What Happens When You Skip AC Maintenance? Costs & Risks

Certain important HVAC components in our homes require seasonal maintenance to function optimally, and your air conditioner is no exception. Skipping AC maintenance can lead to significant risks and issues, and this is a situation you don’t want to find yourself in.

At Thompson’s Comfort Connection, we’re proud to offer the best heating and air conditioning maintenance services available around Sandy, Draper, Midvale, Cottonwood Heights, Riverton, and nearby areas, ensuring your HVAC system stays at optimal functionality throughout the years. Here are some of the basics on what’s covered during seasonal AC maintenance, plus the significant risks of skipping AC maintenance and why you should avoid them wherever possible.

What’s Covered During AC Maintenance?

During seasonal AC maintenance, a professional HVAC technician will perform a series of tasks to ensure your air conditioning system is running efficiently and effectively. These tasks may include:

• Changing or cleaning the air filter: The air filter in your AC system helps trap dust, pollen, and other pollutants from circulating through your home’s air. Over time, the filter can become clogged and dirty, which can impede airflow and decrease efficiency. As part of regular maintenance, the technician will check the filter and either replace it or clean it if it’s still in good condition.
• Inspecting electrical connections: Faulty electrical connections can cause issues with your AC system’s performance or even pose a safety hazard. During maintenance, the technician will inspect and tighten any loose connections to ensure everything is functioning properly.
• Lubricating moving parts: The various components of your AC system, such as the fan motor and blower, rely on lubrication to run smoothly. During maintenance, the technician will lubricate these parts to prevent wear and tear and maintain efficiency.
• Checking refrigerant levels: Refrigerant is a crucial component in your AC system that helps absorb heat from indoor air. If your system has low refrigerant levels, it can indicate a leak or another issue that needs to be addressed. During maintenance, the technician will check refrigerant levels and recharge if necessary.

This is far from an exhaustive list, and there are many other important tasks that may be included in an AC maintenance check. The specific tasks and recommended frequency of maintenance may vary depending on the type of AC system you have, so it’s always best to consult with a professional technician for personalized recommendations.

Major Risks of Skipping AC Maintenance

Skipping AC maintenance comes with several significant risks:

Higher Bills

One of the most immediate and noticeable risks of skipping AC maintenance is an increase in your energy bills. When your system is not properly maintained, it has to work harder and use more energy to cool your home. This results in higher electricity bills that can add up over time.

Reduced Lifespan

Regular maintenance helps keep your AC system running smoothly and efficiently, reducing wear and tear on its components. By neglecting maintenance, you’re putting unnecessary strain on these parts, which can lead to breakdowns and early system failure.

Decreased Comfort

When your AC system is not functioning at its best due to a lack of maintenance, it may struggle to effectively cool your home. This can result in uneven temperatures throughout the house and an overall decrease in comfort.

Health Risks

Regular maintenance not only keeps your AC system running smoothly, but it also helps improve indoor air quality. Without proper cleaning and upkeep, allergens and pollutants can build up in the system and circulate throughout your home, potentially causing health issues for you and your family.

Environmental Impact

In addition to the impact on your health and wallet, neglecting AC maintenance also has negative effects on the environment. An inefficient system uses more energy, leading to increased carbon emissions and contributing to climate change. By maintaining your AC system, you can reduce your environmental impact and do your part in preserving the planet for future generations.

Risks of Voiding Warranty

In addition to the practical and environmental consequences of neglecting AC maintenance, there is also the risk of voiding your warranty. Most AC systems come with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers certain repairs and replacements for a set period of time.

However, this warranty usually comes with specific requirements, such as regular maintenance checks by a certified technician. If you fail to meet these requirements, you may end up voiding your warranty and having to pay out-of-pocket for any necessary repairs or replacements.

Value of a Seasonal Maintenance Plan

To avoid any risk of missing AC maintenance each year, it may be beneficial to invest in a seasonal maintenance plan offered by your AC service provider. These plans typically include annual maintenance checks, priority scheduling for repairs, and discounts on parts and labor.

Regular maintenance not only helps keep your warranty valid, but it also extends the lifespan of your AC unit. By catching any potential issues early on, you can save yourself from costly repairs or even having to replace your entire system before its time. These plans also typically include furnace maintenance in the fall, covering both your major bases.

At Thompson’s Comfort Connection, we’re proud to offer the best seasonal AC maintenance services available around Sandy, Draper, Riverton, Cottonwood Heights, Midvale, and nearby areas. Contact us today to learn more or schedule service!