Like any other system inside your home, your air conditioner will require care and upkeep over the years to ensure that it operates at peak performance. If you have an older AC unit, then it's recommended that you have it inspected to determine if any preventative maintenance is necessary.

Preventative Maintenance Checklist

AC inspections involve evaluating multiple components to make sure they are in excellent condition and working together as a unit. A comprehensive inspection and maintenance includes the following components:

Filter	All Coils
Fins	Air Ducts
Condenser	Capacitors
Compressor	Electrical Wiring
Drains	Refrigerant
Motor

How Do I Know if My System Needs Maintenance?

The most obvious way to tell if your system needs maintenance is if it has never undergone any evaluation. For instance, if you purchased your AC unit five years ago, and you’ve never had it inspected, then there’s a good chance that some type of preventative maintenance is necessary.

There are also some clear symptoms that the air conditioner is not working properly:

• There is less air coming through the vents than there used to be.
• The air is not as cool as it was last summer.
• The AC is noisy or shaky.
• The thermostat doesn't seem to be accurate.
• You hear water dripping.
• The unit turns off and on more frequently than it should.
• The coil is freezing up.

Benefits of Preventative Maintenance

When it comes to air conditioners, small issues always turn into big problems. Therefore, it is wise to tackle these issues before they become costly.  Below are practical benefits of preventative maintenance:

Repairs are Expensive - Ongoing maintenance costs far less than repairs or an entire system replacement.

Maintenance Saves Time - Preventative maintenance takes less time to perform than complex repairs, which can take several hours.

Energy Efficiency - An AC unit that receives ongoing care is more likely to use less energy, which reduces your electric bills each month.

Extended Performance - By taking care of your air conditioner, you will ensure that it meets or exceeds its expected lifespan.

Increased Comfort - When all components are working, as they should, your AC will create a balanced, comfortable environment throughout the home.

What You Can Do for Your Air Conditioner

Although it is recommended that you contact a professional for all of your AC repairs, you can take some simple DIY steps to make sure that your system is in good condition.

• Change the Filters - The filters should be changed once a month or until they become dirty.
• Inspect the Thermostat - Several problems can arise from a faulty thermostat. In some cases, it may just need to be recalibrated.
• Clean the Outside Unit - Keep plants and debris away from the unit and use a brush to clean the fins.
• Keep the Drain Lines Clear - Make sure there is nothing blocking the drain line. Otherwise, the drain pan will overflow.
• Check Other Components - Is there a leak in the air ducts? Are the vents all open and working properly?

If you need to have your air conditioning system professionally inspected or repaired, then contact today at Guaranteed Services and ask about our Service Agreements and how to save on fees.