When the heat of summer hits, knowing you are protected from unexpected AC repairs is a comfortable frame of mind. A few proactive steps on your part can make a nice, cold house on those hot summer days a reality. Follow these steps and you will be enjoying your cool home and staying comfortable this summer.

Change Filters

Even though it is basic knowledge, homeowners do not change their filters as regularly as they need to. By doing this one thing, you can eliminate a large number of the AC repair visits that you might have otherwise needed. A clean filter allows the air conditioner to run as the manufacturer designed it to. That means a cooler house, a more efficient air conditioner, and low cost maintenance services twice a year instead of a large expensive repair cost when you have a dirty system that shuts down.

Manage the Thermostat

Another task that most people do not think about is adjusting the thermostat. Making adjustments at night and when you are not at home can allow the air conditioner to run more effectively than having it run full speed all day long. Continuous running of the air conditioner can lead to AC repair calls because the system is not designed to run for that long continuously. If you have a digital thermostat, you can program the air conditioner to adjust automatically throughout the day and while you are away. This is the most effective way to manage your thermostat, lower your power bill, and give your air conditioner a break.

Regular Maintenance

It is crucial that you have a professional AC repair technician out to inspect your air conditioner twice a year, once before it begins to get too hot so they can make sure the system is working properly, and then again after the summer is over so they can check and make sure that the use during the summer did not damage anything or create any problems. If you follow this maintenance plan, you can also eliminate a lot of AC repair calls to your home.

Listen to Your System

Although it may sound strange, sometimes you can tell if there are issues with your air conditioner by listening to it as it runs. When a system is running properly, there is a smooth sound to it. As problems arise that may create a need for an AC repair, you may begin to hear rattling, the motor may sound like it is straining to operate, or you can hear whistling issues if there are problems with the duct system. Confirming that everything sounds right can help with your air conditioner’s longevity.

Assist Your Air Conditioner Where You Can

This may sound confusing, but if you have ceiling fans or even fans in general, they can assist your air conditioner to successfully circulate the air. That can prevent the air conditioner from being over worked and causing AC repair issues during the summer time. Not only will your house feel better with the proper air circulation, but your utility bills will be lower as well.

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Needing a professional AC repair technician to either service the unit at your home or repair it is inevitable. Just like with other large items such as your car, maintaining expensive items can be handled more efficiently by properly taking care of them. If you maintain your air conditioner with a few obvious and easy things, you can make those inevitable AC repair visits easier on your wallet.

Invest in a Quality Thermostat

There are multiple things you can do when it comes to your thermostat. The top priority is to invest in an electronic thermostat that can be programed to adjust the air conditioner throughout the day. This is important because during the summer time when the heat is extremely potent, your air conditioner wants to continue to run all the time. If you have your thermostat set at 72 and the heat outside is over 100, then you can bet that your air conditioner will be running non-stop. With programmable features, you can adjust the temperature during the evening while you are asleep so the unit can rest or even during the day if you are at work and there is no one at home. Many thermostats also allow you to program them to lower the temperature before you get home so you are comfortable when you arrive.

Change the Filter

This seems like a common sense thing, but you would be amazed by the amount of AC repair visits that are requested because the homeowner does not properly and consistently change their filter. This is actually the number one reason for systems having issues because the unit is incapable of blowing clean air due to clogs in the filter. One rule of thumb is to set a specific day, such as the first day of the month, and change the filter that same day every month. Not only will that prevent consistent AC repair visit, it will also help your house to stay more comfortable, the air will be much cleaner, and your power bill will likely be lower.

Clean the Outside Unit

Going outside to do some manual labor isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but if you clean your outside unit regularly, you should not have to be out in the heat for very long. Make sure grass or weeds have not grown up around the unit. Just like you set a reminder to replace your filters, find a time to clean the outside of your unit regularly. Maybe every time you mow the lawn or every time you take the trash can out, just give it a quick once over and remove or cut back any weeds or leaves that have accumulated. Maintaining a clean unit keeps dust and moisture from building up and resulting in an AC repair visit because the system shuts down.

Commit to Regular Check Ups

Always make sure your local professional AC repair technician comes out and checks your air conditioner regularly. Just like other items need maintenance, your air conditioner needs regular AC repair visits to make sure everything is running properly. If you catch a problem early, then your overall cost will likely be much less because the equipment will last longer and you will not have to replace it for years.

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Your system for air conditioning is an investment financially as well as for the quality of life. Not only does it keep you cool and comfortable inside, but it protects your possessions from humidity from paintings on your walls to the wood that makes up the structure of your home. When you want to make sure that you get the most out of your cooling system, you will need to find an AC repair company that puts you first. Here we look at a few qualities that you should expect from a local company that puts your needs first and will keep your air conditioner running in optimal condition.

They Are Straightforward About Pricing

Whether you are making an appointment with an AC repair company or you are investing in a home improvement repair, you want to bring in people that are straightforward about pricing and clear when you have questions. No one likes to get surprised on their bill and the best companies know that you have a budget when it comes to AC repairs. Before you bring in the expert to perform an AC repair, make sure that you have a clear understanding of how they charge and what will be on your final bill so you can account for it.

They Do a Complete Diagnostic

The best AC repair company will never gloss over the problem with a quick fix, but will do a complete diagnostic check so that you get to the root of the problem. This way, when the pros come out to check on the issues you are having, they can proactively make sure that there are no other problems.

They Respond Quickly

When you need an AC repair, then you want it to be sure that you get the problem resolved quickly. The HVAC companies will be quick to respond because they know that you don’t want to waste any time getting your home back to the cool temperatures that make it comfortable. If you have an emergency service, then you will find quality professionals provide this when it comes to AC repair so that your space is at a safe temperature.

They Are Local and Reputable

You should never go with people that claim they can complete your AC repair, but are not familiar with the area. There are a lot of handymen out there that you meet in the hardware store, only to discover they don’t live in the area and they don’t provide any guarantees. Go with a crew that is certified, licensed, insured, and experienced, and a company that you can easily reach when an issue arises.

They Have a Knowledgeable Customer Service

It can be frustrating to call an AC repair business only to find the person on the other side of the phone isn’t sure what is going on. You want a knowledgeable customer service that listens to your needs and the promptly responds to them with appointments, estimates, and can answer your pressing questions.

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For the most part, people will look forward summer from taking a nice vacation to going to the pool to putting away those winter coats. However, there are also those days so hot you feel like you are sticking to every chair you sit in. When summer is at its peak, then you want to be sure you are ready for it, and that includes having your AC unit ready. Here are a few ways that you can check to see if you need an AC repair, and how you can make sure your cooling system is ready for the summer months.

Have You Had an Inspection by a Professional Lately?

You should have your AC unit inspected by a professional once a year to make sure that it is running in prime condition and everything is clean. They will be able to resolve any issues and make AC repairs where necessary. While this may seem like an easy task to skip, it is one that can make the difference between how long your unit runs down the road.

Have You Noticed Good Air Flow?

As you start to turn your air conditioner on this summer, make sure you pay attention to the air flow so that everything seems normal. Pay attention to the smells that come out and if you see any dander being spread when blowing out of the vents. If you notice anything unusual, then call in the experts.

Is Your Home at a Comfortable Temperature?

While you should be realistic about the temperature that your cooling system can product, you should always be able to reach a comfortable temperature in your home. If it is over a hundred degrees outside, then reaching temperatures in the low seventies will be difficult for your unit and will make it work harder than it should. However, you should be able to get fifteen to twenty degrees below the temperatures outside with good installation and a AC unit that is working as it should.

Have You Talked to Your Family About Thermostat Rules?

One way to wear down your unit and need more frequent AC repairs is to have numerous people controlling the thermostat. Whether you and your spouse continually set the temperature differently throughout the day remotely or inside, or you have kids or roommates that go behind you to adjust the thermostat, you will need to have a chat with everyone about the temperatures to set and the basic rules so your unit doesn’t work extra hard.

Have You Invested in a New Thermostat?

If you want to save money on your energy bill and have fewer AC repairs, then check the age of your thermostat. A new thermostat will give you more control over the temperatures and allow you to set reminders for filter changes and other tasks. Plus, they are an affordable way to enhance your air conditioning unit. Ask a professional about your options and get them involved when you want to have a unit that lasts.

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When you have invested in a new air conditioner, then you may finally have peace of mind that you won’t be worrying about expensive AC repairs for quite some time. But then one day, you wake up to discover that you don’t have the air flow you should, your cooling system isn’t turning on at all, or your energy bill is oddly high. When this happens, you have to call in the pros for AC repair, and here are a few reasons why you may need to involve the experts not long after a new unit is installed.

You May Have Had the Wrong Size Unit Installed

One of the most important tips when having a new air conditioning unit installed is to make sure you go with a reputable company. Amateurs may slip up on measurements or won’t have an understanding of the sizes of units designed for specific square footages. When a wrong-sized unit is installed, then your cooling system will struggle to meet the comfort level needs of your space whether you have commercial or residential property. This will leave you with a unit that needs AC repairs more frequently and a higher energy bill.

You May Have Had Amateurs Remove the Old System

Some people will offer to remove your old unit because they want the scrap metal while others think it will save them a little money to DIY this job, but you should be very cautious. You don’t want to take out certain components like ductwork, and you want to be sure you are handling the air conditioner in a safe way. If you want to ensure a smooth install that won’t cost you extra money, then make sure professionals remove the old system.

The Ductwork May Not Be the Right Size

If you have an AC repair company that installs a unit without checking the size of the ductwork, then you may have problems early on with air flow. The most reputable companies will check everything from the ductwork to the thermostat so that each aspect is covered and you’re left with a comfortable home.

The Filters May Not Be Cleaned and Changed Enough

When you get a new unit, you might need to adjust the frequency that you change filters. Just because your unit is brand new and more efficient doesn’t mean that it collects less dust and dander. Keep up with this to ensure you don’t see problems early in the lifespan of your unit and to prevent future AC repair.

You May Think Your Unit Is Younger Than It Is

Sometimes you need to go back to the paperwork of when the unit is installed because you may not realize that your air conditioner is actually older than it is. Because a quality installation and premium HVAC system will have a long lifespan that can last anywhere from ten years plus, it can be easy to think your five-year-old system is a little over two years.

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When it comes to AC repair, we tend to ask people from all walks of life what they think the problem is from co-workers to family members. However, you have to be careful where you gather your information because you don’t want to end up causing more damage due to bad data. Here we review a few trusted sources that you can go to for quality advice and service when your air conditioner isn’t working quite right and you think you need a repair.

The Experts

There are some outstanding AC experts in the industry and you want to be sure that this is where you begin your quest for knowledge about AC repairs. You can find experts online that will help you identify common issues and let you know what will be a simple repair you can fix on your own and which ones will require that you call in the professionals. However, you should be mindful when you are looking at sources online and make sure that they are certified and trustworthy. The best bet is to find a company that has a brick and mortar office in your area.

Yourself

You can rely on your skills for minor AC repairs if you are confident in doing the job yourself. Over the years, many homeowners do learn a thing or two about how to spot issues and can then resolve them on their own. As long you know your limitations and educate yourself on the best safety rules and accurate practices, you can accomplish quite a bit. But when even the slightest amount of doubt crosses your mind, call in the experts because you can’t leave this up to guesswork or you’ll have a much bigger problem on your hands.

Your Landlord or Property Manager

If you live in an apartment or lease office space and you notice that you need an AC repair, don’t try to fix it yourself. Speak with your landlord or property manager to find out if they need to call in the experts or if you do, and get information about payment and other factors that concern you. Getting the issue resolved quickly is important, but you also want to ensure it is done correctly and that all parties involved understand how to move forward.

A Local AC Repair Company

Going local when it comes to AC repair is important because you won’t have to worry about finding them when something goes wrong. When someone sweeps into town during the peak season (such as right as the weather gets warm) and everyone starts turning on the units, you’ll find that they may do a quick job that lasts for a little bit, but can’t be found when you need the same AC repair again. Going with a local company that has a good reputation will be a wise choice and one that you can call on for years down the road.

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Sometimes, it’s hard stay in control of finances because so many unexpected things can pop up from car troubles to air conditioning problems. While these times can be disheartening and make you go back to the drawing board of your budget, there are a few things that you can do. If you want to stay in control of AC repairs costs, here are a few tips that you can follow to help you get started.

Start Saving Now

Even saving forty dollars a month for a year will give you almost five hundred dollars for AC repairs and will cover most service calls, and even take the edge off of major repairs. Because you shouldn’t need AC repairs on a routine basis (unless you have a very old unit or one that wasn’t installed correctly), you should have time to really put back a bit of emergency money for things like air conditioning repair. As you watch your fund grow, you can start using some of the money for smaller things like air filters and annual service calls.

Keep Up with Maintenance

If you want to be in control of AC repair costs, then you should never put off routine maintenance like changing out filters and keeping the components of your unit clean. So many people don’t realize that this is one of the most inexpensive ways to ensure that your energy bill stays down and your unit needs fewer repairs.

Practice Energy Efficiency

If you want to stay in control of AC repair costs, then practice energy efficiency throughout your home from the windows to the attic. Your air conditioning unit will work more efficiently when air isn’t escaping and isn’t working continually to fight for the thermostat settings you’ve chosen. By taking a few simple steps, you can insulate your home and see some major savings on your energy bill.

Invest in a New Thermostat

Sometimes you have to spend a little money to save a lot of money, and new thermostats will give you more control when you are in the home, as well as when you are away. Because of new technology, you’ll find that you can control the temperatures of your space remotely to ensure that your unit isn’t working harder than it should when you aren’t there to enjoy the temperatures.

Find a Reputable Company You Can Stick With

You don’t just want to hire someone that you meet in the filter aisle of the grocery store to handle your AC repair needs. If you want to stay in control of costs, your should find a HVAC company that will be there every time you call them and will have an understanding of your unit. It’s frustrating when someone handles the install or AC repair only to find that they are unavailable when you call again. Find a reputable company that works in your location and is available with comprehensive services, and you’ll find that the process is seamless and convenient at every appointment.

Know When to Throw in the Towel and Upgrade

Sometimes the best thing you can do to control costs is knowing when your AC is beyond repair. Although the thought of a large up-front cost for a new AC system can be daunting, it will save you a lot of money, time and worry in the future. Many reputable companies will offer financing to help you spread the cost out over time.

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When you need an AC repair, it might seem like a minor thing. Maybe you hear a small clanking noise or the air flow is okay but just not as good as it once was, but you put it off because life gets busy and it’s not a huge inconvenience. However, when you let those little air conditioning repairs go, it can actually have a scary impact on your home. Here are a few reasons to keep up with those repairs so that you can rest easy at night knowing that your home and family are healthy and safe.

The Air Quality Will Go Down

With the right maintenance, your HVAC unit will keep your home filtered and improve the quality if air. But when you don’t change out filters on a regular basis and ignore small repairs that will improve the air flow, then you’ll find that the air quality will suffer.

Dust Mites Can Become a Problem

It’s important that you don’t neglect the maintenance and AC repairs because this will help keep dust levels down, and dust mites away. When they take over your home, they’ll snack on pet skin as well as people, and they’ll leave fecal matter in spaces that you use on a regular basis. To prevent these from becoming a problem, make sure that you keep up with repairs and maintenance for your heating and cooling system.

Your Allergies Will React

If you have bad allergies, then you’ll want to make sure that you take care of all AC repairs immediately. To keep the quality of air clean and indoor allergies away, then you need to change filters and make sure that your unit is working in proper condition. You’ll appreciate that you have a space to find relief from the sneezing and itchy eyes that happen to those who suffer from allergies.

You Give Rodents a Chance to Invade

If you discover that the air flow isn’t providing you with the comfort levels that you’re used to, then there is a chance that you need to check your ducts for invaders. When rodents find their way into the AC ductwork, you’ll want immediate repairs because you don’t want to leave this entryway open for more wildlife to get through. As soon as you detect the signs of mice or rats in your home, have someone check to see if they are entering through parts of the unit.

You End Up with Major AC Repairs

If you put off AC repairs because you are scared of the cost, then you should be aware that small repairs can be affordable and you can get a quote beforehand if you’re worried about breaking the budget. Small repairs will prevent major problems that come with bigger price tags, and you’ll want to be proactive so that you can save money in the long run. Don’t put off that AC repair any longer to ensure that you have a healthy and durable unit.

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Saving money is at the top of everyone’s list these days, and when it comes to AC repair, it can seem that we’re never prepared for the bill. However, there are ways that you can save those precious dollars on your next air conditioning repair – and trust that they aren’t as hard or time consuming as you think! Here are a few tips to help you prevent that next AC repair and save money when you do need one.

Get Everyone Involved

Whether it’s co-workers fighting over the set temperature in the office or it’s your family leaving doors open when the air conditioning is on in the summer, if you don’t have everyone on the same page when it comes to your AC unit, you’ll find that it’s the one suffering. Get everyone involved in how to treat the unit throughout the day and night, and signs to look for in case it needs a repair. Most people will be more than happy to oblige by the rules because it can be miserable when your unit goes out and you have to wait for an AC repair in the middle of the summer.

Be Diligent About Filters

Keeping your filters changed and cleaned on a regular basis has a lot to do with how many AC repairs you’ll need in the future. While most people stick to changing filters every thirty days, be mindful that each workspace and household is different in the amount of dirt and debris that they accumulate. If you have pets or multiple people living in the home, then there is a good chance you should be changing your filters more often. However, if it’s just you at home, you can change them less.

Consider Energy Efficient Solutions

Your windows and even the color of your home can cause your AC unit to work harder and need more repairs. Talk to the professionals about your best options for a few home improvements that will give your home more energy efficiency, and your unit will thank you because it won’t have to work as hard. You’ll not only add longevity to your AC unit and need fewer repairs, but you’ll save money on your energy bill.

Start Weatherizing Your Home

So you can’t (or don’t want to) afford new windows – that’s okay. What you can do is weatherize your space so that you keep it sealed. There are inexpensive ways to easily board up windows and attic spaces, and you should have your AC unit serviced once a year. During the yearly maintenance, you can ask the pros for weatherizing tips for your particular property.

Go with a Company You Trust

Going with a reliable and experienced company is essential for fewer AC repairs. When repairs are handled correctly the first time, then you’ll discover that your unit has those lasting qualities that keep us cool (and our wallets full). You’ll find that hiring an AC repair company will make life easier – and is much more affordable than you realize when you go with the pros.

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Most people don’t put a lot of thought into AC repair until they find themselves making a call because their home isn’t cooling the way it should. And even then, people may be reluctant to call because they hope that a problem will correct itself or they simply don’t know what the cost will be. Here are four things you need to know about AC repair so that you can put your mind at ease and make that call with confidence, or prevent the repairs all together.

#1: It Can Usually Be Prevented

AC repair can be prevented by changing your filter on a regular basis, as well as by scheduling professional maintenance on an annual basis. You should also take the time to check the outside of your unit for debris and plant life such as vines that could be invading your fan and other aspects. The more you understand the simple steps you can take for AC repair prevention, the less you’ll have to deal with an HVAC unit that isn’t producing cool air the way it should be.

#2: There Are Certain AC Repairs You Can DIY

It can be easy to look past your air conditioner as you go about your busy day. Often it can be an afterthought, so it’s important to know that when your unit isn’t working the way it should, there are a few things you can do. The first is to check your filter to ensure that it isn’t clogged because this will affect the air flow and how well your unit performs. You can also visually examine your ducts, clean the outside of your unit, and check to make sure the breaker isn’t tripped if you notice it isn’t working.

#3: It’s Not as Expensive as You Think

So many people don’t call in the pros for AC repair because they don’t know what the cost will be, but they fear it will be high and out of their budget. Don’t be afraid to let the air conditioning company know what your budget is for the repair and find out how they can help. When you’re proactive and pay attention to your AC unit, you’ll find that the repairs are affordable and prevent much larger (and much more expensive) issues from affecting your system.

#4: Not All AC Repair Companies Are the Same

When you hire an AC repair company, there are a few qualities that you should expect. It’s vital to your experience and the quality of work that the company is insured and has the proper certifications to install and repair your air conditioning system. You want a reputable company that is located in your area and is easy to reach. Speak with their customer service to find out more about how the can help with financing, if they show up on time, and get any of your questions answered. You can also look to reviews to see what others have said about their experience.

#5: Quality AC Brands Are Important

When you get an AC repair or new installation, you’ll want to speak with the experts about the different brands and components available so that you get a lasting outcome. They’ll guide you through the unique features and qualities of the brands so that you can find the one that meets your needs, as well as financial parameters.

#6: The Process Is Quick

If you don’t think you have time to get that AC repair, think again! The best companies will be ready to schedule an appointment at your convenience and will show up on time to get the job done. While each project will differ from the next, the technician will be promptly start the process and get it done correctly the first time so that you don’t miss out on your day playing the waiting game.

#7: You Can’t Predict When You’ll Need It

While you would like to think that you will easily be alerted when an issue is going to arise with your air conditioning, this just isn’t the case. Taking care of your AC unit and being proactive when you need a repair is going to save the most money and time. However, air conditioning units age, and over time, will demand certain repairs be made and you simply can’t predict when that is going to happen. The best way to combat this is to know the AC repair company ahead of time so that you have quick contact to call when a situation arises.

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