There’s no doubt that residents in Annapolis, Maryland, and the rest of the Northeast have experienced an unusually warm winter this year – you can thank El Niño. Many in our area were using AC systems late into last year and perhaps earlier than normal this year. But with spring already here and summer just around the corner, you need to be sure that you air conditioner will be functioning for optimal comfort. The following are five benefits of preventive maintenance and how you can prepare your air conditioner for the hot and humid summer ahead.
Save Energy and the Environment
Efficiency – it’s the key to air conditioner performance and energy savings. When your air conditioner doesn’t have to work harder than needed to provide your home with cool air and a comfortable setting, it’s also better for the environment. To maximize your air conditioner’s efficiency, it’s important that you hire a trained HVAC professional to inspect and maintain it. When you do so, he or she will:
- Inspect the thermostat, to make sure that it measures the correct readings
- Check the electrical connections for loose fittings and tighten them
- Lubricate all moving parts, ensuring they function properly
- Clean the blower components, to ensure the movement of free-flowing air
- Check the refrigerant levels and fill appropriately
- Inspect the condensate drain and clear it if needed
- Clean both the evaporator and the condenser coils
Your role in maintenance primarily involves cleaning the air filter. All other tasks require training and expertise and should be left to an HVAC professional. One wrong move can put your home in danger or, worse, jeopardize the health of person’s in your household.
Avoid Major and Costly Repairs in the Future
As with any other device or appliance, minor repairs today help prevent major ones tomorrow. When you ignore an air conditioner that is in need of a small repair or adjustment, it can likely lead to a big one that will definitely hurt your pockets. While a preventive maintenance agreement might cost you up front, it will pay off in the long run by improving the efficiency of your system, reducing wear and tear, and preventing emergency repair calls.
Lower Your Annual Electricity Bill
When it comes to your HVAC system, saving money is the name of the game, since it accounts for a lot of your monthly energy costs. Preventive maintenance helps your air conditioner run more efficiently, which leads to savings when you receive your electricity bill in the mail. In fact, with proper energy-saving techniques and observing a proper maintenance schedule, you can save five to fifteen percent on your utility bill each month.
Ensure Your Family’s Safety
Your HVAC system has many electrical components. If your system isn’t thoroughly inspected by a professional HVAC contractor at least once a year, you could miss faulty connections or wiring problems which could result in damage to your system or home. A loose wire or electrical fitting could also lead to a house fire, which can also put your loved ones in danger. Is that worth the few dollars you might save today?
Extend Your HVAC System’s Life
When you have an HVAC system that operates more efficiently and is consistently taken care of year after year, you prolong its lifespan. This, also, helps you to save money by not having to replace your HVAC system earlier than necessary.
Coastal Heating & Air Conditioning Co., Inc. has been providing HVAC services to the area for more than 40 years. We have the expertise and experience to keep your air conditioning system in top condition for your comfort. For more information about how to properly maintain your air conditioner, or to learn about more of the benefits a maintenance agreement offers, check out our maintenance page or contact us at 410-909-0110.
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