When the Kansas City heat rolls in, the last thing you want is for your air conditioner to go out. Want to know the best way to avoid surprise breakdowns? Schedule AC maintenance at least once a year — ideally in the spring.
This gets your system back in gear after it hasn’t been used all winter, ensuring it’s ready to run efficiently all summer. Annual tune-ups will help your unit last longer, cost less to run, and stay dependable through the hottest months of the year.
Why Do I Need to Service My AC Annually?
Like any mechanical system, your air conditioner needs regular attention to stay in good shape. Over time, dust and debris can build up, parts wear down, and efficiency suffers.
Giving your AC an annual tune-up is the best way to catch small problems before they turn into big, more expensive issues.
What Makes Spring the Best Time for AC Tune-Ups?
Spring is the sweet spot for air conditioner tune-ups because your system hasn’t been working hard yet. The real heavy lifting will happen in the summer, so it’s best to get your AC ready.
HVAC technicians also book up quickly when the temperature rises, and Kansas City homeowners realize that their ACs need attention. By getting ahead of the rush and getting maintenance done early, you give your technician time to inspect, clean, and adjust everything before the real heat sets in.
Benefits of Routine Air Conditioner Service
There are many benefits to staying on top of your AC service:
- Lower energy bills: A clean and well-tuned AC doesn’t have to work as hard, which reduces your monthly energy use.
- Longer system lifespan: Routine care helps prevent wear and tear that can shorten your air conditioner’s service life.
- Better indoor comfort: Your home will cool more consistently when your AC is running at peak performance.
- Fewer breakdowns: Preventative maintenance helps you avoid emergency repairs during peak cooling season.
- Healthier indoor air quality: Clean filters and coils keep dust and allergens from circulating through your home.
DIY Cooling Maintenance
While it’s important to have a professional service your AC at least once a year, there are a few simple tasks you can do to keep your AC in good shape between visits:
- Change your air filter regularly: A fresh filter improves airflow and reduces strain on the system.
- Clear debris from the outdoor unit: Make sure leaves, grass, and other obstructions aren’t blocking your condenser.
- Check your thermostat settings: Before the heat wave hits, set your thermostat to cooling mode to ensure everything works.
- Inspect visible wiring and insulation: If anything looks cracked or frayed, schedule an AC repair.
Professional AC Tune-Up Tasks
During a professional tune-up, trained HVAC technicians go beyond the basics to get your system running at its best. An air conditioner maintenance visit typically includes:
- Cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils: This improves heat exchange and boosts efficiency.
- Checking refrigerant levels: The technician will make sure your system has the right amount of refrigerant for optimal cooling.
- Inspecting electrical components and connections: Faulty wires and loose terminals are fixed before they can cause damage.
- Testing system controls and thermostat calibration: This ensures that everything communicates correctly and cycles on/off at the right times.
- Lubricating moving parts: Reducing friction helps components last longer and run more quietly.
Keep Your AC on Track with Polestar
At Polestar Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we make it easy to stay on top of AC maintenance. With over 40 years of home service experience and a team of NATE-certified technicians, we know how to keep your system running like new.
Want a simpler way to stay on schedule? Polestar’s Family Membership includes twice-yearly HVAC tune-ups, priority scheduling, and exclusive discounts — so you never have to worry about missing your spring service.
Contact Polestar today to schedule your AC tune-up and stay cool all summer.
