AC maintenance

An AC's upkeep can be priced in several ways, depending on a few factors. The first is age: an older AC might need more repairs and maintenance, which could amount to a higher price. The second is size: a larger AC might cost more to maintain. The third is regularity: an AC that is regularly checked and cleaned could cost less to maintain because it's not trying to function under hidden, stress-inducing conditions. On the other hand, if an AC does have a problem and has to be worked on, just how much is that going to amount to? $75-$200 every year seems to be a good spread to work from.

In Florida, it's ideal to have your air conditioning serviced at least biannually. This is due to the intense heat and humidity that make your AC work overtime. Servicing in the spring and fall ensures peak performance when the weather truly tests your system. It's a way to catch small issues on the cusp of becoming major repairs and also to keep everything in the system running in the way you want it.

Air conditioning service costs can vary based on several factors. These include:- your location,- the size of your unit,- the kind of service you require.On average, you can such expect pay:- **Maintenance check:** $75 to $200 (annually desired)- **Repair service (if needed):** likely much more than above.

The HVAC industry has different ways of doing business. Every company has different price points, and where you live can also affect pricing. Here's a look at what you might be charged to keep your HVAC system in peak condition:-Simple tune-up: $100-$150-Cleaning and inspection: $100-$150-Checking for and repairing leaks: $100-$150-Making sure everything is running smoothly: Priceless (but likely costs $100-$150). In total, for everything I've mentioned above, you're probably looking at paying, on average, about $600. And that assumes your system is in pretty decent shape to begin with.

If your AC needs work, it will give you some signs. First, and most importantly, it will blow warm air instead of cold. If it's struggling to work at all, the warm air will be a big clue, but listen for any strange or alarming sounds. If your AC tries too hard, it may make some noise. Altogether now, if we're counting signs, listen for sounds that might cause the hair on the back of your neck to stand up. Or just pay serious attention if your brain tells you to listen when the AC sounds off.Also, dampness. If it seems muggy or super humid in your room and you're not getting hit with the cold that fulfills the AC's dehumidifying contract, things are not working right. Similarly, if your energy bills have taken a prominent vertical leap recently, this means something is up and that your AC is possibly the culprit.

An air conditioner's average lifespan is around 10 to 15 years, but its longevity depends largely on how well you take care of it. nnRegular maintenance can help it last longer.nn nnIf you do maintenance like filtering and checkups regularly and if you perform them effectively,nnyour air conditioner might last another year or so beyond its expected lifespan.nnnMoreover,nnIf you live in a place that's hot and/or humid and/or an area where electrical storms happen with considerable frequency (like just about anywhere in Florida),nnyour air conditioner might not last nearly as long.nnnIf you hear unfamiliar noises or if it fails to cool properly,nnyou might want to start considering a replacement. (That's a good checkup tip, by the way.)

At minimum, your AC should receive a thorough cleaning once a year. This is essential not just for optimal operation, but also for the longevity of the unit. If you run your AC daily, in particular during the summer months, a semiannual cleaning might be worth your while. The main components of an AC that need cleaning are the filters and coils. If these are allowed to get dirty, they can cause the AC to 'breath hot'—that is, not cool the air that's blown out and not exhaust the hot air that's been drawn inside. Consult your AC manual for more information on its specific cleaning regimen.

To verify that the AC is cooling properly, start with the thermostat to a cooler temperature than the current room temperature. Give it some time, around five minutes or so, and then feel the air coming out of the vents. You should be able to tell right off the bat if it's operating correctly or not. If the air is warm or weak coming out of the vents, that's not normal.Also, feel free to check the thermostat display. It should match the actual room temperature. If the display is reading some cool temp when the room is obviously warm, you've found another potential problem area.While you're working through this troubleshooting, you should also check the filters near the unit. If the filters are dirty or close to it, that can definitely hinder the performance of a unit. You shouldn't hear strange noises coming from it either, like rattling or buzzing. These noises could mean the unit is in distress.And lastly, is there water dripping from the unit outside? If there is, that's generally a good sign. If the water is just kind of dripping and not spraying everywhere, then the unit is probably doing what it's supposed to do.

There are several good reasons to replace an air conditioning unit that is 20 years old or more. For one, such models tend to be energy hogs that drive up the cost of the monthly electric bill. In contrast, newer ac models are usually much more efficient and can save a good deal of money over time, besides being better for the environment. And consider repair issues. If the old unit has needed replacement parts and extensive work on it done often in the last few years, then it might make a lot more sense just to get a new unit than to keep sinking good money into an old machine. Finally, old ac units work a lot less effectively, and replacement with a new model could make a major difference in cooling efficiency and a comfortable atmosphere in the home.

To maintain your air conditioner yourself, begin by ensuring that the power is turned off to avoid any safety issues.Then, clean or substitute the air filter. A clean filter lets the AC run better.Next, remove any debris surrounding the outside unit and carefully clean the coils with a light spray from a hose to wash away any accumulated dirt.Inspect the unit's fins, and if any are bent, use a fin comb to straighten them.Ensure the drain line is unobstructed to prevent clogs by clearing it with a vinegar and water solution.Finally, verify that the coolant level is adequate. If the coolant is at a dangerously low level, this task might be best left to a professional.Routine upkeep keeps your air conditioner functioning well and keeps it around for the long haul.