What Happens If I Don’t Follow AC Maintenance Recommendations?

Ignoring AC maintenance recommendations is a bad idea. Air conditioning specialists suggest having your system inspected, cleaned, adjusted and, if necessary, repaired annually to avoid problems. Your AC unit works hard to provide cool air, especially during the warmer months. It’s best to schedule routine air conditioning service before the heat sets in. If you don’t get AC maintenance before then, it increases the risk of the following issues:

Reduced Efficiency/Higher Energy Bills

Without regular care, reduced AC efficiency is a sure bet. The issues a technician would address can cause a unit to work harder, which uses more energy and raises utility bills. Professionals in the HVAC industry have estimated that efficiency can decrease up to 5% each year you skip AC maintenance. This means the unit will become increasingly more expensive to operate.

More AC Repairs

A lack of maintenance can lead to more frequent breakdowns, emergency calls, and repairs. These cost you money each time, not just to repair/replace worn components But also the cost of labor and other service fees. 

System cleanings, adjustments, and minor fixes help resolve issues rather than let them worsen over time. With a well-maintained unit, you can avoid most of the repairs you’d otherwise need. And, rather than spending money to fix your AC, you can save it for a home improvement or a vacation.

Shorter AC Lifespan

In addition to frequent repairs, skipping maintenance can lead to breakdowns that require replacing the unit much sooner. The more parts that wear out, the more inefficient the unit will become. Eventually, the entire system wears out prematurely. An AC with no maintenance may last 7 or 8 years. If well-maintained, it can last 10 to 15 years or longer, so you spend much less on AC equipment over time.

Decreased Cooling Performance

Long before an unmaintained air conditioner fails, it will continue running but become less effective at cooling your home. You might have to keep setting the thermostat lower to stay comfortable. Eventually, cold air may be hard to come by and the AC starts blowing warm air no matter the setting. Or, the temperature may fluctuate randomly and some rooms may be chilly while others are warm. These issues can occur for various reasons; AC maintenance usually prevents them.

Poor Indoor Air Quality 

Dirty air is another reason HVAC maintenance is necessary. Without routine service, your AC can get dirty quickly. Regular service includes cleaning various components so dust, dirt, and other pollutants don’t get into the air. Once they do, these can circulate throughout your home again and again. 

The contaminants in your airflow can include pollen, dust mites, chemicals from cleaning products, smoke, and volatile organic compounds from carpets, furniture, and other items. A lack of AC maintenance can also prevent the system from removing moisture, so increased humidity contributes to indoor air quality concerns, leading to anything from discomfort to allowing mold and germs to thrive.

Improved air quality is certainly a reason to follow your HVAC contractor’s recommendations. However, it must also be addressed between maintenance visits with the following:

• Replace air filters every 1 to 3 months
• Vacuum dust and pet dander regularly
• Open kitchen and bathroom vents
• Open windows to let a fresh breeze in
• Choose natural cleaning products

Clogged Air Filters

A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and cause your AC to shut down. Changing or cleaning the filter, depending on the type, is one of the easiest AC maintenance tasks you can do. It is also among the most beneficial. 

A dirty filter not only increases strain on components, but the impacts of reduced airflow and performance can cause the coil to freeze, leading to melting water that can damage your AC and home. Other risks include mold, an overheated compressor, and broken coils.

Water Leaks

If the drain line becomes blocked, moisture the system has removed can back up and leak around your air conditioner. Water can damage your AC, furnishings, flooring, and the underlying framing. Fixing water damage is often expensive. It can also lead to extensive mold problems. Flushing the drain line and cleaning the drain pan doesn’t take long and can save you lots of time and money.

Refrigerant Leaks

If a hissing noise or chemical smell accompanies reduced AC performance, a refrigerant leak is likely. The leak will reduce refrigerant levels until the system can’t absorb heat and transfer it out of your home. It may also expose you to a toxic substance that can cause:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Breathing issues
• Loss of consciousness 
• Death 

Therefore, AC maintenance can save your life.

Dirty Air Ducts

Once dirt gets into air ducts, it can stick to surfaces, increasing friction and reducing airflow. Or, it can get blown around. Dust can collect on vents and blow into rooms, where it can be inhaled, settle on surfaces, or get sucked back into your HVAC system via return vents. 

Whistling noises are a sign of dirty air ducts. You’ll need a professional duct cleaning to address the problem. Otherwise, serious damage to the system can occur. Regular maintenance helps protect your ductwork and keep it clean.

Voided Warranty

Chances are, your AC manufacturer requires professional maintenance as part of its warranty terms. Skipping even one maintenance visit can void the warranty. You won’t realize the hassle this can cause until you have to pay out of pocket for a major AC repair. The cost of following AC maintenance recommendations is far less than dealing with this situation.

Schedule AC Maintenance with Trio Heating & Air

If you live in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, you can trust Trio Heating & Air for high-quality annual AC maintenance. Our licensed professionals follow a detailed process to increase efficiency, equipment lifespan, and indoor air quality. Just a small investment each year ensures your comfort all season. From filter replacement to air duct cleaning, we can handle any maintenance task and ensure you get the most out of your cooling system. To schedule air conditioning maintenance, book service online or call (415) 223-5615 today.