Your HVAC system is probably like a lot of components around your home: you don’t give it much thought until it breaks down. But, when it happens, it can be inconvenient and even dangerous.

Many people have turned to routine AC maintenance to avoid unexpected outages. Therein lies the problem: If there’s nothing wrong with your system, how do you know you need maintenance?

The good news is that there are a few prominent signs that it is time to schedule AC maintenance service. This article covers three of the main ones, so that you can ensure your Port Charlotte HVAC system is running as efficiently as possible.

1. Strange Noises

If you hear strange noises or your AC seems to be running louder than usual, it could be time to call a Port Charlotte AC maintenance service. Coming out of the winter months, it may be hard to tell if your system is running normally. Unusual sounds may not get louder over time, but they will not likely go away on their own.

Err on the side of caution. If your AC is making even a faint sound that you think is out of the ordinary, it could be a sign that there is a problem. The good news is that these are often minor issues, such as a loose belt, that are easy and inexpensive to fix.

2. Higher Energy Bills

Like many complex machines, broken HVAC systems can sometimes keep running, but less efficiently. Problems with your AC can lead to higher energy costs, since the unit has to work harder to achieve the same output.

Basic tasks like cleaning condenser coils, inspecting ductwork for leaks, or lubricating various parts can go a long way to getting your system back up to speed. These fixes also can help you avoid breakdowns, increase the life of your system, and save you on energy costs.

A challenge with this approach is that inefficiencies can develop over time. Also, you can’t expect any system to function as well 10 years down the road as it did when you first had it installed.

One easy thing to do is keep a running list of your monthly statements. If you notice that your bill seems to be higher than the same month of the previous year, it may be worth scheduling maintenance.

3. A Long Time Since Your Last AC Maintenance

Even if everything seems to be running fine, you may have AC components that are hanging on by a very thin thread. Like other mechanical devices, your AC system needs regular tune-ups. This helps catch minor problems before they become big ones.

Most AC maintenance service plans include at least two checkups a year. When you schedule these may depend on where you live, but the spring and fall (before you get into harsh temperatures of summer and winter) is a good rule of thumb.

The most important thing is that you do not go too long between maintenance visits. This will help you stay on top of every component in the system. It also will give you the peace of mind that your AC is running at the highest capacity and efficiency going forward.

Find Port Charlotte Air Conditioning Maintenance

Now that you are aware of the three main signs that you need to do AC maintenance, you can stay on top of things. Doing so will make your system more reliable and will save you money in the long run.

For more than 40 years, Cliff’s Air Conditioning and Heating has been a premier Port Charlotte AC repair, maintenance, and installation company. We pride ourselves on customer service and doing everything we can to help lower your energy bills.

Reach out to us today to schedule maintenance or other services.