Regular AC maintenance includes inspecting and cleaning the equipment and system components. While it is important to schedule maintenance, repairs are considered additional services. Regular maintenance allows your HVAC technician to catch potential problems early, prevent breakdowns, and make recommendations for repairs. To minimize the need for repairs, consider scheduling a Service twice a year. Read on to learn how to get the most out of your HVAC maintenance. Listed below are some of the most common repairs and how to minimize them.
Refrigerant leaks
There are two main types of refrigerant leaks: combination dependent and vibration dependent. These leaks are caused by the refrigerant piping rubbing against other parts of the system. When these leaks occur, the refrigerant will leak indoors. This can be a health hazard and needs to be addressed as soon as possible. There are many ways to detect refrigerant leaks, and a qualified AC repair company can do it safely and quickly.
Older air conditioning systems are often affected by refrigerant leaks. The air conditioner’s indoor evaporator coil absorbs the heat from the indoor environment and sends it outdoors. This part of the system is sometimes clogged with water. A vacuum cleaner can help remove this blockage. If this is not an option, call a professional to check the system. Once the refrigerant leak is found, a professional can fix it.
Air filter replacement
Regular air filter replacement will keep your AC system running at its optimal efficiency, saving you money on electricity. You can either perform the task yourself or hire a professional service. The professional will be able to find the right filter at an affordable price and ensure proper installation. To replace your air filter, follow these steps. Once you have changed the filter, make sure that you turn off the HVAC system and let it cool down before continuing.
If you’ve noticed an increase in your energy bills, check the air filter in your air conditioner. If it’s dirty, your AC will work harder than usual and may even raise your energy bill. Moreover, a dirty filter can cause your system to run inefficiently or cause indoor air quality issues. You can also check the air filter if you’ve experienced any respiratory issues, such as coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing.
Air Duct cleaning
When doing an AC repair, one of the first steps should be to check the air ducts. These air ducts are central to the functioning of the HVAC system, but they are often neglected. Over time, they can get filled with dust, debris, and other pollutants. When you let them go for a while, they will begin to malfunction and will need to be cleaned more often. The good news is that it is possible to have them cleaned by a certified HVAC contractor.
In order to clean the air ducts, a professional HVAC contractor must seal off each section of ductwork and then use a high-powered vacuum to remove the debris. In some cases, there may be mold in the ductwork, in which case a professional will use a special sanitizer to remove the spores and traces of the growth. To prevent this, the supply and return registers should be sealed to prevent debris from reentering the system.
Choosing between repair and replacement
There are many things to consider when deciding between repair and replacement. Depending on the situation, repair may be less expensive up front, but a replacement may save you money over time. For example, you might save hundreds of dollars over the life of a replacement versus thousands of dollars for a repair. Energy efficiency is another important factor to consider when deciding between repair and replacement. In some cases, the newer the gadget, the longer the guarantee will last.