How Often Should I Conduct AC Maintenance?

August 17, 2022

Any HVAC technician will tell you that proper and routine maintenance of your air conditioner is key to keeping it running both efficiently and effectively. There aren't many types of home maintenance that are more essential than regular HVAC tune-ups. Still, many first-time homeowners don't know much about how to take care of their system or what that involves. Fortunately, there are resources available that can teach you everything you need to know to ensure that your air conditioning system is in good working order all year long. Keep reading for a breakdown of what tasks should be performed and how often.

How often should you conduct AC maintenance?

There are different types of AC maintenance, but let's start with filter changes. There's no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how often to change your filters, as the frequency with which you should change your HVAC filter will vary depending on a variety of factors, including the type of filter you use, the size of your home, and the number of people living in your home. That said, as a general rule, you should change your HVAC filter every one to three months. If you have pets, you may need to change your filter more often, as pet dander can clog up filters more quickly. Similarly, if you have a lot of dust in your home, you'll also need to change your filter more often.

You should have your HVAC system inspected annually by a qualified technician. An inspection will ensure that your system is running as efficiently as possible, which can save you money on your energy bills. It will also identify any potential problems with your system, which can prevent costly repairs down the road. If you’re due for an HVAC system inspection, be sure to call a technician in your area. They will be able to inspect your system and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.

The lifespan of an HVAC system depends on what type of system it is, how well it is maintained, and the climate where it is used. However, on average, HVAC systems have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. If you're experiencing frequent issues with a system that is over a decade old, it may be time to consider a replacement.

What else can you do to maintain your preferred indoor temperature?

There’s no doubt about it – a smart thermostat is a great investment for any homeowner. By installing a smart thermostat, you can save money on your energy bills and make your home more comfortable. Smart thermostats can be programmed to automatically adjust the temperature of your home based on your schedule and preferences. Additionally, smart thermostats reduce your carbon footprint by making your home more energy-efficient. By using a smart thermostat, you can reduce the amount of energy you use, which in turn will reduce your greenhouse gas emissions.

There are also smaller lifestyle changes that you can make to keep the temperature in your home comfortable, even in the middle of a heatwave. Did you know that blocking out the sun can lower the temperature inside your home during a heat wave? By closing the curtains and shades on your windows, you can keep the sun from shining in and heating up your home. You can also use fans to circulate the air inside your home and keep it cool. You may want to avoid certain appliances, like your stove and your oven, during the hottest parts of the day.

An HVAC system in good working order is necessary if you want to maintain a comfortable indoor environment and avoid costly repairs. The best thing you can do to protect your air conditioner is to change the filter on a monthly basis and have your HVAC unit inspected annually by a trusted HVAC professional. You could also consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to get even more precise control over your indoor climate. No matter what approach you take, you won't regret investing in your comfort and safety at home by conducting proper maintenance on your AC.