The air conditioner is one of the most important appliances in your home. If it breaks down in the heat of summer, it can be a serious problem. But with routine AC maintenance and repairs, you can extend the life of your HVAC system by avoiding major breakdowns.
When your AC Unit Breaks Down
The most common reason for air conditioning system breakdowns is a faulty part or component that needs to be replaced. Generally, your HVAC technician will be able to replace the part or component in a single service visit. The most common parts that fail are the compressor, the blower motor, the evaporator coils, and the condenser.
A Repair Is In Need Of The Following Services
The AC service technicians will inspect all of the components in your system to ensure that they are in good working order. These inspections are crucial for catching problems before they become expensive to repair.
They may also clean the condenser coils and evaporator to remove any dirt or debris that could be impeding your system’s cooling capabilities. In addition, they may check for a refrigerant leak and recharge the system with the proper amount of refrigerant.
These services should be included in every maintenance appointment.
During your annual air conditioning tune-up, the technician will perform a few additional services, such as checking the thermostat, tightening electrical connections and performing a thorough cleaning of the ductwork. These extra services will help to increase the lifespan of your system and keep your warranty valid.
Most experienced HVAC technicians will provide you with an estimate of the cost for each service before the work is performed. They can also tell you how long the job will take.
Costs depend on the size and complexity of the AC system, the faulty component or part that needs to be replaced, and whether it’s covered by a warranty. Smaller and simpler units, such as window units, are typically cheaper to AC Repair.
If a portion of your air conditioning system is covered by a manufacturer’s warranty, you will only pay for the labor costs and any parts that break. However, if you have no warranty or it’s expired, you’ll likely be responsible for the entire bill.
There are also several ways to reduce the overall cost of a repair. Having your system maintained twice a year will minimize the number of maintenance visits needed and make it more likely that your AC will be repaired in a timely manner.
Having the system inspected and cleaned once a year will help to keep your energy bills down as well. Most homeowners find that they save a significant amount of money on their monthly energy bills by keeping their systems in good working condition.
Aside from the cost of a repair, you will also need to consider the age and performance of your AC unit. The older and more poorly functioning the unit, the higher the cost of repairs will be.