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AC Maintenance

How often should you service your HVAC?

AC maintenance appointment frequency has many variables. However, the answer to this question affects your system’s lifespan, your utility bills, and the comfort level in your home.

The short answer is this:

  • Central air systems require maintenance: Once a year, typically in the Spring.
  • Gas Furnaces should be serviced once a year, generally in the fall.
  • Heat pumps should be serviced in the Spring and Fall.
  • Older AC systems need AC maintenance twice per year.

In Houston, we recommend servicing your HVAC system twice per year, once in the Spring and once in the Fall. Houston’s humidity causes your AC system to work harder than in any other region of the United States. More frequent AC maintenance appointments will reduce the accumulation of AC repairs accumulating and prevent a catastrophic emergency AC event.

AC maintenance could be compared to changing the oil in your vehicle. The longer the delay between oil changes, the higher the possibility that wear and tear on critical components could affect your car.

What are the unique factors that affect AC Maintenance in Southeast Texas?

The heat and humidity in Texas are no joke. The heat starts in April and does not let up until late October. Humidity is consistent all year round. The Texas Gulf Coast climate requires HVAC systems to work hard for most of the year. Many areas throughout the United States offer cooler temperatures that allow your air conditioner to have some downtime. The consistent operation in the Houston area ages systems faster than normal.

What is the best time for AC maintenance?

You do not want to wait until your system is failing to schedule your AC maintenance. In the Houston area, Houston Trane recommends that you have your HVAC system serviced twice a year.

  • Spring Maintenance: Preventive maintenance is always better than reactive repair. And it is also cheaper! Scheduling your routine AC maintenance in the Spring is optimal to get your unit performing its best before the warming season.
  • Fall Maintenance: As the temperatures begin to drop, it won’t be very long before you turn on your furnace for the first time. Although Houstonians do not use their heater the entire winter, it is best to have your system inspected for any potential issues before the cold weather hits.

Scheduling your AC maintenance before contractors are overwhelmed with emergency repair calls avoids extended wait times and prevents suffering in the heat or cold.

Routine AC Maintenance Benefits

Just like oil changes or rotating your tires, AC maintenance is not something that should be neglected. Routine maintenance is not just an expense; it is a money-saving strategy. Properly maintained HVAC systems are 10-30% more energy efficient than those systems that are not maintained.

In addition to lower utility bills, properly maintained HVAC systems have a longer lifespan. A poorly maintained HVAC system can last up to twice as long as one that is neglected. When the system fails and requires repair, properly neglected systems are more likely to have components that need to be replaced, which equals higher AC repair costs. Statistics show that 85% of AC repairs are due to an HVAC system that was neglected.

How does proper AC maintenance affect manufacturers’ warranties?

Most HVAC system manufacturer warranty details require proper maintenance. If a part that is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty fails, the manufacturer may require you to present the AC maintenance records to cover the cost of replacement.

When does an AC maintenance appointment become an AC repair call?

Mechanical appliances are predictable in that they will alert you when they are about to fail. You will know that it is time to call in a Trane Comfort Specialist for an AC repair appointment when you experience one or more of the following signs.

  • Diminished Airflow: If you notice that there is a decrease in the amount of air coming from your vents, it is likely that your blower or ductwork is failing.
  • Spikes in Utility Bills: If you notice a sudden spike in your utility bills, there is a breakdown in the efficiency of your HVAC system.
  • Loud Noises: If you notice any unusual noises coming from your system, it is a sure sign of a component that is failing.
  • Unusual Odors: Odors coming from your ductwork indicate that you could have mold or mildew buildup in your HVAC system.
  • Short Cycling: If your HVAC system turns off and on, it can be caused by several different reasons.

If any of these issues are happening with your system, it is time to call an AC repair technician.

Ready to Protect Your Investment? Find a Trane Comfort Specialist Today!

Don’t wait for the brutal Houston heat or a sudden cold snap to catch you off guard. Regular AC maintenance is the single best way to lower your energy bills, prevent costly emergency repairs, and keep your home comfortable all year long. Ready to schedule your next tune-up? Use our quick and easy Dealer Locator Tool now to find a certified, reliable Trane AC maintenance contractor right in your Houston neighborhood!