How to Save Money on Air Conditioning Repair
Save Money on Air Conditioning Repair
The cost of air conditioning repair can be quite high. However, there are several things that can be done to keep air conditioning repair costs down. One such thing is to troubleshoot before calling in the experts. Many of the common issues that can be caused by an AC malfunction can be fixed at home, such as dirty filters or low refrigerant. This can save both time and money.
Having an AC unit in working order is important for both comfort and health. If you have a unit that is not functioning properly, it may be time to consider air conditioning replacement. Often times, it is cheaper to replace an old AC unit than to continue paying for costly repairs.
If the AC system is not cooling your home, check first to make sure that it is turned on and that the thermostat has been set correctly. Also, check the electrical panel to make sure that a breaker has not been flipped or a fuse blown. It is a good idea to disconnect unused equipment from power sockets so that they do not draw too much electricity at a time, which could cause the system to trip or blow a fuse.
How to Save Money on Air Conditioning Repair
The most common reason for air conditioning repair is a dirty filter. A dirty air filter restricts aeration, leading to overworking and possibly damaging the compressor and/or evaporator coils. In addition, it can reduce indoor air quality. This is easily corrected by removing the old filter and replacing it with a new one. It is recommended to change the air filter at least once a month for maximum energy efficiency and improved indoor air quality.
Other common problems that can be easily repaired by the homeowner include a dirty evaporator coil and an overflowing condensate drain pan. The latter problem can be resolved by cleaning the evaporator coils and cleaning the tray that carries condensation away from it. In humid weather, it is a good idea to pour a tablespoon of bleach into the weep hole in the tray from time to time to prevent fungus growth.
An air conditioner repair specialist should be called if the refrigerant level is low or if there are signs of a leak in the line. A leaking refrigerant can cause serious damage to the system, and if the coolant is frozen inside the unit, it will need to be thawed by a professional.
Another way to avoid the need for frequent and expensive air conditioning repairs is to schedule a yearly tune-up of the unit by a professional. This can help identify and fix minor problems before they become major ones that require expensive repairs. Many HVAC companies offer a maintenance program that includes a visit to the home by an experienced technician to perform a complete system diagnostic. The service call usually costs around $80 to $100 and can be an excellent investment in the comfort of your home. It can also prevent the need for expensive AC replacement in the future.