Do you think a professional air conditioning tune-up is just a way to separate you from your hard-earned cash? Think again. An AC tune-up offers many benefits and is definitely worth the cost. It will end up saving you money.
Find out how.
Tune-Up vs. Emergency Repair
While you may take your air conditioner for granted, this appliance works hard several months every year. And because your AC is a complex system with many components, it’s important to ensure everything is running smoothly and potential problems are nipped in the bud. Otherwise, you might suddenly find your air conditioner’s not cooling, or maybe your AC unit is leaking outside, and you’re unexpectedly on the hook for an expensive emergency air conditioning repair.
A regular air conditioner tune-up is similar to getting an annual oil change and inspection for your car. Both are a proactive approach instead of the reactive approach of taking action only when forced to by a breakdown. In addition, both provide benefits that far outweigh their cost.
What Is Involved In An Air Conditioner Tune-Up?
Your air conditioner tune-up is a multi-step process. Here are the basic points that your HVAC technician should cover:
- Check and tighten electrical connections.
- Adjust thermostat settings and system controls.
- Clean evaporator and condenser coils. Remove leaves and other yard debris from the outdoor unit.
- Clear condensate drain line of mould and other clogs.
- Check refrigerant level.
- Ensure proper airflow. Clean and adjust the blower motor, belts, and fan. Change filter if required.
- Lubricate all moving parts.
- Straighten any bent fins.
- Troubleshoot and fix potential problems (before they turn into big headaches).
Benefits Of An AC Tune-Up
Save money. Compare the cost of tune-up to emergency AC repair or air conditioner replacement. The difference might surprise you — it can come to hundreds or even thousands of dollars!
Save energy. Without maintenance, your air conditioner’s efficiency declines every year. A proper tune-up will prevent this problem, maintaining AC energy efficiency and reducing your electric bill.
Improve indoor air quality. Are you noticing musty air conditioner smells? Dust and mould in your home’s air are unhealthy and even dangerous, especially if you or someone in your household is part of the 27.3% of Canadians who suffer from allergies. Having your air conditioner professionally cleaned will reduce contaminants and improve indoor air quality.
Receive priority service. Whether you’re looking to prep your cooling system in spring or to schedule repair, you’ll get priority service when you have an HVAC protection plan.
Keep your warranty valid. Many air conditioner warranties are conditional on regular maintenance of your A/C system by a qualified professional. Don’t accidentally void your warranty — call for a tune-up.
Stay cool and relax. You’ll enjoy the summer more when your home is comfortably air-conditioned. You’ll also enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your AC is in top shape.
How Often Do I Need An AC Tune-Up?
Generally, AC tune-up is recommended once a year. Spring is the ideal time — technicians are less busy then than in the middle of an Ottawa summer heatwave.
You might need to get a tune-up more often depending on:
How much you use your air conditioner. If you are out of the house at work for long hours every day — or you’re away at the cottage most of the summer — your air conditioner will get less use than if you are working from home. Air conditioning that is set to the max 24 hours a day will likely need more frequent service.
Age of your system. Air conditioners typically last 15-20 years. As it moves toward the upper age limit, it will tend to need more TLC.
An AC Tune-Up is a good start to make sure your unit is ready to work all summer. Here are 8 more things you should do before turning on your AC after the winter.
Count On Us To Take Great Care Of Your Air Conditioner
Ottawa Home Services are experts at air conditioner service and repair. Save money with our regular tune ups, just like this client does:
I have been using OHS for my HVAC needs since 2004. To this day, I am impressed with their prompt response to all my furnace and AC needs. If I have a question, the office staff always do the very best to address my inquiries.
I also have benefited from the Maintenance Program, which has cost savings to my advantage. I receive annual reminders about my maintenance coming due, and an appointment is booked for service. My unit records are kept on my file for history reports and suggestions and/or advice on upgrades as they age. Most importantly, this gives me the peace of mind to know I will receive priority service in the event of emergency issues with my units.
Once again, thank you for your great work and professionalism with your customers.
Christine B, on Google Reviews
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