How Regular Maintenance Can Prevent Costly AC Repairs

In Durham, NC, where summers can be intense, a well-functioning air conditioning system is essential. However, without regular maintenance, your AC might be on a path to costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns. Regular maintenance is not just about keeping your home cool; it’s about saving money, increasing efficiency, and extending the life of your system. This article will explore the essential maintenance tasks that can prevent expensive repairs and keep your AC running smoothly.

How Regular Maintenance Can Prevent Costly AC Repairs

Benefits of Regular AC Maintenance

Improved Efficiency

Regular maintenance ensures that your AC operates at peak efficiency, which is crucial during Durham’s hot summers. Tasks like replacing filters and cleaning coils reduce the energy your unit uses, leading to lower utility bills and a consistently comfortable home.

Extended Lifespan of the Unit

Just like a car, your AC needs regular check-ups to perform well over time. Maintenance reduces wear and tear on components, catching small issues before they turn into major, costly problems. This proactive care can add years to the life of your unit, saving you the expense of premature replacement.

Prevention of Major Breakdowns

One of the biggest advantages of regular maintenance is the prevention of sudden, major breakdowns. During a maintenance visit, technicians can identify potential failures, such as a worn-out motor or a refrigerant leak, before they cause a complete system shutdown. Avoiding these unexpected breakdowns is particularly important during the peak summer season in Durham, where repair services may be in high demand.

Key Maintenance Tasks to Prevent Costly Repairs

Replacing Air Filters

One of the simplest yet most effective maintenance tasks is replacing your air filters regularly. In Durham’s pollen-heavy environment, filters can become clogged quickly, reducing airflow and causing your system to work harder than necessary. Replacing filters every 1-3 months can prevent overheating and ensure your system runs smoothly.

Cleaning the Condenser Coils

Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate on the outdoor unit’s condenser coils. If left unchecked, this buildup can cause your system to overheat and potentially fail. Regular cleaning, ideally performed by a professional, ensures the coils are free of debris and the system is operating efficiently.

Checking and Refilling Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant levels can severely impact your AC’s performance, leading to higher energy bills and less effective cooling. Signs of low refrigerant include ice on the coils and poor cooling performance. Because handling refrigerants requires specialized knowledge and certification, it’s essential to have a professional check and refill these levels during regular maintenance.

Inspecting Electrical Components

Electrical issues are one of the most common causes of AC failures. Loose connections, worn-out capacitors, and failing motors can all lead to system breakdowns. During a maintenance visit, a technician will inspect these components to ensure everything is functioning properly, preventing the need for more expensive repairs down the road.

Examining and Clearing the Drain Line

The drain line is responsible for removing condensation from your AC system. If it becomes clogged, it can lead to water damage inside your home and potentially cause mold growth. Regularly clearing the drain line helps prevent these issues and keeps your AC running efficiently.

When to Schedule Maintenance

Bi-Annual Maintenance Schedule

To keep your AC in top shape, it’s recommended to schedule maintenance twice a year—once in the spring before the cooling season begins and again in the fall. This schedule ensures that your system is ready to handle Durham’s hot summers and that any issues are addressed before they escalate.

Indicators You Need Immediate Maintenance

Even with regular maintenance, certain signs indicate your AC needs immediate attention. Unusual noises like rattling or hissing, poor cooling performance, or frequent cycling on and off are all red flags. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more significant, costly repairs.

Choosing the Right Maintenance Plan

Benefits of a Professional Maintenance Plan

Enrolling in a professional maintenance plan offers convenience and peace of mind. These plans often include comprehensive inspections, cleaning, and priority service, ensuring that your AC system receives the care it needs without you having to remember to schedule each visit.

What to Look for in a Maintenance Plan

When choosing a maintenance plan, look for one that employs certified, experienced technicians who understand the specific needs of Durham homes. A local company will be familiar with the common AC issues in the area and can provide tailored care to keep your system running smoothly.

Book Hays for AC Maintenance in Durham, NC

Regular AC maintenance is a crucial investment for homeowners in Durham, NC. It not only improves efficiency and extends the lifespan of your unit but also prevents costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns. By keeping up with key maintenance tasks and scheduling regular check-ups, you can ensure your AC system remains reliable and effective, providing comfort throughout the hottest months. Don’t wait for a breakdown—schedule your maintenance today to protect your investment and keep your home cool.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Browse Our Special Offers
$200 Off Qualifying Trane Systems*



*on systems 17 SEER or greater.

Free Replacement Quotes

Call (919) 471-8020 to schedule.

10% Off for First-Time New Customers

Eligible for customers that have service repair needs.

See What Our Happy Clients Say

What a great experience! I called Hays and the office staff was so accommodating and friendly. They communicated clearly professionally. The technician called me about 30 min before arriving, quickly diagnosed the issue and have me a clear understanding of the issue. My unit was back up and running within 30 minutes.

Kristal J.

On the recommendation of a friend, I called Hay’s for my spring a/c maintenance. The service was great. The technician was pleasant and helpful. For once, I didn’t feel like a heating and air company was trying to take advantage of me. Pricing was very reasonable. I will definitely use them

Sarah M.

Several of my HVAC units were struggling to cool given the 95+ degree temperatures. I called Hay’s and they sent Brad out to see what was going on. Hay’s installed the HVAC units 15 years ago. Brad wore a mask. He cleaned all of our units and added refrigerant. Brad worked swiftly and efficiently.

Doug H.

Brad was AMAZING!!! When our air conditioner stopped working last night, we were worried that it would be days before someone would be out to look at it. We woke up and the house was 10 degrees warmer than when we went to bed. We were told that someone would be out at noon…

Kristin W.

What can I say about Hay’s? The professionals who work there, from Rosemary to Jeff, the technician, are amazing people. Management is doing an outstanding job with everything. I highly recommend this company. They not only deliver on their high quality service, but…

Anna K.

The Hay’s Heating & Air Conditioning company has always been Johney on the spot as to getting someone out quickly as needed, made the repair or ordered the part. The serviceman also kept me informed of what repairs were made and service was done on their visit.

John T.

Our Affiliates

Skip to content