When the weather is hot in Missouri, the air conditioning is usually the only fully operational appliance. It does more than lower the temperature in the home; it decreases the amount of moisture indoors and hence lowers the chance of some forms of damage. The effective use of this crucial equipment when you need it the most will largely depend on the routine AC maintenance process.
The Hidden Benefits of Regular Maintenance
Most homeowners often overlook the financial and overall convenience of a gradually maintained cooling system. Such a system is not just cost-efficient because it prevents outages but also reduces power consumption and improves cooling capabilities.
Additionally, maintenance goes a long way in maintaining good indoor air quality by cleaning out filters and other equipment. This is important for family members receiving treatment for respiratory conditions or asthma, as it aids in breathing by ensuring the family’s filtered air is pure, as there are no pollutants.
There is a reason why an efficient air conditioner is so sought after: it controls humidity. Reasonable humidity control eliminates most of the issues that come with moisture, such as mold, warped wood, and damaged drywalls and carpets – these, along with many more, are to be prevented as they are a nuisance to the health of a building and equate to large sums of money to be fixed.
DIY AC Maintenance Tasks
While professional service is essential, several maintenance tasks fall within a homeowner’s capabilities:
Filter replacement stands as the most critical DIY maintenance task. Checking and changing air filters monthly during high-usage seasons prevents restricted airflow, forcing your system to work harder. Clogged filters increase energy consumption and reduce cooling effectiveness and indoor air quality.
Creating a clear zone around your outdoor unit helps maintain proper airflow. Remove leaves, branches, and other debris from a two-foot perimeter around the condenser to help prevent coil clogging and system strain.
Listening to unusual noises can help identify potential problems early.
When to Call the Professionals
While DIY maintenance helps, professional AC maintenance provides comprehensive care that extends system life and prevents costly breakdowns. Consider scheduling professional service:
At least once yearly, ideally in spring,, before the cooling season begins. This timing ensures your system is ready when temperatures rise and helps you avoid the summer rush for service appointments.
When you notice performance issues like weak airflow, temperature fluctuations, or unexpected increases in your utility bills. These symptoms often indicate problems that require professional attention.
Even for newly installed systems, professional AC maintenance helps ensure warranty compliance and establishes baseline performance for future reference.
What Professional Maintenance Includes
A thorough professional AC maintenance visit typically covers:
- Refrigerant level checks and adjustments
- Electrical connection inspection and tightening
- Moving part lubrication
- Belt examination for wear
- Coil cleaning and damage assessment
- Comprehensive system performance testing
An Investment That Pays Dividends
Regular AC maintenance represents one of the most cost-effective investments in your home’s comfort system. By preventing emergency repairs, extending equipment life, and optimizing energy efficiency, maintenance services typically pay for themselves many times over.
Proper AC maintenance allows you to enjoy reliable cooling, better air quality, and lower utility bills throughout even the hottest Missouri summers. Schedule your annual tune-up today to ensure your system delivers peak performance when needed.
