As the temperatures continue to rise in the summer, you’re probably tempted to turn down your air conditioning system. While it can make your home cooler, it can also cause a huge increase in your energy bill.

If you want to keep your energy bills at bay in the long run, consider investing in summer HVAC maintenance. By having your AC unit serviced in the summer, you can enjoy the perks of lower bills due to an energy-efficient system without compromising your comfort.

Take a look at the benefits of regular HVAC maintenance as well as HVAC maintenance tips for the summer season. Then, you’ll be able to relax in a nice, cool home during the summer without putting stress on your wallet.

6 Benefits of Regular AC Maintenance

The easiest way to ensure that your air conditioning system is running properly is to have it serviced by an HVAC technician. A technician will check for and repair any small underlying issues that can quickly cause a bigger problem. This helps the AC unit run more smoothly as the temperature rises.

You might be thinking that maintenance is a waste of money. But, imagine how much more money you’ll spend if your AC breaks down and you need repairs or a replacement.

Annual AC tune-ups in the summer offer you various benefits, including:

1. Increases the Unit’s Lifespan: Regular maintenance prevents small issues from becoming major problems, extending the lifespan of your AC unit and maximizing your investment.
2. Prevents Unexpected Breakdowns: Routine summer maintenance reduces the risk of sudden malfunctions, ensuring reliable performance and continuous comfort during the hottest days.
3. Improves the Unit’s Energy Efficiency: Maintenance tasks like cleaning filters and checking refrigerant levels keep your AC running efficiently, lowering energy bills and reducing your environmental impact.
4. Enhances Indoor Air Quality: During AC maintenance, technicians will replace air filters, which helps remove dust, allergens, and other pollutants from the air. This improves your home’s air quality, enhancing your comfort.
5. Ensures Optimal Cooling Performance: Technicians can calibrate your AC unit so that it provides consistent and effective cooling. So, if the temperature gets really hot outside, your home will remain the temperature you set it at.
6. Maintains Your Unit’s Manufacturer Warranty: Many AC manufacturers require regular maintenance to maintain their warranty. By scheduling routine service, you ensure compliance with these terms, protect your warranty coverage, and avoid potential out-of-pocket repair costs.

DIY Summer HVAC Maintenance Tips

There are several things that you are able to do on your own to improve your air conditioner’s efficiency and keep your system running smoothly. If you’re looking for ways to maintain your AC unit’s lifespan, take a look at the following HVAC maintenance tips for summer:

• Replace the Air Filter: Regularly changing or cleaning your AC unit’s air filter is crucial for maintaining optimal airflow and air quality. Dirty filters will restrict airflow, making your unit work harder and less efficiently. Check your air filters every month during the summer and replace or clean them as needed to keep your system running smoothly.
• Clean Up Around Your Unit: Keep the area around your outdoor AC unit free from debris, such as leaves, grass clippings, and branches. Ensure at least two feet of clear space around the unit to allow for proper airflow. Regularly clearing this space helps prevent blockages and keeps your unit operating efficiently.
• Clean the Coils: Your AC’s evaporator and condenser coils can accumulate dirt over time, reducing efficiency. Check these coils at least once a year and clean them as needed. Dirty coils can make the unit overheat and use more energy, so keeping them clean ensures optimal performance.
• Clean the Condensate Drain: Your AC unit’s condensate drain removes moisture. Over time, dirt and other contaminants can clog the drain, causing water damage. Check the drain for blockages and clean it to ensure proper drainage and prevent any issues.

When to Schedule AC Maintenance

Even if you complete the tasks listed above, it’s beneficial to schedule routine summer HVAC maintenance with a skilled technician. This technician will have access to equipment, tools, and additional resources to keep your air conditioner running smoothly.

During a scheduled maintenance service, a technician will:

• Clean or Replace Your Air Filter
• Check for Fluid Leaks
• Inspect and Test All Major AC Components, including:
  • Blower Motor
  • Indoor & Outdoor Coils
  • Compressor
  • Condenser
  • Evaporator
  • Thermostat
• Lubricate and/or Tighten Components and Connects
• Check for Refrigerant Leaks
• Replace Any Faulty Component

Consider Signing Up for a Maintenance Plan

Consider investing in an HVAC maintenance plan to prevent your air conditioning system from unexpectedly breaking down in the middle of summer. There are many benefits to joining an HVAC maintenance plan, including:

• Free Seasonal Tune-Ups
• Discounted Services
• Priority Service During Emergencies
• Reduced Diagnostic Fee
• Transferable Plan
• And More!

GAC Services offers a comprehensive maintenance plan for homeowners in Gaithersburg, Maryland. When you need reliable and long-lasting air conditioning maintenance services, reach out to our technicians. Contact us today to learn more about our services and maintenance plan or to schedule an appointment.