Why Annual AC Maintenance is Essential for Tennessee Summers

In Knoxville, TN, summers can be brutal, with the hot weather lasting from May through September and average temperatures soaring well above 80º F and  90º F.

Pair that with high humidity, and it’s easy to see why having a fully functioning air conditioner is essential for local families in East Tennessee. 

However, many homeowners overlook the importance of regular AC maintenance, which can lead to inefficiencies, higher energy bills, shorter system lifespan, and unexpected breakdowns.

Scheduling annual AC maintenance ensures your unit operates at its best, providing reliability, efficiency, and longevity for your HVAC system.

In this blog post, the HVAC experts at Pipe Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Cooling explore the benefits of annual AC maintenance in Tennessee, key maintenance tasks, the best time for a tune-up, and why you should choose us for your professional AC check.

Need to schedule AC maintenance or your annual HVAC check? Contact us online and get your home ready for summer.

The Benefits of Annual AC Maintenance

Regular air conditioning maintenance offers several benefits, from improved HVAC efficiency to cost savings. Experts in the home service industry recommend scheduling HVAC system checks at least twice a year, usually in the spring and fall, to ensure your system is working properly.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the key advantages of scheduling an annual or biannual tune-up or system check.

Improved Energy Efficiency

A well-maintained air conditioner runs more efficiently, reducing the strain on its components. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate in the system’s components, such as evaporator coils and air filters, making your AC work harder than necessary to cool your home.

Routine maintenance ensures that all parts function properly, leading to improved airflow and energy efficiency. When your AC doesn’t have to work as hard, it consumes less energy, helping you shrink your carbon footprint while maintaining indoor comfort.

Lower Utility Bills & Cost Savings

Because an efficient air conditioner uses less energy, it results in lower utility bills. Neglecting maintenance can lead to clogged filters, dirty coils, and low refrigerant levels, all of which force the system to use more electricity.

By keeping your air conditioner in top shape, you prevent unnecessary energy waste, which translates into savings on your monthly bills. Regular maintenance also helps prevent major breakdowns, expensive repairs, or premature AC replacement.

Fewer Breakdowns

Unexpected air conditioning breakdowns can be inconvenient and expensive, especially during the peak summer months in Knoxville, TN, when temperatures can easily climb to 90ºF or higher.

Preventative maintenance allows technicians to catch smaller issues before they turn into major, costly repairs, such as worn-out parts, leaks, or electrical issues. A proactive approach minimizes the risk of system failures or more expensive system replacements and ensures your home remains cool and comfortable during the sweltering summer heat.

Extended System Lifespan

Air conditioners are a significant investment, and system replacements are not only expensive but often inconvenient when budgets are tight.

With regular maintenance, you can extend your AC’s lifespan. When all components are kept in optimal working condition, your system experiences less wear and tear, allowing it to function effectively for years to come.

Although AC makes and models can vary, the average air conditioner lasts for 10 to 12 years. If properly cared for, your AC can function correctly even longer, so regular maintenance can maximize your return on investment.

Warranty Compliance

Many air conditioner manufacturers require regular maintenance as a condition for warranty coverage. Neglecting professional routine maintenance can often void your warranty, leaving you responsible for any future repair or replacement costs.

Key AC Maintenance Tasks

Several essential preventative maintenance tasks can help keep your AC running smoothly and correctly during hot weather. Whether you handle some of these yourself or schedule service with certified HVAC experts, regular attention is crucial.

Changing Air Filters

One of the simplest yet most effective maintenance tasks is regularly changing the air filter. A clean filter prevents dust, allergens, and debris from clogging your AC, allowing for better airflow and improved indoor air quality.

Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing the AC to work harder and reducing efficiency. In Knoxville, spring and summer mean contending with many common allergens that can clog your system, including tree pollen, weed pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold.

We recommend changing the filters every one to three months, depending on usage and household conditions.

If you have pets or live with immunocompromised family members, such as infants or older people, you may need to replace your air filter more often — around every 45 days — to help prevent allergy and asthma flare-ups. Regular air filter maintenance is a simple yet effective way to keep your AC running efficiently.

Coil Cleaning

Your air conditioner has two primary coils: the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. Each facilitates heat exchange and can accumulate dirt and debris over time, reducing its efficiency.

A professional cleaning ensures these coils remain free of buildup, allowing your system to cool your home effectively. Clean coils enhance performance and prevent overheating, reducing the risk of system failure.

Checking Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is essential for your air conditioner to cool your home properly, keeping your family comfortable and safe. If refrigerant levels are low due to leaks or other issues, your system won’t be able to cool efficiently.

During an AC tune-up, a technician will check refrigerant levels and refill them if necessary. Proper refrigerant levels ensure your AC delivers consistent and efficient cooling throughout the hot summers.

Professional AC Inspections & System Checks

While some AC maintenance tasks can be done by homeowners, a professional inspection is essential for detecting hidden issues before they become costly problems. Certified HVAC technicians perform comprehensive system checks that include identifying worn-out components, electrical issues, refrigerant leaks, and other potential problems.

Catching these issues early prevents costly repairs and ensures your AC continues running efficiently. Check out our comprehensive maintenance services included in professional AC checks from Pipe Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

The Best Time for an AC Tune-Up & System Check

The ideal time to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Tennessee is in early spring, before the peak summer heat sets in. Here’s why:

• Avoid emergency breakdowns: Scheduling a tune-up before summer helps prevent unexpected system failures during the hottest days of the year, keeping you safe from severe discomfort, heat stroke, and dehydration.
• Shorter service wait times: Professional HVAC companies are often busier during peak summer months, making early spring the best time to secure an appointment without having to deal with longer-than-normal wait times.
• Optimal performance for summer: A properly maintained air conditioner ensures reliable and efficient cooling during summer, providing maximum comfort when you need it most.

By planning ahead and scheduling an air conditioner tune-up in the spring, you can enjoy a worry-free summer with a fully functional cooling system.

Choose Pipe Wrench for an AC Tune-Up in Tennessee

When it comes to keeping your air conditioner in peak condition, trust the experts at Pipe Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. Our skilled and expert technicians provide comprehensive maintenance, ensuring your system runs efficiently and reliably all season.

With decades of local experience, we can identify potential issues before they get worse, helping you save on energy bills and avoid costly repairs or replacements.

At Pipe Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we prioritize customer satisfaction and quality service no matter the HVAC problem. When you choose us for AC maintenance, you can expect:

• Thorough inspections and professional system checks/tune-ups
• Expert advice on properly maintaining your air conditioner
• Reliable and prompt solutions backed by our Same-Day Service Guarantee
• Competitive pricing with no hidden fees

You can contact us each year to schedule your annual AC check, or you can enroll in our Peace of Mind Maintenance Program for a low monthly subscription of $20.25. We’ll send seasonal reminders to schedule your tune-up.

Our Peace of Mind Program is designed to reduce stress and keep your mind at ease about your home’s plumbing and HVAC systems. Our maintenance plan includes a twice-annual HVAC check in the spring and fall, annual water heater/plumbing maintenance, and many other benefits. 

Don’t wait until summer to address AC issues. Schedule your annual AC maintenance with us and enjoy a cooler, more efficient home.