15 March 2023
 Categories: , Blog

What do new homeowners need to know about pre-season AC maintenance? This is your first central cooling system—and you're not sure how to maintain it. Even though it's still cool enough outside to use the furnace, take a look at the whats, whens, and whys of AC service and repairs that can help to keep your system working at peak performance.

What Is A Pre-Season AC Maintenance and Repair Service?

As the name implies, this type of maintenance appointment happens before the summer cooling season starts. Maintenance typically includes an inspection, cleaning, and any necessary replacements or repairs. Specific maintenance services may include a filter change, refrigerant leak detection, and coil cleaning. To learn more about what your HVAC contractor includes in the pre-season check-up, ask the technician for a line-by-line list of services.

Some companies may include everything (with the exception of repairs/replacement parts) in the pre-season maintenance check-up, while others may offer a basic inspection and cleaning only. Additional services that can help your system to work effectively and efficiently include air duct and condensate pump cleaning. These services are not usually part of a routine pre-season AC appointment. 

While the technician won't always find a problem with your system during this routine checkup, it's possible they could. Even though the need for an unexpected repair isn't the news you may want to hear during a pre-season service, it could save you money and aggravation over time. 

When Do You Need Pre-Season AC Maintenance Services?

Again, it's all in the name. This type of air conditioning service is a pre-summer cooling season appointment. But you may not want to wait to schedule a service call until it starts to get warm out or the summer is right around the corner. You're not the only homeowner who will call the HVAC contractor to set up a pre-season AC repair or maintenance appointment. If you wait too long, you might not get the date or time that fits into your schedule. 

Why Do You Need A Pre-Season AC Appointment?

This type of routine service call has a few different benefits. You should schedule a before-summer AC service appointment to:

• Look for wear or damage. When the temperature does rise and you finally turn on your air conditioner, you could have an unexpected surprise (and not the good kind). A pre-season checkup detects problems before you need to use the AC system.

• Increase energy efficiency. A residential AC unit can use 2,000-plus kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. A dirty or damaged system could use more. A pre-season service could save you money in unnecessary utility costs.

• Validate a warranty. Some AC warranties require routine service. Failure to meet the manufacturer's guidelines could invalidate your coverage.

These benefits can help you to cut summer-time cooling costs, save you money on future repairs, and may even extend the lifespan of your air conditioner. 

For more info about AC services, contact a local company.