Tips for Preventing Air Conditioner Emergencies

There is nothing that could be worse than your air conditioning system breaking down in the middle of summer when the temperature is more than 95 degrees. The best thing that you could ever do is to try and prevent this type of tragedy; you want to ensure that you air conditioner is properly maintained so that it operates optimally for as long as possible and possibly getting a new AC unit before you find yourself in an air conditioner emergency. By carefully working with an air conditioner contractor who will help you to keep your unit in top shape, you will also know when it is time to replace your air conditioner so as to avoid any emergencies.

Homeowner maintenance: When it comes to matters of maintenance, there is no difference between you r AC unit and your car. Both are able to operate more efficiently and have a longer lifespan when they are maintained regularly. While you may not be an AC repair contractor, as a homeowner you should be able to regularly check on the air filters and ensure that they are cleaned or changed as need may arise. It is an open secret that dirty filters end up clogging the system and are among the most common reasons for many air conditioner emergencies.

Expert maintenance: While you may have a perfect maintenance plan for your HVAC system or a home warranty that provides for annual inspection, it is important that you ensure the unit is actually examined at least once annually by an expert. When this is done, the beginning of minute leaks or several other problems can be arrested before the unit decides to die during the peak of summer. There are a number of moving parts that are vital for the proper functioning of the HVAC system that an AC repair contractor will be able to examine; this is in addition to the thermostat and all electrical connections. The contractor will also carefully examine the condenser oil and ensure that it is cleaned where necessary in addition to lubricating all the moving parts.

When to replace: The most obvious indication that it is time for a new AC installation is the age of your unit; if it has clocked at least ten years, you can be sure that it has done its most useful service. However, with careful observation, you may discover other pieces of evidence to show that you had better do something. If you have started seen a surge of your electricity bills in the recent past without a very clear explanation, it is an indication that your AC system is not as efficient as it was in the past and it needs to be replaced.