During intense BC heatwaves, homeowners count on their air conditioners to keep their homes comfortable. However, many residents face hefty bills and sweltering temperatures because of neglected maintenance, dirty filters, and poor installation. Looking to avoid costly air conditioner repairs this summer? Here are three ways to keep costs (and temperatures!) low.
Invest in Preventive Maintenance
When dealing with your AC unit, upfront investments equal long-term savings. Proactive yearly air conditioner maintenance helps keep things running smoothly while catching minor issues before they turn into costly repairs. Plus, when you schedule an appointment early, you can avoid expensive emergency call-out fees or seasonal surge pricing. DirectBuy Furnace’s factory-trained specialists provide upfront pricing, free consultations, and no hidden fees, so you always know what you’re paying for. Our air conditioner maintenance services include:
- Complete system inspection to identify any issues.
- Thorough cleaning of all coils, filters, and other key components.
- Checking refrigerant levels and refilling when necessary.
- Inspecting all electrical connections for safe operation.
- Testing your thermostat for accuracy.
- Checking airflow for optimal efficiency.
Keep Your Filter Clean
Here’s the truth: dirty filters are the number one cause of expensive air conditioner repairs. When your filter is clogged with dust, dirt, or debris, air struggles to flow freely through your system. This can cause increased strain on your system and often leads to overheating, frozen evaporator coils, and even complete system shutdown.
These problems are easily avoidable if you keep your home’s HVAC filter clean and fresh. Follow these simple steps:
- Inspect and Clean Your Filter: We recommend regularly inspecting your filter to monitor dust and debris. If necessary, most filters can be vacuumed to remove basic buildup.
- Keep a Filter Replacement Schedule: Keep track of your filter replacement. Most standard 1-inch filters should be changed every couple of months.
- Replace Your Filter: To properly replace your filter, make sure you purchase a replacement that is the correct size. We recommend using your existing filter as a reference. Once you have the correct filter on hand, turn off your AC unit, locate the filter, and insert it with the arrows pointing towards your unit. Turn your system back on and enjoy increased air flow!
Ensure Your AC is Correctly Sized
Avoiding AC repairs can start as early as installation. By choosing a unit that is properly sized for your home, you prevent several problems from occurring, including:
- Short-cycling, when an oversized unit cools your space too quickly.
- Overheating, when an undersized unit is working too hard to cool your space.
- Other mechanical failures from poor installation.
All these issues can put significant stress on your unit, leading to system breakdowns. So, if you are in the market for a new unit, ensure your technician performs proper sizing calculations to avoid future problems. This might include assessing the age of your home, examining existing ductwork, and performing proper AC load calculations.
Need Air Conditioning Repair? Call Us Today!
If you notice warm air, ice on lines, or rising hydro bills, don’t wait. Schedule fast air conditioning repair and service in Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, and other areas across the Lower Mainland.
At DirectBuy Furnace, we take the comfort of your home seriously. That’s why all our technicians are fully licensed, trained, and equipped with the latest tools and technology to provide the best maintenance services possible. Learn why over 1,000 Lower Mainland residents trust us for expert air conditioning repair, service, and installation by calling us at 604-767-7993 today!