How Often Should I Service My Air Conditioner?

Posted by Spencer | September 5, 2023 | Reading Time:

Most air conditioners have a lifespan of about 15 years. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure you get the best efficiency for the longest time with your cooling system. Still, you might wonder, "How often should I service my air conditioner?"

Rainforest Plumbing & Air is one of the top companies to call when someone needs an AC tune-up in Phoenix, AZ. As a top-rated HVAC company, our technicians know maintenance's important role in any cooling system. Here, we explain what you should know about air conditioner servicing.

Typical Frequency for AC Servicing

The short answer to, "How often should I service my air conditioner?" is twice yearly. Annual AC services from a qualified HVAC company ensure that your system is clean, has the correct calibrations, and doesn't have damaged or defective parts. Your cooling unit will operate more efficiently without needing to consume excessive energy.

A professional AC tune-up involves many steps to ensure that your system is ready for the hot summer months. For example, the technician will clean and lubricate moving parts inside the air conditioner to minimize wear and tear due to friction. The worker will also:

Check electrical connections
Ensure the system has enough airflow
Assess the refrigerant levels
Make necessary repairs
Replace damaged or defective parts

When To Book Maintenance Services

Booking professional air conditioner services in the summer might seem like the right thing to do, but it isn't. Summertime is incredibly busy for air conditioning experts, so it's hard to get appointments. Without proper maintenance, you risk your cooling system breaking down when you need it the most and not getting an appointment fast enough to fix it.

Spring is the best time for an AC tune-up. AC experts are less busy, and they can ensure your system is ready to tackle the summer heat. You'll be less likely to experience a system breakdown or need additional AC repairs.

You can also book an AC tune-up in the fall to address any problem the unit develops after running all summer. Still, HVAC companies are more likely to focus on furnaces and heating systems than air conditioners.

Reasons To Get Your Air Conditioner Serviced Through Professional Maintenance Plans

Many HVAC companies that offer AC tune-ups offer maintenance plans for customers to join. A maintenance plan has a specific price customers will pay to receive maintenance services for their air conditioners. These plans usually offer annual inspections, tune-ups, and these benefits.

Savings

Though you would pay a set price to join an HVAC maintenance plan, many companies give discounted rates to plan members. You could refrain from signing up for a maintenance plan and book services as needed, but you might have to pay a higher price. Sometimes, customers can get discounts on replacement parts and accessories like dehumidifiers or air purification systems.

Priority Service

When you're not part of a maintenance plan, your maintenance appointment will depend on the HVAC technician's availability. Plan members may get priority service. That means you'll be at the top of the list for maintenance services.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

As a maintenance plan member, you can be confident your air conditioner will receive the care it needs on time, every time. You won't have to remember to schedule an annual tune-up or inspection because you'll already be on the company's list.

Tips To Keep Maintain Your AC System Between Service Appointments

Booking AC servicing twice a year is a great way to keep your system functional. Still, you can play an active role in your cooling unit's performance with these maintenance tips:

Change the Filter: The AC air filter can get dirty over time from the airborne debris and contaminants it collects. Change the filter at least once every 90 days.
Clean Condensate Drain: Flush the condensate drain with a cup of vinegar each season to keep algae, mold, and gunk from growing inside the drain.
Keep the Condenser Unit Area Clean: Give your condenser unit about five feet of clearance on each side to ensure maximum airflow.

Get Excellent Maintenance for Your AC System Today

If you're asking yourself, "How often should I service my air conditioner?" or noticing your air conditioner can't keep up on hot days, give our HVAC professionals at Rainforest Plumbing & Air a call. We have almost 25 years of experience providing reliable air conditioning repairs, installations, and tune-ups for customers throughout the Phoenix, AZ, area.

We pride ourselves in providing reliable, professional services with special discounts and payment plans to accommodate any budget. Call our licensed and insured company today at 480-360-5278 and experience our five-star service firsthand.

Author Bio:
Ike Tippetts

He founded the company and soon found himself answering phones and dispatching team members around the clock! Rainforest Plumbing & Air has come a long way since they started in 1999 as a two-truck operation.