Why Skipping AC Tune-Ups Can Cost You More Later. Skipping your air conditioner’s annual tune-up might seem like a small way to save money now, but it often leads to higher costs down the road. Neglecting regular AC maintenance can leave you coming home to a hot, humid home on the day you need cooling most. Routine maintenance keeps your system running efficiently and helps catch potential issues early, preventing breakdowns. Additionally, manufacturer warranties are typically voided if annual, professional maintenance is not performed.
Let’s explore exactly why an annual AC tune-up from SmartHouse is a smart investment for St. Louis homeowners. We’ll cover:
- Higher energy bills
- More frequent and expensive repairs
- Shorter system lifespan
- Poor indoor air quality
- Reduced comfort
- Voided warranty
Reduced Efficiency = Higher Energy Bills
A neglected air conditioner is forced to work harder to cool your home, leading to significantly higher energy consumption.
- According to the U.S. Department of Energy, even one year without a tune-up can increase energy usage by 5–15%.
- Dusty coils, clogged filters, and improper refrigerant levels cause the system to run inefficiently.
- Regular maintenance keeps your AC running smoothly, ensuring lower monthly energy costs.
More Frequent & Costly Repairs
Small problems that could be identified and fixed during regular maintenance often escalate into larger, more expensive repairs.
- Issues like refrigerant leaks, worn belts, or dirty coils are easily caught during tune-ups.
- Emergency repairs during peak summer heat are expensive and harder to schedule.
- Regular maintenance reduces unexpected breakdowns, saving you stress and money.
Shorter System Lifespan
Your AC system is a significant investment designed to last 15–20 years with proper care.
- Neglected AC systems experience accelerated wear and tear, reducing their lifespan significantly.
- Without regular tune-ups, some systems may fail prematurely, forcing an early and costly replacement.
- Annual maintenance increases the reliability of your AC within its lifespan.
Poor Indoor Air Quality
An improperly maintained AC can severely impact your home’s indoor air quality.
- Dirt, mold, pollen, and other allergens accumulate in neglected AC systems.
- These contaminants circulate throughout your home, worsening allergies and respiratory conditions.
- Routine maintenance not only includes inspection and fine-tuning of your system, it also includes cleaning the system and changing the 1″ air filter, boosting your indoor air quality.
Reduced Comfort & Performance
A poorly maintained AC struggles to provide consistent cooling, particularly during peak summer temperatures.
- You might experience weak airflow, uneven cooling, or a system unable to maintain your desired comfort levels.
- Regular tune-ups ensure your AC performs reliably when you need it most, maintaining a comfortable home environment.
- Higher indoor humidity is also common when your system isn’t performing properly, adding to discomfort.
Voided Warranty Coverage
Most air conditioner warranties require proof of annual professional maintenance to keep your warranty coverage intact.
- Skipping tune-ups can void your manufacturer’s warranty leaving you responsible for costs which would normally be covered under warranty.
- Regular professional maintenance keeps your warranty intact, ensuring coverage if your system experiences issues.
Why It Pays to Stay Ahead
Annual AC tune-ups from SmartHouse provide numerous benefits, including lower energy bills, enhanced comfort, better indoor air quality, reduced chance of unexpected failure, and warranty protection. Investing in regular AC maintenance is an easy way to avoid unnecessary costs and headaches later.
FAQs About AC Tune-Ups
How often should I schedule an AC tune-up?
Manufacturer and HVAC experts recommend annual AC maintenance.
Can skipping maintenance affect indoor air quality?
Yes. Neglected AC systems accumulate dirt, mold, pollen and other allergens, negatively impacting indoor air quality and potentially exacerbating health issues.
What’s included in a typical AC tune-up from SmartHouse?
Our AC Tune-up Services include:
- Check Thermostat
- Replace air filter (1” filter included in price)
- Inspect blower for dirt build up
- Clean condensate drain
- Check for air leaks at indoor unit
- Clean condenser coil
- Remove build up from condenser unit bottom
- Check all motor bearings
- Lubricate moving parts as required
- Test voltage
- Test amp draw
- Check wiring and tighten where needed
- Test unit run capacitors
- Check for proper fuse size for unit protection
- Monitor unit refrigerant charge and cycle
- Measure indoor temperature differential
- Test controls and safety devices
- Inspect indoor coil if accessible
- Clean blower compartment
- Visual inspection for refrigerant leaks
- Test condensate pump where needed
- Check return and supply static pressure
- Calculate blower cfm
- Calculate unit performance
- Make recommendations regarding repairs or improvements needed to ensure trouble-free operation
Will a tune-up help my system last longer?
Regular maintenance will improve the performance and reliability of your system within its expected lifespan and may extend its lifespan by catching minor issues early, which reduces wear and tear and keeps your system running efficiently.
Call Smarthouse to Schedule Your AC Tune-Up in St. Louis
Ready to schedule your AC tune-up in St. Louis? Call us at 314-370-1816, text us at 314-310-2242, or schedule your appointment online to ensure a cool, comfortable, and efficient home all summer long.
