It is our belief, that with every year
of use, a modern air conditioner loses 5% of its capacity due to air restriction across
the condenser coil.
In addition to this, the electrical
consumption of the unit is increased by about the same amount, for the same reason.
For this reason alone, regular service
which includes thorough condenser cleaning is cost effictive.
Like the tires on your car, an air
conditioner is filled with gas under pressure.
Leakage is not normal, but a leak
causes significant damage, so checking pressures makes sense.
Most A/C units have motors which will
last longer if lubricated.
Safety controls need to be tested
periodically to insure that they work.
During a thorough maintenance, it is
possible to recognize that a motor or other component is on its "last legs".
With this information an owner is better able to plan for repairs or replacement of the
unit
A side benefit of regular service is
the reduction of surprise "breakdowns" when the equipment is needed most.
We believe that service every 2 years
on most newer systems (up to 10 years old) is reasonable as long as the owner keeps the
air filters clean.
Annual service makes sense on older
systems.
If the filter is not being maintained
by the owner, then 6 month service in a minimum.
Six month service is also recommended
if the unit has a belt drive blower.
Click here for June 19, 1999 John
Dulley Fresno Bee Article on Air Conditioning Systems.
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