turn into major problems.
According to a study conducted by Energy Star, air conditioners that have received annual maintenance keep running efficiently and reliably for at least 15 years. Without proper yearly upkeep, the average lifespan of an AC system is only around 10-12 years!
2. Improved Efficiency
Regular AC tune-ups will improve the efficiency of your unit by ensuring it is running at peak capacity. When your air conditioning system is working efficiently, you’ll experience better airflow and cooler temperatures in a shorter time.
According to the US Department of Energy, a well-maintained air conditioner uses between 15% and 25% less energy than an unmaintained one. That translates to significant savings on monthly energy bills!
3. Prevents Major Repairs
Annual AC tune-ups can catch small issues before they turn into major repairs down the road. During a maintenance check, an experienced HVAC technician can spot and address any potential problems with your system’s fans, motors, wiring, or other key components.
By catching these problems early on and fixing them promptly during routine maintenance visits, you could save yourself the cost and hassle of bigger air conditioning repair jobs in the future.
4. Saves Money on Energy Bills
Regular AC tune-ups help keep your cooling system running efficiently, ultimately saving you money on energy bills. In fact, a well-maintained air conditioner can cut energy costs by up to 15%!
Small issues like dirty filters and low refrigerant levels could be costing you more than necessary each month. An annual inspection catches these problems before they snowball into larger issues that lead to higher utility bills over time!
5. More Comfortable Home
An AC system that gets regular maintenance can also help keep your home more comfortable. This is because an efficiently functioning unit can cool your home more effectively, providing a consistent temperature throughout your residence.
Without proper upkeep, temperature fluctuations and reduced comfort levels may result from clogged filters or faulty parts that prevent proper airflow distribution in ducts.
Avoid the annoyance of inconsistent temperatures around the house by scheduling regular AC before it becomes problematic again during hot weather.
6. Improved Air Quality
By replacing dirty filters, cleaning the evaporator and condenser coils, and clearing out clogged drains during an AC tune-up service call, you can be sure your system will keep circulating clean air throughout your home or office.
Replacing worn-out parts that collect dust also plays a role in improving indoor air quality!
What is Included in an AC Tune up?
Wondering what’s included in an AC tune-up? Here are the essential elements of a professional maintenance check:
Inspection of your air conditioner by a qualified technician
During an AC tune-up, a qualified HVAC technician inspects your unit for common issues that can cause malfunctions. Even minor problems, such as low refrigerant levels or dirty filters, can eventually lead to bigger and more expensive problems with your cooling system.
Regular inspections help ensure that everything is in good working order and catch any issues before they become costly and time-consuming repairs down the road.
Cleaning and/or replacement of air filters
At the time of an AC tune-up, one important task is to clean or replace your air filters. Dirty filters can reduce indoor air quality as well as the efficiency of your cooling system.
A qualified technician will check if cleaning is enough for optimal performance or if a replacement is necessary at least every six months (ideally every three).
Cleaning of the condenser coil
The condenser coil is a critical part of your AC unit that emits the heat absorbed from your indoor air. Dirt and debris accumulation on the unit can make it difficult to effectively release this heat, forcing your cooling system to work harder than usual.
During an AC tune-up, a technician will clean this area with special tools to ensure efficient operating performance.
Checking and/or adjusting of refrigerant levels
Another crucial AC tune-up task is to check and/or adjust the refrigerant levels. Low levels could indicate a leak in the system that needs professional attention.
Proper refrigerant levels influence how well your cooling system operates and also help control energy costs by optimizing the energy efficiency of the device.
Lubrication of moving parts
During an AC tune-up, a technician will also lubricate the moving parts within your air conditioning system. This lubrication is crucial as it helps prevent friction and unnecessary wear and tear on these critical parts.
This simple maintenance task has been proven to extend the life of your AC unit while ensuring that you experience smoother and quieter operation throughout its lifespan.
Diagnosis and repair of any problems found
When a qualified technician performs an AC tune-up, they will also diagnose and repair any problems that are found upon inspection. Catching and fixing small issues early on can prevent more significant problems in the future.
It is almost vital to call on professionals rather than DIY means or non-licensed handymen.
How Often Should You Get an AC Tune up?
Experts recommend scheduling an AC tune-up once a year, ideally before the hot summer season begins. Regular maintenance helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and reliably, extending the life of your air conditioning unit.
However, it is also important to note that air conditioners can vary based on many factors, including age (new or old), usage levels, humidity levels, and so on. Therefore getting a professional opinion suited for your AC system will help determine how often you need an AC service call, especially if there are any signs indicating otherwise, such as reduced efficiency or increased energy consumption over time, etc.
How Much for AC Tune Up?
An average AC tune-up cost can vary depending on a few factors. It’s best to ask your local HVAC professional for pricing details. But, generally speaking, the cost of annual maintenance can range from $80 to $150 or more per unit.
While it may seem like an added expense in the short term, regular tune-ups and upkeep checks may curb additional repairs later down the road — ones that could end up costing you much more than preventive measures would upfront. Think of it as investing now instead of risking high-cost surprises come peak cooling season!
Contact G & R Heating and Air For ac tune-ups
If you’re interested in scheduling an AC maintenance visit, G & R Heating and Air is here to help. As residential and commercial HVAC experts based in Gilberts, IL, we offer comprehensive routine tune-ups for all types of air conditioning units.
Our team of trained technicians can examine your AC system’s components, such as the condenser coil, refrigerant levels, and evaporator coil, while also cleaning areas, such as air filters, that are essential to keeping your home cool.
G & R Heating and Air offers efficient services designed to optimize performance so homeowners can make the most of their existing investments.
Don’t wait until summer’s hottest days arrive: Contact us now for superior heating and cooling solutions all through the Chicagoland area!
