Routine AC maintenance and inspection is something that has been endorsed by the U.S. Department of Energy. Yet, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, only 42% of homeowners schedule professional routine maintenance for their air conditioners. This is despite the fact that air conditioners tend to last 40% longer as a result of regular routine maintenance. If you haven't had your unit inspected by a professional air conditioner contractor, you might be missing out on the following great benefits.

Lower Energy Bills

When temperatures get hot outside, your AC has to work hard to keep your home cool. However, you must keep in mind that the harder your unit works, the more energy it consumes. With the help of a qualified air conditioner contractor, you can reduce the strain on your AC system.

Take, for instance, the issue of regularly replacing or cleaning AC filters. These filters tend to get clogged and dirty over time. If the filters are not cleaned or replaced, they'll restrict airflow, which negatively impacts the efficiency of your unit. The more you use your air conditioner, the more you have to change or clean the filter. This is something your air conditioner contractor can help you with. They can also ensure that other components, like the evaporator coil and condensate drains, are free of clogs. They will perform various maintenance tasks that keep your AC operating as efficiently as possible. The more efficient your AC is, the less energy it uses and the more you save in the long run.

Uninterrupted AC Function

One of the biggest benefits of hiring a reliable air conditioner contractor for routine maintenance is that it reduces the risk of breakdowns. That's because, during routine inspection and maintenance, the service technician uses their trained eye to identify potential issues. This proactive approach prevents issues from getting worse to the point where your unit will require costly fixes and major repairs. Additionally, you can avoid your AC breaking down when you need it the most. Interrupted function means that you'll be at the mercy of outside temperatures. Repeated breakdowns also shorten the life of your unit, meaning you'll have to invest in a unit sooner rather than later.

Optimal AC Performance

When you hire a well-trained air conditioner contractor, there's a lot they can do to ensure your unit functions as optimally as possible. For instance, they will check the refrigerant level and test for refrigerant leaks that can lead to poor cooling, long cooling cycles, and ice formation on evaporator coils. They'll also ensure the safe disposal of refrigerant that must be removed from the system to prevent harm to the environment.

Additionally, your service technician will ensure proper airflow and prevent duct leakage in the system. They can tighten electrical connections, calibrate the thermostat, and lubricate moving parts to prevent wear and tear. These activities will ensure that your unit continues to perform optimally, and the reduced wear and tear helps to extend the life of your AC so you can get more years of service out of it.

Improved Home Comfort

During the summer, your home would be much less comfortable without proper air conditioning. Your air conditioner contractor can help your unit function properly so you don't have to endure excessively hot temperatures or a sweaty environment when at home. Besides regulating the temperature, your unit can also control humidity levels, preventing problems associated with unwanted moisture, such as mold growth and musty smells. Most importantly, when your air conditioner is running properly, it can significantly improve your indoor air quality by removing contaminants like dirt, dust, pollen, and pet dander from the circulating air. This is great for health, especially for household members with allergies, asthma, or sensitivity issues.

If you have been neglecting your air conditioner, here are some of the benefits you could potentially be missing out on. Fortunately, you can turn things around by contacting a professional AC service as soon as possible. According to Bob Vila, it's important to hire a professional air conditioner contractor at least once a year. You should also do the same if your unit is not performing optimally, such as when it's failing to consistently cool your home. The right air conditioner contractor can help lower your energy bills and ensure better functionality, optimal AC performance, and improved home comfort. Give our team at Joe Hurley Inc a call today to schedule an appointment.