It’s officially Halloween season now! While it is true that both kids and adults enjoy a good scare around Halloween, most homeowners would rather not face certain very real-world terrors in their own homes. A malfunctioning central HVAC system is only among the most terrible things that can scare us more than the Halloween vibe could. From airflow problems to pest infestations, there is no telling how severe poor AC maintenance can haunt you, depending on when you last got one. Rocket Heating AC Repair will review some horrifying AC scenarios that can arise if you do not take maintenance seriously. Take the time to read these eleven likely consequences:
- Sudden Loss of Thermal Capacity
Sitting idle all summer has let your heater rest and be free of burden because of the mild weather, but when the evening temperatures in the fall drop, every homeowner would want to turn it on to warm the house. If it had not gotten its yearly tune-up, it may not function as well as it should when you need it most.
Maintenance checks on AC systems can detect and fix minor problems before they become catastrophic breakdowns. As a result, you won’t have to deal with the fright and chill of Halloween without the comfort of a warm or cool home.
- Less Efficiency
Many problems can arise with your AC system if you don’t keep it well-maintained for your machinery, home, and budget. A fully operational system relies on regular cleaning, problem detection, preventative maintenance, and repair.
Not only that, but it is important to remember that no air conditioner will last forever. Yours will last for a lesser amount of time if subjected to additional stress. This is just one more reason why regular maintenance saves money. If you do not keep up with regular AC servicing, you may have to replace your current AC system sooner than you hoped.
- Compressor Failure
When the condenser coils are dirty, the compressor has to work harder than necessary, reducing its lifespan and increasing the likelihood of a breakdown that will cost you money. Cleaning the coils as part of routine AC maintenance can significantly extend the life of your compressor to keep cool during this year’s Halloween experience.
- Clogged Drainage
Have you discovered water damage around the air conditioner’s coils? Perhaps there is a blockage in the condensation drain. This occurs because dirt and other particles settle into the catchbasin and eventually block the drain. You’ll need a pump to flush the debris out of the pipe and restore its original condition. A qualified AC technician is your best bet for the speedy and easy dirt removal.
- Freon Leaks
A specific refrigerant volume must be present in your air conditioner for it to work. An improperly charged air conditioner during installation may be to blame for your current predicament. When your refrigerant level drops, it is important to stop the leak helping to reduce it. If you refill your refrigerant without fixing the leak, you will likely encounter the same issue soon because the refrigerant recycles through the coils.
Even minor leaks can cause a 20% or more decrease in your system’s efficiency. Do not let a simple problem like this persist! A comprehensive system tune-up can easily locate and fix a leaking refrigerant.
- Motor and Bearing Problems
Lubricating the motor and bearings in the AC system is necessary to ensure its smooth operation. Without it, the motor can overheat and cause an otherwise avoidable breakdown. Certainly, you do not want to be soaked in your own sweat in your Halloween costumes.
- Soaring Energy Bills
A well-maintained air conditioner will allow you to enjoy the coolest possible indoor air quality while performing at peak efficiency. However, you deprive yourself of these advantages without adequate AC maintenance when your system has to work harder to maintain the best temperature in your home.
The result? A downright terrifying electric bill just in time for a scary Halloween. This is a significant factor in how regularly servicing your AC system can reduce expenses.
- Temperature Fluctuations
Everything does not need to fail for a system to stop functioning as it should. Lack of maintenance on an AC system often results in uneven cooling performance. Perhaps it only cools some rooms, or perhaps it only works occasionally.
A fluctuating temperature limits your indoor comfort, so it is best to remember how crucial your AC system’s consistent cooling capability is. You are doing yourself a favor when you take good care of your AC.
- Poor Indoor Air Quality
When servicing your AC system, do not forget about the ducts. If you do not clean it frequently, all sorts of nasty stuff can build up inside it. If these toxins are in the air, your AC system could spread them throughout the house.
Indoor air quality issues can have a negative impact on your comfort and health, but you may prevent this by working with professionals to maintain clean ducting.
- Putrid Odors
One more thing that can happen if you do not clean your ducts is that they will start to smell bad. This might happen if an animal somehow finds its way inside. When animals seek shelter from the cold in your ducting, you may notice an unpleasant odor throughout the colder months. They get stuck and can’t seem to get out. They will ultimately die, and when they do, they will leave a distinct stench.
- Pests Infestation
Unsettling problems that might arise with your AC system include pest infestation, which may also cause unpleasant smells to waft inside your home. Rodents and other pests can wreak havoc in your home’s ducts and insulation, leading to potential diseases. Notify a specialist immediately if you see bugs in or near your AC system.
Are you experiencing any of the listed problems above? It is best not to take chances and hire our professional AC team to help you immediately.
It is normal to still have questions floating around your mind about your HVAC system maintenance. Learn more about it by reading more of our blog articles or connecting with us at Rocket Heating AC Repair directly for advice.