An annual or bi-annual HVAC maintenance appointment generally takes somewhere between 1-2 hours, although this can vary quite a bit depending on several factors. These factors include the type of AC you have, the size of your home, and the amount of time that has passed since your last tune-up.
If there is a minor problem, it can take anywhere between 30 minutes to 45 minutes. If the issue is a major one, it can take several hours.
Depending on the system, an optimal time of 3 minutes is required before switching the system on. If the system is turned on without waiting for at least 3 minutes, the system can start with a pressure load. This pressure load prevents the system from cooling properly, which could affect the system in the long run.
The $5,000 rule is a rule of thumb in the HVAC industry to help homeowners decide whether HVAC repair or HVAC replacement makes more sense in the long run. The $5,000 rule: Multiply the age of your equipment by the estimated repair cost. If the number is more than $5,000, then you should consider replacing your unit.
However, most companies will be able to service your split air conditioner within a few hours. During this time, a technician will come to your home and inspect your AC unit. They will clean the coils and blower, as well as check the Freon levels. They will also test the unit to make sure it is running properly.
What is Included in an Air Conditioner Servicing? Servicing of AC needs to include inspection of the motor, blower, drain line, operating pressures, coils, temperatures, refrigerant levels, supply lines, and connections. Consequently, a superior company should conduct a thorough checkup that comprises all these things.
Many modern AC units come equipped with an auto-cleaning feature designed to remove dust, bacteria, and other contaminants from the system. This process typically involves the unit running a self-cleaning cycle, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the level of cleaning required.
Usually, it is a quick fix, but sometimes the failure can be caused by a much bigger problem. The most expensive part of an AC unit to replace and repair is the air compressor.
It's important to be aware of how long air conditioners last, so you don't get the unwelcome surprise of a broken air conditioner in the peak of the summer heat. In general, air conditioners that are properly maintained can last 15 to 20 years.
This is normal and, thankfully, won't damage a well-maintained AC unit. However, running it 24/7 will drive up your electricity bills due to the constant need to counter the heat outside. High demand during summer often leads to power outages.
The New Regulations
Starting January 1, 2025, all new residential air conditioners and heat pumps must utilize A2L refrigerants. Older refrigerants like R-410, which are likely the refrigerant used by your current system, are being phased out.
In general, wall and window air conditioning units with smaller capacities can typically run for up to eight hours at a time before they need to rest. Larger wall and window units have a longer running time of around 10 to 12 hours, depending on their cooling power.
An annual or bi-annual HVAC maintenance appointment generally takes somewhere between 1-2 hours, although this can vary quite a bit depending on several factors. These factors include the type of AC you have, the size of your home, and the amount of time that has passed since your last tune-up.
The dirt clogs up the system and creates condensation, leading to mold that clogs the draining system. These clogs, when left unchecked, lead to water leaks coming from the interior unit of your AC.
Several components, such as the condensate and refrigerant, also restart when an air conditioning system does. Depending on the system, it is best to wait three minutes before turning it on. The system may start with a pressure load if it is turned on without waiting for at least three minutes.
As long as you are staying comfortable, your home is reaching set thermostat temperature on very hot days and airflow from vents is normal, and your energy bills are about the same as they were last year – there's likely not a problem.
Does homeowners insurance cover air conditioner replacement? If your air conditioner is damaged or destroyed due to a covered peril, such as lightning or a windstorm, your homeowners insurance policy may pay to repair or replace the unit, up to your coverage limit and minus your homeowners insurance deductible.
If you kept your air conditioner in good condition over its lifetime, expect to need a replacement in about 10-15 years. Keep in mind that as your A/C grows older, its mechanical parts can become unavailable or obsolete over time. If you aren't able to replace a broken part, you will need to purchase new unit.
Assuming the same energy cost and usage statistics, your new system will consume around $648 in electricity per year. That's an average savings of about $260 per year, or around 29%. The savings really add up when you expand those numbers out over time as well.
Fixing an air conditioning unit typically takes between 30 minutes to 8 hours. Simple issues, like changing a clogged filter or replacing a fuse, are resolved quickly. More intricate problems, such as refrigerant leaks or compressor failures, require more time.
Get your coils cleaned annually. If you live in an area where your AC unit is exposed to excessive amounts of dirt, dust, debris, or moisture, it is best to regularly clean your coils every three months or so.
The AC coil cleaning cost is around $100 to $400 as of 2024, according to Homeguide (for an evaporator coil), and up to $700 to remove and clean the coil. Cleaning the condenser coil costs $75 to $230. ¹ However, there are many ways paying these costs can save you money.