Use These Tips To Reduce Calls For AC Repair | Plano, TX
Do you want to keep your AC repair bills down? Of course you do! No one wants to spend money on repairs, especially with something as vital as your air conditioner. The good news is you can do a few things to keep your AC running smoothly and help avoid costly repairs in Plano, TX.
1. Clean or Replace Your Filters Regularly
This is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your AC unit, and it’s also one of the easiest. Clogged or dirty filters make your AC work harder, which wastes energy and can lead to premature wear and tear on your unit. Check your filters monthly and clean or replace them as needed.
If you have pets or allergies, you may need to replace your filters more frequently. An AC repair professional can help you find the right schedule and filter to keep your unit running efficiently. They can also show you how to clean or replace your filters properly.
2. Keep the Condenser Unit Free of Debris
The condenser is the part of your AC unit that releases heat to the outside air. ‘You should clean the condenser coils at least once a year and more often if you live in an area with a good deal of pollen or other airborne particles. If it becomes clogged with leaves, dirt, or other debris, it won’t be able to do its job correctly.
This isn’t a DIY task. Schedule an annual maintenance appointment with an HVAC professional to keep your AC running at peak efficiency.
3. Clear the Area Around the AC Unit
Your AC unit needs plenty of airflow to work correctly, so ensure nothing is blocking the vents or condenser coils. This includes trimming any foliage that’s grown too close to the unit. Remember that your AC unit needs at least two feet of clearance on all sides for proper airflow. We suggest using landscape fabric or mulch to create a barrier between your AC unit and any plantings in your Plano, TX home.
4. Schedule an Annual Maintenance Appointment
As mentioned, having your AC unit serviced by a professional at least once a year is essential. Catching minor problems early can save you a lot of money in the long run and help you avoid a significant AC repair.
A typical visit includes:
- Inspect and clean the condenser and evaporator coils
- Check the refrigerant level
- Review the electrical connections
- Inspect the blower motor
- Check the air filter
These are just a few things our technicians will do to keep your air conditioning unit running smoothly and reduce the need for AC repair. Call us today to schedule your appointment!
5. Use a Programmable Thermostat
Using a programmable thermostat is a great way to save energy and money on your cooling costs. You can set the thermostat to raise the temperature when you’re away from home or asleep and lower it when needed. This simple step can help you reduce your energy usage by 10%.
For the most efficiency, choose a smart thermostat that can adjust the temperature based on the weather outside. Connect to your phone, so you can change the temperature even when you’re not home. Some models let you sync the temperature settings with your schedule, so you never have to worry about forgetting to adjust the temperature.
6. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency AC Unit
If your AC unit is over ten years old, it’s probably time to think about upgrading to a new, high-efficiency model. More recent units use less energy and can save you money on your cooling costs. They also have fewer repair issues. A One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Dallas representative can help you choose the right unit for your home.
It’s vital to have the right size unit for your residence. A unit that’s too big will cool your home inefficiently, while a unit that’s too small will have to work harder and will not cool your Plano, TX home sufficiently.
7. Know When to Call for Help
Even if you take all these steps to prevent AC repair, you may still need to call a professional from time to time. If your AC unit isn’t cooling your home properly or is making strange noises, it’s time to call for help. The sooner you can get the problem diagnosed and repaired, the better. Review the problems below to learn more about common AC repair needs.
If you’re experiencing any of the following issues, it’s time to call for AC repair:
- Your HVAC system isn’t cooling your home properly- it may be low on refrigerant.
- The unit’s making strange noises-This could be a sign of loose parts or other issues.
- There’s water leaking from the unit – The system may be overworked and needs to be serviced.
- It’s turning on and off – This could be a sign of an airflow issue.
- The system’s blowing hot air – This could signify a failed compressor.
Don’t wait until your air conditioning unit breaks down to call for AC repair. The problem will be much harder and more expensive to fix by then.
The temperature can get oppressive in Texas, so having a functional AC unit is important. Take steps to prevent repair needs and call for help as soon as an issue arises. Also, remember a little maintenance can go a long way in prolonging the life of your unit and keeping repair costs down.
One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Dallas is here to help with all your AC repair needs. Our team of certified professionals is available 24/7 to help you with any AC issue, big or small. Call us today. You can also schedule a maintenance appointment to help prevent future repair needs.