When the summer heat kicks in, the last thing you want is an air conditioner that’s struggling to keep up. Regular AC maintenance is the key to keeping your home cool, your energy bills low, and your system running efficiently. But how often should you get your AC serviced to ensure it stays in top shape?
In this blog, we’ll cover how frequently you should schedule AC maintenance, what to check to ensure everything is working properly, and why keeping the condenser coil clean can lower your electric bill.
How Often Should You Get Your AC Serviced?
Experts recommend getting your AC serviced at least once a year, ideally in the spring, before the cooling season begins. This allows a professional HVAC technician to:
✅ Inspect and clean essential components
✅ Check refrigerant levels
✅ Ensure all parts are functioning efficiently
✅ Identify and fix potential problems before they become costly repairs
How to Make Sure Your AC is Working Correctly
Even if your AC seems to be running fine, it’s important to check for warning signs that indicate it may need servicing. Here’s what you should look for:
🔹 Weak Airflow – If your AC isn’t blowing air as strongly as it used to, there could be a clog in the system or a problem with the blower motor.
🔹 Uneven Cooling – If some rooms are colder than others, your system may have airflow issues or a refrigerant problem.
🔹 Higher Than Usual Energy Bills – A sudden spike in electricity costs can mean your AC is working harder than it should, often due to dirty components or low refrigerant levels.
🔹 Unusual Noises or Smells – Loud banging, rattling, or musty odors can indicate anything from a failing motor to mold buildup in the system.
🔹 Frequent Cycling On and Off – If your AC keeps turning on and off quickly (short cycling), it may be overheating or struggling to maintain the temperature due to a dirty coil or incorrect refrigerant levels.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to schedule AC service to prevent further damage and inefficiency.
The Importance of Keeping the Condenser Coil Clean
One of the most overlooked yet crucial parts of AC maintenance is keeping the condenser coil clean. The condenser coil, located in the outdoor unit, is responsible for releasing heat from your home. When it’s covered in dirt, debris, or leaves, your system has to work harder to cool your home, leading to:
❌ Higher Energy Bills – A dirty coil reduces efficiency, making your AC consume more electricity.
❌ Reduced Cooling Power – The AC won’t be able to remove heat as effectively, leading to longer cooling cycles and uneven temperatures.
❌ Increased Wear and Tear – The harder your AC works, the more stress it puts on components like the compressor, leading to costly repairs.
How to Keep Your Condenser Coil Clean
You can help maintain your condenser coil by:
✔️ Removing debris – Check for leaves, grass, and dirt around the outdoor unit and clear it away.
✔️ Washing the coil – Use a hose (on low pressure) to gently rinse dirt off the coil fins.
✔️ Scheduling professional cleanings – During your annual AC service, a technician will perform a deep clean and check for any damage.
Keeping your condenser coil clean can improve your AC’s efficiency by up to 30% and result in lower electric bills!
Don’t Skip AC Maintenance
So, how often should you get your AC serviced? At least once a year, preferably in the spring, to ensure it runs efficiently when you need it most.
Regular AC service saves you money by:
✅ Lowering energy costs
✅ Preventing expensive repairs
✅ Extending the lifespan of your system
If you haven’t scheduled your annual AC service yet, now’s the time! Yurkovich Mechanical offers expert AC maintenance, repairs, and coil cleaning to keep your home cool and your energy bills low.
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