GMC AC Services

Maintenance is essential

2012-01-09T19:04:00.000-08:00

Preventative maintenance is essential to your air conditioning unit. Regular maintenance helps to:

extend the life of your unit
ensure your unit works properly at all times
reduce the number of repair calls and emergencies
reduce your overall cost for repair
save you time and money

Maintenance is necessary for both individuals and corporations. A recent article about a city library highlights the need for regular maintenance before you notice a major problem. In this particular case, the unit is so old that carpeting is ruined, the library has fallen out of favor with the residents, and rennovations have become necessary. This could have been avoided.

Read the story here. Source: News OK

Licensed and Insured

2012-01-06T08:55:00.000-08:00

Why should I use a licensed and insured contractor?

There are always those people looking for the opportunity to take advantage of the situation. Unfortunately there are those who prey on the misfortune of others in unscrupulous and often illegal ways. Do not feel rushed into making agreements with contractors. It is in the best interest of both homeowners and legitimate, licensed contractors to protect homeowners from scams by unlicensed contractors.

There are many reasons to use a licensed contractor, even if you think you can save a few dollars by accepting an unlicensed contractor’s bid. It is cheap insurance using a licensed contractor. If the homeowner contracts with an unlicensed person or company, then the homeowner can be held liable for on-the-job injuries sustained by that unlicensed person’s or company’s employees. Sometimes even the homeowner’s insurance will not cover this, all because the contractor is unlicensed. This exposes you, the homeowner to liability you never dreamed of, all because the contractor lied to you about being licensed. Using a licensed contractor offers protection to the homeowner in the following ways: The contractor knows his trade and has been tested and is bonded for this.

GMC is fully licensed and insured for all your AC / HVAC needs.

Source: YCCA

About GMC

2011-12-29T08:55:00.000-08:00

GMC Air Conditioning Services was created to provide Residential, Commercial, and Industrial customers with a "one stop shop" for all of their indoor comfort, indoor air quality, HVAC service and maintenance needs.

Our founder, John B Flathe, has spent his entire career in the HVAC field. Upon graduating from Vanderbilt University with a Mechanical Engineering degree, John secured Engineering positions, first with Lennox Industries and then York.

Being a true entrepreneur, John decided to branch out on his own and formed Georgia Metal Corporation. For over 30 years Georgia Metal Corporation has installed HVAC systems in some of the most prestigious Retail Centers, Office Complexes, Condominiums, and Residences in South Florida and Georgia. Our extensive list of clients include Publix Supermarkets, Kohl's Department Stores, Staples Office Supplies, Wallgreens, Best Buy and Whole Foods Market, just to name a few.

While much was accomplished over the years, John still had one goal; to build a HVAC Service and Maintenance Company that would delight customers in the same fashion that Georgia Metal Corporation has for over 30 years. To achieve this goal GMC Air Conditioning Services was created.

The 1st step was to find a leader for the new entity. John hired Skip Farinhas, an industry veteran, as General Manager. Skip is a University of Miami graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management. Skip also has spent his entire career in the HVAC Industry, beginning his career in his family's HVAC contracting business, then co-owning and operating a wholesale HVAC distribution company. Skip also spent several years with York as the Sales Manager for Florida. As General Manager of GMC Air Conditioning Services, Skip has built an organization that is focused on exceeding your expectations each and every time!

You can trust GMC Air Conditioning Services to provide solutions to the most difficult cooling problems.
We pride ourselves on honesty, integrity, and dependability.

Our list of services include...

Air Conditioning Replacements.
Duct Repair.
Indoor Air Quality Solutions.
24 Hour Emergency Service.
Fast Reliable repairs.
Preventative Maintenance Agreements.
Free Estimates.
Free 2nd opinion of your cooling problems.

Let us worry about your air conditioning, so you don't have to!

Toys for Tots

2011-12-20T17:59:00.000-08:00

We are extremely pleased to announce that our Facebook promotion was a great success! For every new like we got from Thanksgiving until December 16th, we donated a new toy to Toys for Tots. We gained over 50 new fans and gave away over 50 toys to this wonderful organization.

Thank you for your continued support of GMC AC Services, of Toys for Tots, and our community!

Your Air Duct System

2011-12-16T13:43:00.000-08:00

From our website, we want you to understand how the air ducts in your home affect your comfort, health, utility costs, and the environment.

Since the energy crisis of the 1970’s , scientists, researchers, industry, and government agencies have been investigating ways to save energy, and make products “green”. Great strides have been made in making appliances such as Air Conditioning units more energy efficient, but Forced Air Distribution Systems “Air Duct Systems” have been mostly overlooked up until recently.

Nationwide Air Duct System testing has been conducted over the last decade, and here is what you should know:

Air Duct Leaks waste 15% of ALL power generated in Florida.
Air Duct Leaks increase cooling costs by an average of 23%.
Air Duct Leaks increase heating costs by an average of 37%.
The average air duct leak in Florida is 348 CFM50.
The average reduction in Residential cooling costs, by properly sealing air ducts is 17%.

Because of these compelling facts, we believe all of our customers should have their Air Duct system tested and properly sealed. Call today in order to schedule an appointment. You will save money & be more comfortable!

Preventative Maintenance Agreements

2011-12-09T05:46:00.001-08:00

You have heard of your neighbors and coworkers having service maintenance plans, but wondered what the benefit would be to you. Preventative maintenance plans are like insurance. You take out a policy that says that your appliances may, and likely will, break down at some point. When they do, you don't want to be blindsided by a bill. Instead of a last-minute bill, plan throughout the year to maintain your items and keep them in great condition for their lifetimes.

Our preventative maintenance agreement includes:

1. Fewer expensive repairs and inconvenient breakdowns.
Professional maintenance results in fewer and less costly repairs.
2. Quick response to your call for service.
As a Peak Performance customer, you are given priority status over other callers.
3. Discounted repairs.
You will receive a discount of 15% on BOTH parts and labor, should your system require any repairs.
4. Never be charged overtime rates again!
As one of our preferred customers, you will not be charged overtime, should a repair be necessary after normal working hours.
5. 24 Hour service available 7 days a week.
Your comfort is our top priority, and we will be there when you need us.
6. Extended Equipment Life.
It is a proven fact that regularly scheduled professional maintenance will enhance the lifetime of your HVAC equipment.
7. Lower utility costs.
Our Peak Performance Tune-Up’s keeps your equipment running efficiently, which will reduce operating costs, and save you money each & every month.
8. Improved Dehumidification.
Equipment with dirty coils or filters can lose as much as 40% of their capacity, which can lead to a lack of proper dehumidification
9. Improved Health.
A clean system is a healthy system. Professional maintenance will keep your system clean.
10 Improved Safety.
As a part of our Peak Performance Tune-Up, we check all factory safety controls and switches, as well as check for frayed and loose wires, which greatly reduces the chance of an electrical short or fire.

Customer Service

2011-11-30T07:36:00.001-08:00

Does the thought of hiring a contractor make you happy? It should!

Are you afraid of being overcharged or having shoddy work? Fear not!

GMC AC Services offers a 100% Customer Satisfaction Pledge. Our goal is that you are 100% satisfied with the products and services we offer you. To this end, we make the following pledge:

If you are not completely satisfied with a product or service you have purchased from us, simply let us know and we will do what is necessary for you to be completely satisfied. Satisfied customers are our most important product!

Fresh Air with Fresh-Aire UV Purity

2011-11-22T06:33:00.000-08:00

Studies have shown viruses can spread through the air as well as by physical contact so a preventive strategy must include an effective method of air disinfection. Hand washing alone will not do the job!

Fortunately an ideal solution already exists. For over a century Germicidal Ultraviolet Irradiation or UVGI has been recognized as a highly effective tool against airborne and surface microbial infection. UV light systems are routinely used for disinfection in hospitals,the food industry, and in water purification. In recent years there has been a tremendous growth in the number of UV lights installed in HVAC systems large and small as a means to reduce maintenance by suppressing mold growth and to provide healthier indoor air quality for occupants.

These lights are so effective because microbes have no defense against C-band ultraviolet light (UV-C) which is Germicidal UV Light: A Defense Against Airborne Infectious Diseases not present in daylight (it’s filtered out by the atmosphere). UV-C light sterilizes germs by penetrating their cell walls and scrambling the DNA inside leaving them incapable of reproduction. In the past, UV light has been shown to be effective against influenza strains (including ‘bird’ flu) as well as SARS, legionella, TB, pneumonia, German measles, and many other airborne infectious diseases.

Source: GMC AC Services

The Importance of Clean Coils

2011-11-19T14:52:00.000-08:00

When a coil becomes fouled with dirt and grime, it cannot provide adequate or designed heat transfer causing higher discharge pressures. The higher discharge pressure requires more electricity, thereby increasing the costs for operating the equipment. The energy consumption of equipment operating with dirty coils can be as much as 37% more than that used by equipment with clean coils.

For example, a typical 5-ton air conditioning system operating for an average cooling season of 2,400 hours, with clean coils, will cost approximately $2,020 to operate. However, when the coils become dirty, the nine-month cost could escalate to $2,768 a 37% increase or a $778 savings by keeping the coils clean.

DIRTY COILS REDUCE COOLING:

DIRTY COILS SHORTEN EQUIPMENT LIFE:

Higher operating pressures and temperatures caused by dirty coils can reduce the equipment's life expectancy. The elevated system pressure and temperature can lead to the breakdown of the compressor's lubricant. In addition acid formation can occur, leading to an acid burnout. Lubricant breakdown and acid formation will seriously compromise the compressor and ultimately lead to equipment failure. Compressor failure means NO COOLING. No cooling means no comfort. And, a compressor replacement means a costly repair.

DIRTY INDOOR COILS AFFECT AIR QUALITY:

The evaporator, or inside coil, presents major concerns that include, and go beyond, the issues already discussed. A fouled and dirty evaporator coil creates a breeding ground for bacteria and mold that can impact the indoor air quality. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Protecting the evaporator coil and surrounding areas is critical. Specific cleaners and products will be required for these applications.

Source: Our Learning Center

Money Saving Tips

2011-10-30T12:44:00.000-07:00

Saving money on your energy bill doesn't have to be hard! Follow some of these simple tips and watch the savings add up!

Use the AUTO setting
Generally, it is best to set your indoor fan to AUTO. This costs less and provides better humidity control in the summer. However, if you desire to operate your system with constant air circulation, ask for advice from your Ruud Reliable Top Contractor.

Control direct sunlight
Let the sun in during winter. Keep the sun out during summer. In summer, direct sunlight increases the load on your cooling system. Use of window shades and awnings will reduce the amount of direct sunlight and lower the cooling load. In winter, direct sunlight reduces the load on your heating system. Open window shades and awnings to increase direct sunlight and lower the heating load.

Keep the condenser coil clean
The condenser coil (the unit outside your house) should be kept clean to ensure efficient operation. If the condenser coil becomes restricted by dirt, lint, paper, grass clippings, leaves, or other debris,system efficiency will deteriorate. Use a garden hose to keep the condenser coil clean.

Insulate air ducts
Be sure all air ducts are well-insulated. Ducts should also be sealed with a vapor barrier.

Keep an air tight house
Ensure maximum retention of heated or cooled air by adding insulation to outside walls and to the attic. Seal cracks and use storm doors and/or insulated doors to prevent air leaks.

Properly vent clothes dryers
Be sure your clothes dryer is vented to the outside. Also ensure that your clothes dryer is vented away from your outdoor unit.

Keep heat away from the thermostat
Make sure no heat-generating appliances are near your thermostat. These include lamps, TVs, stereo and computer equipment.

Remember, when your AC is in need of repair or even just an upgrade, call us at GMC AC Services!

We Understand...

2011-10-23T12:37:00.000-07:00

We understand that no one is comfortable hiring a company by the hour. After all, we are consumers too! That is why, when you do business with GMC Air Conditioning Services, you will be quoted a flat price for your repair, and that is all you will pay, regardless of how long the job takes. We charge a small diagnostic fee in order to determine the problem with your A/C system and then we let you know exactly what the cost to repair will be. It is that simple, no hidden charges!

Our goal is that you are 100% satisfied with the products and services we offer you. To this end we make the following pledge. If you are not completely satisfied with a product or service you have purchased from us, simply let us know and we will do what's necessary for you to be completely satisfied. Satisfied customers are our most important product!

What is a thermostat?

2011-10-16T18:39:00.000-07:00

A thermostat is the control device used to set or change the temperature of a room or building. Thermostats help us to keep the temperature in our homes at a reasonable level. When a desired temperature is set, the thermostat detects the current temperature in the house and turns the air conditioner on to heat or cool the house to the temperature that was set. Once that temperature has been reached, the thermostat turns the air conditioner off.

Having a thermostat in your home can save you money by regulating the temperature accordingly. Investing in an automatic thermostat can save you even more by allowing you to set an automated heating or cooling regimen. Basically you set the desired temperatures for morning, noon and night and the thermostat does the rest!

To have a new or updated thermostat installed in your home, call GMC AC Services!

Air Filter vs. Air Purifier

2011-10-09T09:03:00.000-07:00

Air Filter -

Air filters are available in many sizes - varying in length and width according to the system in which they are being inserted. The thickness of an air filter will determine how well it works.

Air filters are typically made with straight fiber media or pleated media. Pleated media typically performs better than straight media because the pleated filters provide more surface area in the same amount of space as a straight filter. Because pleated filters offer less resistance, they also allow an A/C system to perform more efficiently overall.

Air filters are simply parts that are used in an HVAC system to maintain the quality of the air within the home.

Air Purifiers -

Air Purifiers work to remove particles and gases from the air that are often too small for a regular A/C filter to handle. These particles are typically so small that they cannot be seen but can often be detected by smell. Some of the most common gases and particles that air purifiers are used to clean up are:

-Carbon
-Potassium Permanganate
-Zeolite

Most air purifiers are designed with multistage replaceable elements in order to handle the filtration and absorption needs necessary.

For more information, visit our website!

Source: HMEA.com

Nativity Catholic Church Project

2011-10-02T13:07:00.000-07:00

GMC AC Services replaced the AC unit and pipes at Nativity Catholic Church. You can see a drastic difference from the before and after pictures!

Before

After

US Customs and Immigration Project

2011-09-25T13:00:00.000-07:00

We completed 5 locations throughout South Florida. All were required to be LEEDS Compliant. GMC Air Conditioning Services has also been selected to be the Preventative Maintenance Contractor of all 5 facilities by C.B. Richard Ellis, the Property Manager.

For more information on our projects, visit our website!

Winter Heating Tips

2011-09-18T10:59:00.001-07:00

Although South Florida rarely has a very cold winter, it is still important to know how to maximize your A/C during the cooler months (and why not know about it before the time comes)! To save money and keep your home warm, follow these easy tips!

Do not let your heat escape! Make sure all your doors and windows are shut tightly.
Check for leaks, and replace old weather stripping or caulk.
Use your window shades and drapes to maximize heating benefits. Keep shades closed at night to conserve heat. During the day, open shades to let the sunlight in.
Add humidity. Humid air feels warmer than dry air. Increasing the humidity of your home also helps you resist winter colds and moisturizes dry skin. Using a humidifier can help with this.
Keep your furnace air filter clean. A dirty or clogged filter can make your furnace work harder, which costs you more.
Much of the heat escaping homes is lost through the attic. Be sure to close off any attic vents or fans during the winter and check on how well the attic is insulated.

For more information, contact us at GMC AC Services!

Source: CheckMyAC

UV Light Technology

2011-09-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

At GMC AC Services, we pride ourselves in being on top of the latest technology for keeping you cool and keeping your air healthy. That's why we've turned to UV Light Technology from Fresh-Aire.

The Fresh-Aire UV Purity filtration system offers the ultimate enhancement to indoor air quality. The system features not one but three unique technologies that actively reduce airborne microbial contaminants.

This UV Light Filtration System:

• Provides a healthier living environment for your family

• Kills mold, bacteria, and viruses where they lurk

• Reduces system maintenance

• Reduces household odors

Check out this great video for more information!

Client Testimonials!

2011-09-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

We love client testimonials. Here are just a few we've received for a job well done!

Skip, your crew is doing a dynamite job. A clean-hard working methodical outfit. Thanks for the great deal. You guys ROCK!

Lawrence Legg, CPA

Hollywood, Florida

Replace the duct system located in the 2nd story of his home and install a Whole Home air sanitizing system.

Skip, your installation crew was great! They worked efficiently, and were very neat. We really appreciated your company getting our new unit installed, and running in 1 day!

Rob & Michelle Higdon

Hollywood, Florida

Replace existing 4 ton package unit with new unit

GMC AC Services thanks you for your kind words!

Whole Foods A/C Installation

2011-08-28T10:58:00.001-07:00

Check out these great shots from an A/C installation at the Whole Foods Market in Wellington, Fl!

For more picture of our projects, visit our website!

The Do's and Don'ts of Summer Cooling

2011-08-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

Those of us in South Florida are no strangers to the summer heat. To keep your home cool and energy efficient, follow some of these helpful tips!

1. Make sure your home is properly insulated. This helps to keep the hot air out and the cool air in. The better insulated your home is, the less cool air it will take to cool it.

2. If your central A/C is over 12 years old, you may want to consider replacing it with a newer, energy efficient model. This could help you cut your energy costs by about a third!

3. Call GMC AC Services at least once each year to have your A/C serviced!

4. Ensure your doors and windows are properly caulked. A 1/8th inch gap in your doorway is essentially the same as a 6 in square hole in the center of your front door, you'll lose a lot of cold air!

5. Get your windows Energy Star qualified!

6. Purchase energy saving light bulbs for your lights. Using these bulbs can cut a great deal off of your energy bill.

7. Install a programmable thermostat. It only takes a few minutes to program but the benefits will be endless. These thermostats can be programmed to turn up the A/C when you're not home and cool the house down when you are!

8. Install ceiling fans in your home. They consume less energy than your A/C and can save you money while keeping you cooler.

Source: Edison Electric Institute

YMCA Hollywood A/C Replacement

2011-08-14T09:30:00.000-07:00

GMC AC Services recently replaced the A/C System for the Hollywood YMCA!

GG's Bar and Grill - AC Replacement Part 2

2011-08-07T16:30:00.003-07:00

Stay tuned to GMC AC Services for more!

12 Tips to Beat the Heat!

2011-08-01T18:58:00.000-07:00

Call the pros: All central air conditioning units should be inspected, cleaned and tuned by a professional.
Change your air filter regularly: This is especially important during the summer when dust and allergens circulate. If the filter gets clogged, your system will have to work overtime to supply the same amount of cool air.
Made in the shade: Air conditioners placed in an area with proper shading can be more efficient. Air in a shaded space is cooler than the surrounding air, meaning the A/C will have an easier time cooling the air.
Don’t take the heat: Your thermostat will pick up on the heat of objects around it, such as laps, televisions and other appliances. This can cause your A/C to think the house is hot, and it will run longer than necessary.
Dial for dollars: Remember that each degree you dial below 78 increases your energy consumption by about 8 percent. If your monthly electric bill is about $100, you’ll save $8 a month with EACH degree you can stand above 78.
Set and go: If it’s hard to remember to tweak your thermostat before you leave for work, consider investing in a programmable thermostat. Set the A/C to change temperatures at specific times during the day so you don't have to worry about it!
Time to replace? You may find your old air conditioner is no longer efficient. Consider replacing your unit with an energy-efficient model. They’re usually more expensive but thanks to federal tax credits and competitive prices, the prices are falling, and because they use less energy, you save in the long-run, too. When replacing your A/C, look for a properly sized unit. If you install a unit that is too large, it will cycle on and off – reducing the efficiency of the system.
Don’t cool the whole neighborhood: Seal air leaks with caulking and weather-stripping. Add insulation around air conditioning ducts.
Feel the breeze: If your home has ceiling fans, switch your ceiling fan to run counterclockwise in the summer. That will push the cool air down. You can run a ceiling fan half the day for about $1.50 a month, compared to $25 for your A/C.
Watch the pavement: Avoid landscaping with lots of rock, cement, or asphalt on the south or west sides of your home. If it’s not shaded it will increase the temperature around the house and radiate heat.
Free from debris: Keep plants, shrubs, and other landscaping about two to four feet away from your outdoor unit to ensure adequate airflow.
Install window film: A great home improvement idea is to install home window film or tint to the insides of your windows. Not only can it help keep your house cooler in the summer, but also warmer in the winter.

And remember, for all of your A/C needs, call us at GMC!

GG's Bar and Grill - AC Replacement Part 1

2011-07-26T17:51:00.000-07:00

GMC AC Services recently removed an old AC unit from GG's Bar and Grill in Hollywood and replaced it with a brand new unit. Take a peek at some of the removal pictures!

Stay tuned for more from GMC AC Services!

Internet Specials!

2011-07-17T18:49:00.000-07:00

We know that saving money in any way, shape or form is on everyone's mind lately. If you need AC services, be sure to mention one of our Internet Specials and SAVE!

Visit our website for more information on these great deals!

Dirty Coils

2011-07-11T18:39:00.000-07:00

When a coil becomes fouled with dirt and grime, it cannot provide adequate or designed heat transfer causing higher discharge pressures. The higher discharge pressure requires more electricity thereby, increasing the costs for operating the equipment. The energy consumption of equipment operating with dirty coils can be as much as 37% more than that used by equipment with clean coils.

DIRTY COILS REDUCE COOLING:

As the dirt and grime collect on the coils it restricts heat transfer causing the compressor to work harder. This adds more heat to the system and raises the head pressure as much as 75%. Higher head pressure can result in a loss of up to 30% of the systems cooling capacity. This loss will be most noticeable on the HOTTEST DAYS when cooling is needed the most!

DIRTY COILS SHORTEN EQUIPMENT LIFE:

Higher operating pressures and temperatures caused by dirty coils can reduce the equipment's life expectancy. The elevated system pressure and temperature can lead to the breakdown of the compressor's lubricant. In addition acid formation can occur, leading to an acid burnout. Lubricant breakdown and acid formation will seriously compromise the compressor and ultimately lead to equipment failure. Compressor failure means NO COOLING. No cooling means no comfort. And, a compressor replacement means a costly repair.

DIRTY INDOOR COILS AFFECT AIR QUALITY:

The evaporator, or inside coil, presents major concerns that include, and go beyond, the issues already discussed. A fouled and dirty evaporator coil creates a breeding ground for bacteria and mold that can impact the indoor air quality. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Protecting the evaporator coil and surrounding areas is critical. Specific cleaners and products will be required for these applications.

For more information, contact us at GMC AC Services!

Customer Testimonials

2011-07-07T13:33:00.000-07:00

We love to get feedback from our customers. Check out some of these great testimonials we've received!

"Skip, your crew is doing a dynamite job. A clean-hard working methodical outfit. Thanks for the great deal. You guys ROCK!"

Lawrence Legg, CPA

Hollywood, Florida

Replace the duct system located in the 2nd story of his home and install a Whole Home air sanitizing system.

"Skip, your installation crew was great! They worked efficiently, and were very neat. We really appreciated your company getting our new unit installed, and running in 1 day!"

Rob & Michelle Higdon

Hollywood, Florida

Replace existing 4 ton package unit with new unit

""Excellent Job" the installation was done very professionally! I really appreciated your personal follow-up after the job was completed. I have already referred your company to 2 of my neighbors."

Dr. Bret Emery

Weston, Florida

Re-install customers existing A/C equipment (which was removed for mold abatement) and clean/sanitize entire duct system

"Skip, thanks for saving us this summer! Your next day replacement of our entire system, with a high efficiency system from RUUD was great! My wife and I love how quiet the variable speed air handler is. We were also pleasantly surprised how affordable the system replacement was, considering the FP&L rebate AND the $1,000 rebate from RUUD."

William Wood (Moss Construction)

Loxahatchee, Florida

Replace existing system with 4 ton high efficiency system

"God bless you, for helping us upgrade our air conditioning system in the Church. You have made our Church much more comfortable!"

Father Patrick Murnane, Pastor Nativity Catholic Church

Hollywood, Florida

Replace 60 ton Air Cooled Chiller & 15 ton Air Handler

Call us at GMC Air Conditioning Services and let us know how we can be of assistance!

Service Your Air Conditioner to Save Money and Stay Comfortable!

2011-06-21T07:09:00.000-07:00

We all know that we can pay our auto mechanics a little now for routine service, or pay them a lot later for a major repair. The same idea holds true for your air conditioner. If you don't service your air conditioner regularly, you'll find yourself uncomfortable and with a large expense.

An air conditioner is a very tough piece of equipment. It is engineered to withstand all sorts of abuse and keep on running. This is great in most respects, but it can lead to complacency about maintenance. Like a car, air conditioners need regular tune-ups to run properly.

Without regular maintenance an air conditioner looses about 5% of it's original efficiency for each year of operation. This means that the 12 SEER unit that you bought just a few years ago may be functioning like a 9 SEER unit today! The good news is that you can recover most of that lost efficiency through regular maintenance. Studies show that with regular tune-ups a unit will maintain up to 95% of it's original efficiency. This means that the cost of an annual tune-up is recovered very quickly in savings on your monthly electric bill and reduced repair costs. A properly serviced air conditioner will also do a better job of dehumidifying your home.

A service check includes cleaning the condensing unit coils, checking the amp draw of the compressor, oiling the fan motors, checking that belts are well adjusted, and checking the system operating pressures and temperatures against the manufacturers specifications. One of the most important items to check is the coolant level (commonly know as Freon) in the air conditioner. A system that is only 10% low on coolant will cost about 20% more to operate! The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) recommends that coolant levels be checked every year.

There are some things in addition to yearly tune-ups that you can do to help ensure a high level of comfort and proper system operation. First, buy good filters and change them regularly. Next, keep bushes and other materials away from the outside unit of your air conditioner. Another good idea is to avoid closing supply air outlets in your house. In almost all cases, closing supply outlets is harmful to the operation of the overall system.

All equipment, even the most reliable, needs routine maintenance. Complicated equipment like today's air conditioners benefit in many ways from annual service. They recover much of their lost efficiency, they are less likely to suffer a major break down, they have a longer life span, they increase your comfort, and they operate for less money.

source: greenbuilder.com