How To Save On AC Repair
Air conditioners don't last forever, and at some point, most of them need to be repaired. The cost of repairs can really add up, but thankfully, there are ways to keep your total repair costs down. Here are a few of them.
1. Take good care of your system.
The best way to save on repairs is to reduce your chances of needing repair. Achieve this by providing your AC unit with proper maintenance throughout its lifetime. Change your air filters monthly, clean your air conditioner every spring, and make sure you have the ducts cleaned at least every couple of years so that the grime they contain does not end up on your air conditioner. The dirtier your air conditioner becomes, the harder it will have to work to cool your home effectively -- so keeping it clean reduces the wear and tear on your system.
2. Use your system as intended.
Another good way to reduce the burden on your air conditioner and therefore reduce the need for repairs is to only use the system as intended. Never add vents or ducts to the system yourself. For example, do not run ducts to your garage because you decide you want to cool it. Your AC unit may not be powerful enough to cool the extra space, so the added ductwork may put a strain on it and lead to breakdowns.
Do not close your vents in order to selectively cool only part of your home. This causes the pressure in the ducts to rise, and your AC unit has to work against that pressure. Years of working against the pressure can cause strain in the fan motor, leading to the need for repairs.
3. Join an HVAC discount program.
Many HVAC companies have a membership program. If you join this program, they give you a certain number of free maintenance appointments each year, and they also give you a discount on repairs. Call around to various HVAC companies in your area, and see who has the best discount program. Make sure that company services the brand of AC unit that you have. Paying a small amount of money to join such a program will often save you hundreds of dollars later on when you do need repairs.
Air conditioner repairs do not have to break the bank. Reduce the chances of breakdowns by taking care of your system and using it as intended, and then join an HVAC discount program for more savings. For more information, contact your local air conditioning repair service.