Why You Should Maintain Your Air Conditioner

Keep Your Air Conditioner in Top Shape This Summer

Why maintain your air conditioner? It goes without saying that everyone wants to start summer feeling comfortable — and confident that their air conditioner won’t let them down. Professional troubleshooting and regular maintenance can give you that peace of mind by ensuring your cooling system is ready when the heat flares up. Here are a few key reasons to stay on top of air conditioner care.

Maintain Your Air Conditioner — Save Money on Energy Bills

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for about 48% of a typical home’s energy bill. While newer AC units are more energy-efficient, they still make up the largest portion of residential energy use.

If your air conditioner isn’t inspected and serviced regularly, it can drive up your energy costs significantly — requiring more power to deliver the same cooling performance. During a maintenance visit, your HVAC technician will ensure the thermostat is set correctly and the system is operating at peak efficiency.

Common issues include:

• Clogged filters, which force the system to work harder
• Dirty evaporator coils, which reduce your AC’s ability to absorb heat

If your unit is outdated, your contractor may recommend upgrading to a high-efficiency model or one that’s better sized for your home’s cooling needs.

Keep Your Family Healthy

A poorly maintained air conditioner can become a breeding ground for harmful pollutants, allergens, and even bacteria. Dust buildup can contribute to respiratory conditions like asthma, while mold, mildew, and fungi thrive in the dark, damp areas of your HVAC system.

It’s also not uncommon to find dead insects or small animals in outdoor units. If left unchecked, their decomposing remains can contaminate the air you breathe.

The Environmental Protection Agency recommends cleaning your air ducts at least once a year to reduce these risks. With regular HVAC inspections, you can minimize health hazards and maintain better indoor air quality for your entire family.

Extend the Life of Your Air Conditioner

Routine maintenance is a smart investment that helps your AC unit run more efficiently — and last longer. Air conditioners are expensive, so it makes sense to protect your investment by catching small issues before they become big problems.

For example, a minor electrical control failure could lead to a complete breakdown if not addressed in time. During a tune-up, a qualified technician will:

• Check refrigerant levels and test for leaks
• Capture and contain any leaked refrigerant
• Inspect ductwork for leaks and proper airflow
• Verify the electric control sequence
• Calibrate the thermostat

All of these steps can help prevent costly repairs and extend your system’s lifespan.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

In addition to professional service, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines. Understanding those instructions and partnering with a trusted HVAC contractor ensures you’re doing everything you can to keep your system safe, efficient, and long-lasting.

Need Help Maintaining Your Air Conditioner?

Contact the experts at Reids AC & Heat at (281) 351-9922 to schedule a maintenance visit or learn more about how to keep your cooling system running strong all summer long.