Your air conditioner is built to last. Modern AC units can function for 15 to 20 years, according to most manufacturers’ estimates. However, this number is extremely variable. AC units only reach their maximum lifespan if they are properly maintained.
R&R Heating and Cooling provides HVAC services, including air conditioning services, in Grand Rapids, MI, and beyond. Here, we tell you how to extend the life of your air conditioner with seven easy tips for AC maintenance.
Key Takeaways
- AC maintenance is essential to prevent breakdowns, improve your system’s efficiency and performance, reduce power bills, and extend its lifespan.
- You can extend your AC’s lifespan by changing filters regularly, keeping the outdoor unit clean, using a programmable thermostat, insulating your vents and home, and more.
- R&R Heating and Cooling offers routine maintenance visits for inspections, minor repairs, and tune-ups before the summer.
Why AC Maintenance Matters
AC units are durable pieces of equipment, but they aren’t invulnerable. Years of heavy usage result in accumulated wear and tear. Tiny problems can quickly snowball into larger ones if they aren’t found and repaired. AC maintenance is an opportunity to detect signs of wear and fix them before that happens. By resolving issues promptly, maintenance offers some important benefits:
- Preventing breakdowns
- Reducing the cost of repairs
- Increasing your system’s efficiency
- Improving your system’s performance
- Reducing power bills
AC maintenance also helps to extend the lifespan of your AC. Unresolved repair issues and ordinary wear can both eat away at your AC’s lifespan, leading to an early shutdown and a costly AC replacement. A regular preventive maintenance plan is a comparatively simple way to get the most out of your AC while saving money in the long run.
How to Extend the Life of Your Air Conditioner
Fortunately, AC maintenance is not complicated. There are many ways to reduce wear and tear at home. When more complex maintenance is required, R&R Heating and Cooling can help. Our tips include:
Change Filters Regularly
Air filters trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles as they move through your system. This accumulated gunk can clog the filter, forcing your AC to work harder. Routinely changing the filter reduces wear and tear while improving your indoor air quality (IAQ) for easier breathing.
Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clean
Your outdoor AC unit is similarly vulnerable to blockages. If leaves or debris clog the vents, then your system will strain more than it needs to. Check your outdoor unit regularly and clear away any sticks, leaves, or other junk that accumulates on or around it.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Don’t make your AC work harder or longer than it needs to. A programmable thermostat lets you set a custom schedule to match your lifestyle. Your AC will activate while you’re home and turn off when you’re not, saving power and reducing wear and tear to your system.
Seal Your Ductwork
Sealed ductwork is another way to reduce your system’s workload. Gaps in the ducts allow cool air to escape, meaning that your system is working harder for no real benefit. Sealing your ductwork can go a long way toward improving your system’s efficiency and its lifespan.
Maintain Proper Insulation
Don’t just seal your ductwork. You can also improve your AC efficiency and reduce its workload by sealing your home with proper insulation. Your system will run less to maintain the same comfortable temperature, and you’ll also pay less for energy.
Avoid Overworking the Unit
The above advice can be summarized with one goal: don’t overwork your unit. The harder your unit works, the more it wears down. You can also reduce your system’s workload with smart, energy-conscious decisions about AC usage.
Schedule Seasonal Tune-Ups
Seasonal tune-ups from R&R Heating and Cooling include an inspection, minor repairs, cleaning, and tuning of all your AC system’s components. Our professionals will identify and address any emerging problems while also improving your system’s performance.
Extend Your AC Lifespan with R&R Heating and Cooling
Extend your air conditioner’s lifespan with help from the professionals at R&R Heating and Cooling. We have years of experience and are committed to delivering exceptional customer service. We serve Grand Rapids, Michigan, and beyond with a complete range of heating, cooling, and IAQ services. Contact us today to learn more about AC maintenance and other services.
Air Conditioner FAQ
How often should I service my AC?
AC units should be serviced at least once a year and whenever you notice a problem.
What are the signs my AC needs attention?
Signs your AC needs attention include unusual sounds and smells, inconsistent cooling, reduced airflow, and increased energy bills with no increase in usage.
Is professional AC maintenance worth it?
Yes. While professional AC maintenance may seem pricy, it can actually save money in the long run by preventing expensive breakdowns and early replacements.
