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How Often Should I Service My Air Conditioner?

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Like many appliances in your home, your air conditioner usually goes unnoticed until it stops working. As we continue to serve the Salt Lake Valley, we are running into more and more homeowners who are confused about adequately maintaining their air conditioners. One of the most common questions is, “How often should I service my air conditioner?” As a good rule of thumb, we suggest that a professional maintain your air conditioner or central air unit at least once a year. This minor yearly cost pays itself by keeping your machines energy efficient and adding years to your A/C lifespan.

What will an HVAC technician maintain and inspect

  • Cleaning of the unit. This includes replacing your filters and clearing the unit of dust and debris internally and externally.
  • Checks for leaks. This can include refrigerant leaks and any air leaks in the ductwork.
  • Measure your coolant levels and refill if necessary.
  • Tighten all connections and oil any moving parts.
  • Look at your thermostat to make sure it is programmed and functioning correctly.
  • Diagnose and address any potential concern with advice and options on how to fix the issue.

Things you can do to maintain your unit in between maintenance periods.

The most important thing to upkeep with your air conditioner is to change the filter in your home. We recommend doing this once every 90 days, but even more frequently if you live in a dusty area. We also encourage you to clean your outside condenser unit. This can be done relatively quickly with a garden hose and towel.

Make sure that you keep grass, plants, and shrubs that surround the unit in check. Giving your outside unit at least two feet of clearance in every direction is optimal. Keeping the condenser in the shade is a great idea, especially during hours of operation. An awning or even an outdoor umbrella is handy for keeping your unit as cool as possible during the hot summer days.

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