How to Find an AC Maintenance Contractor

Don’t Wait for Summer, Find an AC Maintenance Contractor

Chances are, most South Texans have already begun using air conditioning since the temperatures are on the rise. However, the intense summer heat has not arrived yet, so there is still time to “beat the heat” and have your air conditioner serviced. There are many reasons to give your system a check-up by a qualified AC maintenance contractor.

• A poorly maintained AC requires more energy, costing homeowners more money to do normal AC tasks.
• A poorly maintained AC does not cool as well, especially when the heat is intense.
• A poorly maintained AC does not clean the air as well as it should.
• A poorly maintained AC system does not last as long; maintenance may reduce useful life by five years.

But the most important reason for regularly scheduled AC maintenance for a residential air conditioner system is to avoid the discomfort and inconvenience of having a system failure during the hottest part of the summer. Forget Murphy’s Law! A weak component will be stressed by extreme heat and fail at the hottest time of the summer.

Residential air conditioning systems are a complex arrangement of chemical, mechanical, and electrical components and require a qualified AC maintenance contractor. Preventative AC maintenance addresses each component systematically, ensuring all parts function within the normal operational standards.

• Cleaning is an essential part of maintenance. The condenser unit (outside) collects pollen, dust, dirt, and grass clippings that must be removed to ensure adequate heat transfer. A dirty condenser increases the risk of overheating the compressor pump, a very expensive replacement. The evaporator coil (inside) stays moist during the cooling season. When dust and other particles encounter the evaporator, the particles stick to the water on the coil. This also interferes with heat transfer and makes the whole system work harder. Of course, the air filter will be changed. The filter is responsible for collecting particles from the indoor air and removing them permanently. The collection will eventually clog the filter, so it needs to be replaced quarterly.
• Checking the refrigerant level is an essential part of maintenance. Refrigerant gases, commonly called Freon, readily absorb and release heat, the chemical process behind air conditioning and refrigeration. Cooling requires a narrow range of gas pressure to accomplish the task it is designed to complete. Reduced pressure indicates a leak in the closed network of tubes and will result in a loss of cooling.
• Testing the electronics is an essential part of maintenance. The compressor motor might be powered by 220V, the blower motor uses 110V, and the thermostat runs on 24V. Each component may be governed by sensors, switches, and control mechanisms. Knowing where to find these electronics and how to test them requires specialized training and equipment. Certain electronics send direct signals that a problem is developing, and trained technicians can uncover these signals.
• Testing performance is an essential part of maintenance. Getting the complex parts in good working order should result in efficient cooling. The technician will measure the temperature change at the supply vent to ensure the system is functioning within performance guidelines. If the performance is off, further investigation may be necessary.
• Good customer service is an essential part of maintenance. Please ask questions during the visit. If your system is old, the technician should talk with you about a replacement plan. The average air conditioner system lasts between 15 and 20 years. Beyond this timeframe, expect more frequent repairs, reduced efficiency, and a higher risk of sudden failure. (While it may not be welcome news, it is good information to have for planning purposes.)

Hire a Qualified AC Maintenance Contractor for Your Routine AC Maintenance

A qualified AC maintenance contractor ensures your system operates at peak efficiency, preventing costly repairs and extending its lifespan. Their expertise guarantees proper cleaning, inspection, and calibration of intricate components, optimizing performance and energy consumption. By hiring a professional, you’ll receive peace of mind knowing your AC is in good hands, safeguarding your comfort and investment.

Houston Trane can connect you with a Trane Licensed qualified AC maintenance contractor who can answer your questions about AC maintenance and installation. To find a local Trane AC repair Contractor, visit our Local Dealer search tool.