Air conditioning maintenance is about more than making sure your system turns on and runs in the spring. It’s about testing and optimizing to make sure it will be capable of handling the brutal heat and humidity that’s coming. Here’s what you need to know about AC maintenance to get quality service that ensures your air conditioner is ready for summer.
How maintenance preps your AC to survive the next heat wave
We have had some warm days this spring, so chances are you have already used your air conditioning. However, just because it seemed ok when you started it up in the spring doesn’t mean it will be able to handle months of continuous high heat and humidity.
Preventative maintenance service preps your system to be ready for the worst conditions summer has to offer. By cleaning the components, replacing filters, lubricating moving parts, testing all aspects of the system, and inspecting the condition of parts and replacing anything worn, maintenance service optimizes your system so it’s in the best possible condition.
Learn more:
7 Signs You Need AC System Maintenance
BONUS: Maintenance also helps your system last longer and use less electricity.
Even if you’re already using your AC, it’s not too late to get preventive maintenance service this season. However, not all maintenance service is the same. Here’s how to get quality service so you can be sure your air conditioner is ready for summer.
Choose quality AC maintenance with this checklist
Here is a list of tasks that should be completed in a spring AC preventative maintenance visit. Before hiring a service provider, make sure these tasks are included.
- Check overall condition of equipment and review log readings
- Clean or replace filters
- Clean and test condenser and evaporator coils
- Clean drain lines for proper flow and clear clogs
- Clear drain pans of any standing water to avoid overflows
- Replace worn pulleys and belts
- Inspect ducts for mold, dust, and debris
- Observe humidity levels
- Check refrigerant charge and test for leaks
- Test thermostats and controls to make sure temperatures and timer functions are correctly set
- Change thermostat batteries
- Check electrical system and tighten loose connections
- Test blower motors and fan blades for proper airflow
- Lubricate pumps, motors bearings and moving parts
- Inspect cabinet for leaks and check cabinet door for secure closure
- Check for debris around outside unit
HOW TO SPOT POOR SERVICE: Completing all these tasks takes time, especially for a large or complex system. That’s why a lowball price is a sure sign of subpar service. If the price for service seems too good to be true, do the math: divide the price by the company’s hourly rate. Now divide that by the number of visits, and again by the number of equipment items. That’s how much time the company plans to spend on each equipment item. You might find that this low bidder will spend less than 5 minutes on each piece of equipment.
The service agreement matters, too
An AC service agreement should be customized according to your equipment, your space, and your budget. You might need service twice a year, or more often depending on your usage and conditions. You can get different levels of coverage that may include parts and/or labor for repairs. Many service agreements also include priority emergency service if needed, which can be a major bonus during a heat wave. Most importantly, the contract should spell out what’s included and not included in terms that are easy to understand.
Learn more:
HVAC Service Contract Pricing Guide
Get your air conditioner ready for summer in NYC: call Arista now
NYC businesses and luxury homeowners trust Arista to keep their air conditioning systems in peak condition and working reliably all summer long. As experts in air conditioning service for all brands and system types, our goal is to partner with you to keep your equipment performing at its best for years to come. You’ll get fair pricing, and have trained and certified professionals to care for your equipment, diagnose problems, and perform reliable repairs.
Stop worrying about your AC: call Arista now.
