5 Air Conditioning Repair Tips that Prevent Costly Breakdowns

Why is HVAC maintenance important? The HVAC system works harder than any other appliance in your home. It even works harder than your car. So, it would follow that such a hard-working appliance needs regular air conditioning repair in Los Gatos, CA to keep it running safely and efficiently. The last thing you want is a costly breakdown in the middle of the season when you need it most.

5 Air Conditioning Repair Tips

Here are five basic tips to keep comfort levels high and repair costs low:

1. Pay Attention

For the most part, your heating and cooling system should run unnoticed. It shouldn’t make a lot of noise or cause any significant fluctuations in temperature. It should run smoothly and efficiently with no fuss. You should start to worry the moment you start to notice any rattling, grinding, thumping, or hissing. Odd sounds, odd smells, and any change in performance often mean there is an issue that needs to be addressed. And the longer you put off the call to a professional technician, the worse the problems will get.

2. Replace the Filters

Neglected air filters can cause a slew of problems for the heating and cooling system in the home. More than just clearing the air, these filters keep dust, dirt, and debris out of the mechanical parts of your system. They are a safeguard. And the moment they become clogged you put your comfort and the efficiency of your system at risk. During seasons of peak use, homeowners should be checking their air filters once a month. And when light no longer passes through the filter, it is time to replace it.

3. Clear the Vents

The vents and registers throughout the home are how the HVAC system gathers and disperses air. You might think some are unnecessary, especially in areas of the home you don’t use too often. But blocking off vents and registers would be a mistake. The entire HVAC system is sized to efficiently heat and cool the entire home. Closing registers or blocking them with furniture will make the system unbalanced and cause inefficiency. So make sure all vents and registers are clear and unobstructed.

4. Clean the Outdoor Unit

The very fact that the outdoor unit is outside indicates that it requires a little more attention than those protected by the house. The outdoor unit is exposed to the elements, collecting dirt, dust, leaves, branches, and hard water. It requires monthly maintenance to keep it free of debris and operating and peak efficiency.

5. Schedule a Ductwork Inspection

Every few years you should schedule a ductwork inspection. Professionals come in to test for leaks, blockages, or anything else that might impact airflow and weaken the system. Ducts can also trap pests, dust, and dander. If the home is more than ten years old and never had a duct cleaning, now might be the time to get one on the schedule.

Ultimately, nothing is more important than keeping up your annual air conditioning repair in Los Gatos, CA. These routines checks and tune-ups will keep the system running efficiently. It will also help you stay ahead of most major problems. If you want to avoid costly repairs, it is the best strategy in the long run. Call Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule your annual service today.