Many homeowners take a break-fix approach to their air conditioners. That means that they don’t schedule service until something has gone wrong, such as the AC shutting off in the middle of a heat wave. Let’s explore how you can avoid headaches and save money by taking a more proactive approach.

Seasonal Tune-Ups

HVAC experts recommend scheduling a cooling tune-up every fall. Schedule early enough that your technician has inspected, cleaned, and serviced your equipment before you ever need to run it. A multipoint inspection will reveal any issues. Your technician can correct minor wear and tear and advise preventative repairs that will save you money. The service will also include cleaning components like the evaporator and condenser coils.

There are many excellent reasons to schedule this service. Most HVAC warranties require it. Cleaning parts like the evaporator coil helps increase efficiency, reduce electricity consumption, and lower your costs. Most summertime AC repair issues are avoidable through this maintenance. You’ll extend the life of your equipment. Your system will also age more gracefully. Without seasonal tune-ups, an AC can lose 1% or more of efficiency with every passing year.

AC Filter Management

Filter management is integral to efficient and reliable cooling as well. The first thing to consider is filter quality. A well-made filter that’s as thick as your system allows will cost more up front but save money long term. Another consideration is the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating. The higher the rating, the more effective the filtration.

Most modern AC systems support MERV 13 filters. At that level of performance, the filter is trapping at least 90% of household allergens. That includes dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. You’ll enjoy better indoor air quality. The filter will also keep those particles out of your system thereby maintaining optimal efficiency throughout summer.

Avoid following a general rule and replacing your filter on a set schedule. Instead, inspect it at least once a month and replace it as needed. It needs replacement when you can see dust caking up or hear a whistling sound.

Ductwork Maintenance

Ductwork is a third important consideration because of air leakage. This is where your cooled air leaks out of your ducts and into your attic or crawl space rather than flowing into your living spaces. Air leakage affects home comfort. It increases cooling costs and wear and tear on the system. It also undermines indoor air quality because air that’s more humid and polluted replaces the cooled air leaking out.

Air leakage can be as high as 5% in new ducts. It can be between 25% and 40% in older ducts in need of maintenance. To combat this, most experts recommend duct sealing. The Environmental Protection Agency advises the aerosol-based duct sealing method in particular. It works by sealing the gaps between sections and cracks in duct walls and can lower leakage to less than 5%.

Lower Your Total Costs

Routine HVAC maintenance can make a significant difference in how much you pay for cooling. It can lower your month-to-month costs, help to avoid repairs, and extend the life of your equipment.