Tag: spring

Why Schedule Air Conditioner Maintenance This Spring?

The Importance of Air Conditioner Maintenance

Air conditioning maintenance is crucial for keeping a home comfortable, the air conditioner reliable, and reducing the risk of expensive AC repair costs and high energy bills. Regular air conditioner tune-ups in the spring offer a dependable solution to avoid unexpected breakdowns in the summer months when air conditioning is needed most and soaring energy costs. This guide will discuss air conditioner maintenance, including its benefits, what it entails, and when it’s needed.

Benefits of Annual Air Conditioning Maintenance

save moneyScheduling annual air conditioning maintenance delivers many benefits that protect a homeowner’s investment in their cooling system. Regular AC servicing ensures optimal energy efficiency and performance. When an AC unit is well-maintained, it runs more efficiently, uses less energy, and saves homeowners money on cooling costs.

Professional maintenance, especially when done before the summer, helps prevent problems and costly breakdowns during the summer heat, helping avoid being stuck in an uncomfortable home until it can be fixed. Fewer problems and breakdowns also save homeowners money on air conditioner repair costs.

Beyond the more immediate performance and financial benefits, AC tune-ups also help extend the AC system's lifespan, providing long-term financial benefits. Most AC units typically last around 10 to 20 years before needing to be replaced. However, one factor that significantly affects the lifespan of air conditioners is how well they are maintained. When properly maintained, AC units can last for years longer, preventing the need for homeowners to pay for AC replacement earlier than needed.

What Does AC Maintenance Entail?

acProfessional air conditioning maintenance involves a thorough AC inspection and many important tasks to help prevent problems and keep the system operating efficiently. During an air conditioning tune-up, the technician performs a system inspection, examining components for potential issues or damage. Maintenance allows technicians to identify and address any minor issues before they escalate into major problems and more costly repairs, helping homeowners avoid future discomfort and unexpected service calls.

During AC maintenance, professionals can also clean the evaporator and condenser coils, which naturally accumulate dirt and debris over time. Dirty coils force the system to work harder and consume more energy, raising cooling costs, so this cleaning step is crucial for energy efficiency. They also check for loose electrical connections and tighten them as needed, preventing potential hazards and system failures. The technician will verify the thermostat's accuracy and check refrigerant levels to ensure optimal cooling performance. Low refrigerant from a refrigerant leak can significantly impact efficiency and cooling performance. These and other important maintenance tasks help keep the air conditioner running smoothly, efficiently, and last longer. 

How Often Is AC Maintenance Needed?

Professional air conditioner maintenance should be performed annually, ideally in the spring before the intense heat arrives. This timing ensures the AC system is energy efficient, works well, and is ready to handle the upcoming cooling demands of summer. Scheduling AC maintenance in spring allows technicians to identify and fix potential issues before they become costly emergencies or interrupt home comfort during the hottest months of the year.

Additionally, scheduling air conditioner maintenance once a year in the spring is also beneficial because HVAC companies typically have more flexible scheduling options in spring compared to their peak summer rush. As temperatures begin to rise, professionals are often busier with air conditioner repair and replacement. 

While annual maintenance is crucial, homeowners can also perform an important maintenance task more frequently. Air filter replacement is needed more often than professional maintenance, typically every 1-3 months, depending on the filter size, type, and a home's conditions, such as whether there are pets that shed. Households with pets, people with allergies, or high dust levels should replace filters more often. Have homeowners noticed higher energy bills or dust accumulating more quickly? These often signal a clogged or dirty air filter that needs to be changed. Regular AC filter changes improve indoor air quality, energy efficiency, system longevity, and keep energy costs down.  

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions has over four decades of experience serving the Austin community. They provide flat-rate pricing, financing solutions, and personable and experienced staff. Call them for air conditioner maintenance and repair services in Austin, TX.

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Use Local Handyman Services for Spring Cleaning Tasks

Start Spring Cleaning and Home Repairs

Spring is a busy season for homeowners. With the change in the weather, most homeowners feel the pressure to get some tasks done around the home to tidy things up after a long winter and prepare for the summer. Many people have a full checklist of tasks to be done around the home and very little time to complete them. Why not use some expert help to start ticking things off the spring cleaning checklist faster? 

Handyman services are available to help with various tasks around the home. By hiring professionals, homeowners get the convenience of getting things done quickly with assurance that the people who help them will be experienced and do it right. Here are some examples of things that professional handymen can do for the home. 

Gutter Cleaning and Power Washing 

Gutters are vital to the overall performance and safety of the home. While they may seem like mundane accessories, gutters protect the home against foundation damage and wood rot along the rooflines. When gutters can’t drain quickly because of leaves and debris, water can back up and cause rot. Additionally, water can pool around the home and compromise the foundation. Instead of tip-toeing along a ladder, why not get professionals to clean the gutters? Handymen can clean gutters and haul away the debris quickly and safely. 

In addition to gutter cleaning, exterior power washing is a common springtime task. Removing dirt and mildew around the home can brighten the appearance and help concrete and wooden structures last longer. Instead of purchasing or renting an expensive power washer, simply hire a handyman who already has one. 

Wood Rot Repairs 

windowThe extra moisture that comes during the winter can waterlog exterior wood structures. This hastens wood rot and causes faster degrading of siding, decks, fences, and more. With the change in the weather, many homeowners will want to head outside to make repairs only to find that the problem is beyond their scope of experience. 

By hiring a handyman service, homeowners can have wood rot repair completed right by an experienced professional. This allows the homeowner to focus on other items on the spring checklist or other things they need to while also stopping the damage to wood outside the house. 

Deck and Fence Repairs 

deckDuring the spring and summer, everyone will want to spend more time in outdoor spaces, enjoying decks, patios, and backyard areas. However, these spaces may look dated or rundown during a party or gathering without the right preparations. Additionally, it can be dangerous when decks and fences are broken. 

Handymen can install and repair decks and fences, ensuring the deck is safe for use and that fences aren’t broken and keep pets inside the yard. By calling professionals for fence and deck repairs, homeowners can enjoy their time doing other things while having peace of mind that the repairs will be done correctly.  

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions is a family-owned and operated company serving the Austin area. They offer personable and experienced staff, flat-rate pricing, and financing. Call them for handyman services in Austin, TX. 

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Install a Deck or Patio for Outdoor Entertaining This Spring

Consider a Deck Installation to Enjoy Outdoor Spaces 

Warmer weather is coming, and homeowners finally have an excuse to use their outdoor spaces more. When temperatures warm up, there is nothing better than having friends and family over to enjoy the yard. But, for the perfect atmosphere, homeowners need space for entertaining. 

Decks and patios are the perfect options for homeowners looking to improve their outdoor spaces and prepare them for entertaining. Here is some information about installing decks and patios to help homeowners start thinking about entertaining in their outdoor spaces. 

Designing or Improving Decks and Patios 

kitchen deckConstructing the perfect outdoor space is a big project, but it all starts with the design process. A patio or deck installation is a great place to start, but they can be customized with different design options and enhancements to improve the space. Start by thinking of everything that needs to take place in the space. Will there need to be food prepared? Are bugs going to be a problem? Some enhancements and customizations that can be added to decks and patios include things like:

  • Adding a pergola creates a great structure for outdoor lighting 
  • Adding a gazebo to the deck or patio creates shade from the sun and a cover from rain
  • Installing an outdoor kitchen is great for outdoor entertaining and barbeques
  • Installing a screened-in patio prevents bugs from getting in

Once homeowners have a better idea of what they want with their outdoor space, they can more easily consult with the experts to make their dreams a reality. 

Choosing Materials for Decks and Outdoor Spaces 

deckOnce a design and vision are agreed upon, the homeowner has some decisions to make regarding building and decking materials. Outdoor spaces need to be stylish and durable while also fitting within a homeowner’s budget. Luckily, there are plenty of building materials to choose from. A few of the choices for durable materials used for decks and their pros and cons are: 

  • Pressure-Treated Wood: Pressure-treated wood is one of the cheapest and most common choices for a deck. Pressure-treated wood is inexpensive but can last as long as 40 years with good upkeep. Cheap grades of pressure-treated lumber may be prone to shrinking, expanding, or twisting after installation. 
  • Trex Decking: Trex is the latest industry standard for composite decking. It is made of recycled plastic and sawdust, making it the best choice for an eco-friendly deck. Trex is more expensive than lumber but can last just as long with less upkeep. 
  • Cedar: Cedar is a great natural, sustainable choice. While it is more expensive than other options, it offers exceptional resistance to weather and wood-eating insects. Cedar will need resealing every few years to maximize its longevity and appearance. 

Professionals can help homeowners decide on the best materials for their project based on factors like budget and the environment in which they are installed.

Hiring Professionals to Do the Work

Outdoor spaces are a significant investment for homeowners, and they can pay dividends in entertainment and resale value for the home. With this in mind, homeowners should always hire professionals to design and build outdoor spaces like patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens. 

Using professional help can prevent homeowners from making mistakes or having regrets about things like layout and material choice. Professionals have the experience and knowledge to ensure everything is done correctly, the best materials are used, and the space is durable. This ensures that homeowners will have a long-lasting space that can be used for years to come.

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving Austin and the surrounding areas for more than four decades. They provide flat-rate pricing and financing and are remodeling and handyman experts. Call them for deck installation and repair in Austin, TX.

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Don't Forget AC Coil Cleaning During Spring Cleaning Tasks

 Stop Dirty AC Coils From Robbing the System’s Performance

Temperatures are still mild, but in a few weeks, every AC in the area will be humming along, doing vital work to beat the heat. During the summer, one of the biggest complaints from homeowners is that the air conditioner simply can’t keep up with the demand, which is evident in the skyrocketing energy bills. Wouldn’t it be great if there was a simple, cheap service that could protect the performance of the air conditioner?

Luckily, AC professionals have an easy answer to this problem that can restore lost cooling power and reduce the likelihood of complications during the summer. During seasonal chore time this spring, remember to call the AC maintenance experts to handle coil cleaning and maintenance before the summer heats up.

Benefits of a Clean Condenser Coil

condenser coilsThe condenser coil lives in the outside unit as part of the compressor unit, where it is exposed to the hazards of nature. Like the evaporator coil, the condenser coil can become fouled with dust and plant matter as seasonal storms roll in, kicking up dust and causing rapid plant growth.

Airflow is key to ensuring the condenser coil performs its job well. Removing the dust and debris from the condenser coil every year is the best thing a homeowner can do to prevent a loss of efficiency over the summer.

Benefits of Clean Evaporator Coils

evaporator coilsAll of the air in the home passes across the evaporator coils several times per cycle when the air conditioner is running. The evaporator coil is the structure that provides cooling power to the system while simultaneously removing humidity. When dirty air passes over the cool, moist coil, dust, and dander stick to the coil, and this can cause mold and bacterial growth that continually gets pumped out into the home.

In addition to ruining the air quality, a dirty AC coil can greatly reduce efficiency in the unit. When airflow is interrupted across the coil, the system must run longer to compensate for the lost energy. This leads to high bills in addition to poor air quality.

Cleaning the evaporator coil in the spring when needed removes contaminants that are harmful to the health of those in the home. This process also restores cooling power so homeowners can live in cleaner air and pay less on their monthly bills. The need to clean the evaporator coil can be avoided by changing your filter regularly.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tasks During Coil Maintenance

AC coil cleaning is a fast and simple process usually done during scheduled seasonal maintenance. To clean the evaporator coil and condenser coil, technicians expose the coils and spray them with foaming detergents that break up and lift away dust and grime. They may use hoses or water to rinse the coils after allowing the chemicals to remove the grime. The result is shiny coils that effectively transfer heat so the system works at peak efficiency. This noticeably lowers bills and prevents bigger problems from arising over the summer.

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions started nearly 50 years ago, installing and maintaining AC systems in the area. They are pioneers in home efficiency, aiming to lower the bills and carbon footprints of every home. Call today for experienced and professional AC service, including evaporator coil services in Austin, TX.

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Why Spring is a Great Time for AC Maintenance

Get Maintenance on the AC Now to Prepare it for the Hot Summer Months!

To make sure an air conditioner is running at its best when households need cool air most, it's important to get maintenance done on the air conditioner before the hot summer months arrive. Typically air conditioning systems require annual maintenance, and the best time for it is in the spring to catch any issues before it gets heavy use. Routine air conditioning maintenance has many benefits, and this blog post will discuss them. 

An AC Tune-Up Means a More Energy-Efficient System

saveRegular maintenance from a professional HVAC technician is critical to ensuring the energy efficiency of an air conditioning system. This means that a well-maintained HVAC system uses less energy, and lower energy consumption results in lower utility bills over time, saving homeowners money. 

A professional can perform various tasks during an AC tune-up, including cleaning or replacing the air filter, checking refrigerant levels, cleaning the evaporator coil, and lubricating moving parts. These tasks help prevent dirt and debris buildup, which can reduce airflow and make the system work harder to cool a home. Additionally, they may check for any air leaks or blockages in the ducts to ensure that cool air is not escaping, further improving the system’s energy efficiency.

Maintenance Now Means Fewer Repairs Later

hvacRegular maintenance of an air conditioner is vital to ensuring its reliable performance and fewer surprise repairs. By scheduling routine tune-ups with an HVAC technician, homeowners can help their AC stay in top shape, allowing it to run efficiently for longer periods and reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns. 

During a maintenance visit, a professional will inspect all the air conditioner’s components, checking for any issues or malfunctions. This careful attention can help identify small problems before they become more costly repairs. Investing in maintenance now can help homeowners save even more money in the long run by preventing unexpected repairs.

Maintenance Extends the Life of the Unit

Another significant benefit of regular maintenance of an air conditioner is that it can help extend its lifespan and prevent the need for an early replacement. This is especially important when living in a hot climate and using the AC frequently throughout the year because routine maintenance is cheaper than replacing the entire unit. 

Maintenance helps keep all the parts in good working order and allows the AC unit to last as long as possible. This also saves homeowners money by prolonging the life of their air conditioners and gives them peace of mind because they don’t have to worry about frequent repairs or replacements.

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions is a family-owned and operated business serving Austin and the surrounding areas for more than 45 years. They provide flat-rate pricing, easy financing solutions, and a beneficial maintenance plan. Call them today for air conditioning maintenance in Austin, TX.

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