What To Include in Your Annual AC Maintenance Checklist

Summer temperatures in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area have been heating up in recent years, which means you need a reliable air conditioning system to keep you cool. Using a thorough annual AC maintenance checklist is one way to protect your investment and ensure reliable comfort.

The experts at Trio Heating, Air, and Plumbing provide reliable AC maintenance services to customers in the Bay Area. Explore some tips to help you keep an AC maintenance checklist that you can use every season.

Why Annual AC Maintenance Matters

Routine AC maintenance is important for many reasons. Here’s why sticking to a regular HVAC maintenance schedule matters.

Improves Energy Efficiency

A well-maintained AC system runs smoothly with good airflow, which helps it operate more efficiently. Not only is this great for your air conditioner, but it’s also better for the environment. Plus, when your AC runs efficiently, it helps you save money on your monthly energy bills.

Better Indoor Air Quality

Clean air filters and components don’t just help to preserve your AC system. This simple maintenance task also improves the air quality in your home by preventing airborne particles and contaminants from getting into the air. When your AC is free of dust and debris, the indoor air is much cleaner, keeping you and your family healthy.

Prevents Costly Repairs

Annual maintenance is one of the most effective ways to prevent AC breakdowns. A thorough inspection performed by the experienced team at Trio can pinpoint minor problems early and get them repaired. The sooner you identify and correct less urgent issues, the less chance they’ll turn into costly repairs or a full system breakdown.

What Happens if You Skip AC Maintenance?

You might be tempted to skip AC maintenance to save time and money, but it can lead to a variety of issues. Some risks of skipping your AC maintenance routine include:

• System runs less efficiently: A poorly maintained AC system won’t run as efficiently as it should, which may lead to higher energy bills during the summer.

• Potential breakdowns: Without annual AC maintenance service, your system runs the risk of breaking down, forcing you to schedule an emergency repair.

• Shorter lifespan: Regular maintenance extends the service life of your system, and without it, you run the risk of having to pay for a full system replacement.

• Voided warranty: Many air conditioner brands require you to schedule regular maintenance to keep the warranty active and valid.

Complete AC Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners

Following an air conditioner maintenance checklist is a smart way to make sure your system gets the routine care it needs. Consider these helpful AC tune-up tips to get the most out of your air conditioner:

• Check and replace filters: Replace your AC filter every 30 to 90 days. Checking the filter for debris and dirt regularly and changing it as needed is the best way to support good airflow and energy efficiency.

• Clean the indoor unit: Clean your indoor unit, including the evaporator coil, with a soft, clean cloth to prevent excess buildup.

• Monitor the thermostat: Make sure your thermostat’s temperature matches the temperature inside your home. If it doesn’t, you may need an inspection or repair.

• Clean the condenser unit: Clean your outdoor condenser unit and remove debris from the surrounding area to protect it from damage.

• Inspect the insulation: Insulation around the AC’s copper piping maintains thermal efficiency. If it’s damaged or missing and needs to be replaced, contact Trio right away.

• Schedule routine maintenance: The best way to protect your air conditioner is to schedule maintenance performed by professionals at least once a year.

How AC Tune-Ups Improve Performance and Efficiency

One of the biggest benefits of AC maintenance, including tune-ups, is improved performance and efficiency. Tune-ups help your system perform as efficiently as possible in the following ways.

Keeps Important Components Clean

A routine tune-up includes cleaning major components like the evaporator coil. Keeping these parts clean preserves lifespan and supports better airflow for a more efficient system.

Monitors Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant leaks and low refrigerant levels are a common cause of AC malfunction. A routine inspection and tune-up lets you know if your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant. If levels are low, a technician will refill the refrigerant to keep the system running smoothly.

Ensures Maximum Efficiency

The best way to achieve AC efficiency improvement is with routine professional maintenance. From lubricating components and cleaning or changing the air filter to monitoring refrigerant levels, an annual AC tune-up gives your system the care it needs to run as reliably as possible when temperatures climb.

The Benefits of Professional AC Maintenance Services

Scheduling professional AC maintenance services comes with a range of benefits that make getting these services well worth the cost:

• Peace of mind: Professional AC maintenance gives you peace of mind knowing you’re protecting your investment and helps you receive reliable cooling all summer long.

• Addresses issues early: Maintenance performed by an experienced HVAC technician is the best way to identify and address minor issues early before they turn into expensive and stressful repairs.

• Keeps indoor air clean: Professional maintenance keeps the air inside your home clean thanks to regular filter changes and cleaning of important components that could lead to dirty indoor air if clogged or blocked.

• Helps maintain property resale value: When your AC is well-maintained, it protects not just the value of your system, but also the value of your home as a whole.

When To Consider Replacing Your AC Unit

While routine maintenance is key to keeping your AC running smoothly, there are times when you’ll need a replacement. Look for these signs indicating the need for AC maintenance or replacement:

• System age: Air conditioners that are 10 to 15 years old or older may be near the end of their lifespan, and a replacement could be a better option.

• Frequent repairs: If you’re paying for frequent repairs, it might be more cost-effective to upgrade to a new AC unit.

• High energy bills: When your summer energy bills suddenly skyrocket, there’s a good chance it’s related to a failing or malfunctioning AC system.

• Loud noises: Unusual noises or vibrations coming from your AC unit are a sign that something is wrong, and a full replacement may be recommended.

Contact Trio for Your Annual AC Maintenance

If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area, annual maintenance is the best way to protect your system and keep you cool. The experts at Trio Heating, Air, and Plumbing proudly provide professional maintenance services for optimum performance. Contact us today to schedule your annual AC maintenance service!