Many of us have come to depend on the cool comfort provided by our air-conditioning systems. Air-conditioning can provide a welcome respite from even the hottest outdoor temperatures, which can be important not only for your comfort but your safety as well. However, when your air conditioner unexpectedly breaks down, it can leave you in a sticky situation, both figuratively and literally. Unfortunately, those unexpected AC failures may happen at the most inopportune moments, leaving you to sweat it out as you wait for a professional air conditioner and furnace repair service to restore your comfort level.
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to limit your exposure to surprise breakdowns of your air-conditioning system. The greatest single step you can take in that regard is establishing a routine maintenance schedule with a professional company providing air conditioner repair in Pittsburgh, PA. But why is preventative maintenance so important to proper operation of your AC and heating systems? Keep reading to find out why routine maintenance is critical to the efficiency and longevity of your AC unit.
Better Performance
There are many components in your air-conditioning system that may work fine without maintenance for a while, but eventually they must be cleaned and restored to work at optimal levels. For example, your condenser coil is an important part of your AC, as it's where the heat from the air in your home is expelled outside and the refrigerant is condensed back into a cold liquid used for cooling the indoor air. The coil radiates heat from the air, but it can only do so efficiently if it's not dirty. If the coil becomes covered in grime, it could undermine the performance of the entire system. That's just one of the ways that regular maintenance can ensure your unit is in optimal operating condition.
Better Efficiency
Likewise, a unit that is performing optimally will also run more efficiently, which will save you money on energy bills. For example, if your refrigerant levels are low, your unit won't be able to maintain the temperature setting on your thermostat as easily. As a result, the unit will cycle on more often, and when it does it will run for longer periods. That will drive your energy costs up and leave you with increased bills at month's end, especially during the hottest parts of the year. However, by performing routine maintenance, your HVAC professional can assess refrigerant levels and other operational factors to ensure your unit is running efficiently.
Longer Lifespan
Replacing an AC unit can be a costly endeavor, so most property owners prefer to get the longest life possible out of their current systems. One way to extend the lifespan of your AC unit is by performing routine maintenance. First, professional HVAC techs will inspect your system and can spot potential problems before they lead to AC failure. In those instances, repairs can be made that will not only keep your AC running in the present but also prevent more substantial future problems. Also, your system will experience less wear and tear when routine maintenance is performed. For example, a simple maintenance task, such as regularly changing the filters, can lead to less wear on the blower, thus extending its lifespan.
While you may have wondered why AC maintenance is important, it's easy to see that performing routine maintenance on your HVAC system can save you money on energy bills, enhance the performance of your system, and extend the lifespan of your AC unit. If you need the help of a professional HVAC company in Pittsburgh, PA, call Stahl Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning at 412-273-1000.