A/C Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

Aug 1, 2024

Ensuring the routine maintenance of your HVAC system is essential for increasing its longevity and optimal functioning. At Grove City Heating & Air, we believe regular upkeep of your air conditioning unit is crucial for its overall health. Homeownership comes with many responsibilities, but taking care of your HVAC system should be at the top of your list. When you maintain your system, it will reward you with reliable performance in the long run. 

Why Should You Practice Preventative Maintenance?   

Your A/C system endures heavy usage, especially during the summer months. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent unexpected HVAC failures and avoid costly repairs. Here’s a look at why preventative maintenance should be a key part of your A/C care routine.  

Keeping up with your AC maintenance can help to reduce your environmental footprint.
  1. Reducing Environmental Impact: Keeping your HVAC system in optimal condition ensures it uses less energy, thereby reducing its carbon footprint and ultimately helping the environment. 
  1. Saving Money: Routine maintenance checks can prevent emergency repairs, saving you money in the long run.  
  1. Enhancing Performance: An HVAC system that receives regular maintenance operates at peak efficiency, providing superior cooling while consuming less power. This is great news for your monthly energy bills. 
  1. Extending AC Lifespan: Regular checks and inspections contribute to a longer lifespan for your unit, setting your AC up for long-term success. 
  1. Promoting Safety: Annual A/C servicing can identify and prevent potential safety hazards, ensuring your unit meets current safety regulations each year. 
  1. Preserving Warranty: Many manufacturers require annual maintenance to honor warranty claims, so routine checks can keep your warranty intact, which is quite beneficial. 
  1. Improving Indoor Air Quality: HVAC systems play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy and comfortable ambiance in your home by addressing air quality concerns. 

Top Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know   

  • Regularly Replace A/C Air Filters: Consistently replacing your A/C’s air filters is one of the simplest yet most effective steps to enhance performance. Dirty or clogged filters can hinder airflow, forcing your unit to work harder and potentially leading to decreased efficiency and system breakdowns. 
  • Clean Your A/C Condenser Coils: Dirt buildup on your A/C condenser coils can impair performance. If you notice the coils need cleaning, use a gentle setting on your garden hose to clean them thoroughly. 
  • Check and Clean the Drain Line: AC drain lines are designed to remove excess moisture from the system but can get clogged by algae or mold. Regularly (every few months) pour a mix of water and bleach into the drain line to keep it clear, preventing blockages that could cause water damage or other issues. 
Homeowners should include checking their drain line periodically as a part of their A/C maintenance routine.
  • Monitor Your Thermostat: Your thermostat is the “brains” of your HVAC system. If it’s not functioning correctly, neither will your HVAC units. Regularly check your thermostat to ensure it is working properly. 
  • Inspect Your Ductwork: Frequently inspect your ductwork for potential leaks or damage. Sealing air leaks can significantly boost energy efficiency, and insulating your ductwork can prevent energy wastage while enhancing your AC’s overall performance. 
  • Maintain Clearance Around Your Outdoor A/C Unit: Make sure there is at least 2-3 feet of clearance around your A/C unit at all times to avoid airflow obstructions and safety issues.  

Despite your DIY capabilities, there are still certain tasks best entrusted to licensed HVAC professionals like Grove City Heating & Air. Our expert technicians are ready to perform regular or annual maintenance checks, ensuring your HVAC system operates at peak efficiency. 

Regular AC maintenance is important to keep your AC running smoothly for years to come.

Remember, proactive maintenance is not just about ensuring your comfort; it’s a smart investment to extend the lifespan of your HVAC equipment. For all your HVAC-related needs, contact Grove City Heating & Air today at (614) 490-7540, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here