During the hot Texas summers, you definitely don’t want to suffer with an underperforming air conditioner, let alone an AC that’s not performing at all. That’s why we recommend conditioning your air conditioner or replacing it before you have a problem on your hands.

If your AC isn’t very old, you’d still benefit from preventative services. That’s because the typical AC unit can lose about 5 percent of its efficiency every year otherwise. Al’s servicing includes:

• Cleaning the condensing unit coils.
• Checking the amp draw of the compressor.
• Oiling the fan motors.
• Checking that belts are well adjusted.
• Checking the system operating pressures and temperatures against the   manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Checking the coolant level — you know, the Freon. If your AC is only 10 percent low on coolant, it can cost about 20 percent more to operate.

If your AC is on its last leg, the natural inclination is to run the wheels off of it. There are a couple of reasons you should avoid this. For one, you can cause damage to another part of your central air conditioning and heating system if the blower and coils continue their job even after the AC has called it quits. Second, if it’s a money thing, even the cheapest new AC system is going to be a heck of a lot more efficient than one that’s 15 years or older.

Now before you start worrying about SEERs, BTUs, Watt Hours and Joules — call Al’s. Our certified AC techs can translate all that mumbo jumbo into plain English. 

Al’s Tip: Remember to “winterize” your AC unit in the fall. If you have an outside unit, it’s as simple as flushing water through the grates of the unit to help clear debris that slows the air intake. Then place a cover over your unit when you’re done. Both will extend the life of your AC.