It’s estimated that homeowners spend around $2,500 on repairs and maintenance each year, according to Investopedia. Those who aren’t proactive about this responsibility risk diminishing their quality of life, especially if their AC breaks down.
Greenville summers can be long, and no one wants their AC quitting when it matters most. Keeping it running well doesn’t take much, but it does take consistency.
With the right approach, you can avoid expensive breakdowns and uncomfortable days. Simple steps go a long way when it comes to AC maintenance in Greenville, and it’s essential to prioritize it. Below, we’ll explore some of the most notable tips to keep in mind.
Start with Regular Inspections
Catching small issues early prevents larger repairs later. You don’t need to wait for your AC to stop working before giving it attention.
A regular visual check can reveal signs of wear or moisture that shouldn’t be there. Some tasks are safe for homeowners, like checking visible wiring or looking for leaks. For more comprehensive checks, call professionals familiar with Greenville air conditioning systems who know what to look for beyond the surface.
Change Filters Before They Clog
Dirty filters make your system work harder and shorten its life. They also affect air quality in your home. Changing them regularly is one of the easiest ways to keep everything running smoothly.
Try sticking to a schedule so the habit becomes routine. Clean filters support better airflow and reduce strain on the system. Keep these points in mind:
- Choose the correct filter size
- Mark your calendar when you install a new one
- Avoid cheap filters that clog quickly
- Store extras at home to avoid forgetting
Staying on top of this task gives your system a better shot at lasting longer.
Watch for Unusual Noises or Smells
Odd sounds can be the first warning that something’s wrong. Banging or rattling noises are key signs you shouldn’t ignore. Smells can also hint at deeper issues, like mold in the ducts or burnt wiring.
Pay attention to changes that don’t seem normal. If you notice something abnormal, call someone who handles HVAC services and get ahead of the damage.
Clean the Outdoor Unit Carefully
The outdoor unit needs just as much attention as anything inside. Dirt can be a major issue if left unchecked, especially after storms or high pollen seasons. Cleaning around it improves performance and helps it last longer.
Shut off the power first, then clear out any buildup by hand or with a hose. Make sure the unit has enough space around it for proper airflow.
Taking the time to clean it properly helps protect your investment. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Remove leaves and twigs from around the base
- Wash off pollen or dirt from the fins
- Use a soft brush to avoid bending anything
- Check that nearby plants aren’t growing too close
Once it’s clean, it can cool your home without struggling to pull in air.
Seal Leaks Around Windows and Doors
Cool air escapes easily through poor seals, making your system work harder than necessary. Even tiny cracks around windows and doors affect indoor temperatures. This leads to longer run times and drives up energy costs.
Sealing these gaps makes your home more efficient and comfortable. Over time, less strain on your system extends its AC lifespan and helps reduce breakdowns.
Adjust the Thermostat Seasonally
When temperatures change, your settings should as well. Running your AC too hard in spring or fall wastes energy and adds stress to your system.
Instead of setting one temperature all year, adjust it as the weather shifts. Even small changes can ease the workload and lower your bill. Smart thermostats make this process easier and can help automate some of these changes.
Adapting to the seasons doesn’t require major upgrades, either. These adjustments go a long way:
- Raise the temp when you’re not home
- Keep it steady overnight
- Use fans to support airflow
- Let the system rest when the windows are open
Being mindful of your settings adds up over time.
Keep Vents and Ducts Clear
Blocked vents slow airflow and make your system less effective. Furniture or rugs might be blocking vents without you even realizing it.
Dust buildup inside ducts also affects airflow and air quality. Walk through your home and check every vent to be sure it’s open and clear. If you haven’t had the ducts cleaned in years, it might be time to consider it.
Schedule a Professional Tune-up
Some maintenance needs a trained eye. A professional technician can check things like refrigerant levels and the condition of the blower. Having this done at least once a year keeps your system in shape and helps avoid surprise repairs.
Choose a company with experience in preventative AC maintenance to get the most value. Many offer seasonal specials that make regular service easier to afford.
Regular service adds years to your unit’s life, as well. Keep these in mind when you schedule:
- Spring is often the best time to book
- Ask for a full performance report
- Watch how they test your system
- Keep a record of visits and repairs
Proactive care now reduces stress when summer heat rolls in.
Track Energy Bills for Spikes
An unexpected jump in your bill often means something isn’t working right. If usage habits haven’t changed but costs rise, your AC could be struggling.
It might be a dirty coil or something more serious that needs immediate attention. Compare bills month to month and season to season. Noticing a trend early lets you fix issues before they cause more substantial trouble tied to AC maintenance.
Don’t Neglect AC Maintenance in Greenville
Treating your system with care gives it a better chance at lasting through every season. Small efforts today toward AC maintenance in Greenville help prevent major issues tomorrow.
Home Service Nerds brings expert-level precision to every HVAC job with a personal touch only a family-operated, veteran-owned team can offer. Our “first fix” philosophy, transparent pricing, and real human support set us apart.
Backed by 20+ years of experience, we keep Greenville homes comfortable with fast, honest, and nerd-level service. You can get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help.
