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HVAC Tips

Is Your AC Running Properly? A Summer Tune-Up Guide

August, 2024

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With over 35 years of service in the Central Valley, our experienced professionals are the cornerstone of our success. They bring unparalleled expertise in HVAC services, ensuring every Central Valley home or business enjoys top-tier heating and cooling services. Our commitment to excellence is evident in every project, making us a trusted name in the Valley for all your HVAC needs.

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Introduction

As the summer heat endures, ensuring that your air conditioner (AC) is running properly becomes crucial for staying comfortable. Regular maintenance can not only prevent costly repairs but also help in optimizing the efficiency of your AC system. Let's talk about how to make sure your AC is still running well as the summer season continues and learn more about our AC Maintenance Services for Residential Homes.

Why Regular AC Maintenance is Important

Maintaining your air conditioning system with regularity is vital; it is a cornerstone practice for ensuring the unit's optimal performance and longevity. The significance of routine maintenance extends far beyond simple operational efficiency. By being organized with consistent care, you can enjoy a substantial decrease in energy consumption (and lower bills!). This proactive approach also greatly diminishes the likelihood of unexpected malfunctions, particularly during times of elevated demand, thereby safeguarding against the inconvenience and cost of emergency repairs. Plus, the last time you want to have to call us for emergency service is during a heat wave!
An often overlooked but equally critical advantage of regular AC maintenance is its impact on the unit's lifespan. Systems that are meticulously cared for have a tendency to outlast their neglected counterparts by a significant margin, offering years of additional service. Especially right now, this is a wise financial investment you and your family can make, and it also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing waste and the need for frequent replacements.
Do you worry about air quality? The quality of your indoor air directly correlates with the cleanliness and efficiency of the AC unit. A well-maintained system ensures the circulation of clean, filtered air, which is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment, free from pollutants and allergens. The importance of routine AC maintenance transcends mere comfort, playing a pivotal role in the health and well-being of all occupants within the home.

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"We have used Nalk Air over the past couple of years and have always been very happy with the service. The tech has always been on time, informative, and professional. We highly recommend Nalk.”​
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Signs Your AC Needs a Tune-Up

Recognizing the need for a professional check-up on your air conditioning system is essential for avoiding extended damage and maintaining peak functionality. Here are the key signs that suggest a professional tune-up might be due:

•Experiencing odd sounds or shakes coming from the unit is a clear warning. These noises and vibrations often mean there are internal complications that require prompt fixing.

•Difficulty in keeping a consistent level of coolness, or the system blowing out warm air instead, is a strong indication of an issue within the cooling processes.

•An uptick in energy expenses, without an increase in how much you're using the system, usually signals a drop in efficiency. This decrease necessitates a thorough inspection and maintenance to restore its performance.

•The AC unit turning on and off more frequently signifies it's under more pressure than it should be, which could lead to more serious concerns if ignored.

•Finding more dust than usual around vents not only compromises your indoor air quality but also suggests the system's filtering capability is diminishing.

Have you noticed any of the above? If so, it is crucial to call us and schedule a professional evaluation to ensure your AC continues to provide comfort as summer winds down. Overlooking these signals might result in escalated issues, potentially requiring expensive repairs or the premature need for a replacement unit. Visit our AC Repairs page for more information.


NALK Cooling & Heating technician performing maintenance on an AC unit'
What to Expect During an AC Tune-Up

Getting your AC tuned up is like giving it a little spa day, where trained experts come by to make sure it's running smooth and cool. First off, we take a good look at your thermostat and all those knobs and dials to make sure everything’s telling the truth about how chilly you want it inside. It’s super important to get this bit right to keep things comfy.
Our mission is crystal clear: ensure your AC unit operates at its prime. This involves:
•Upgrading with first-class filters for peak air purity and flow.
•Ensuring both evaporator and condenser coils are unblocked and clean, offering optional washes with gentle, yet effective, non-acid solutions.
•Tightening and cleaning any drive belts present, alongside greasing up those bearings, for a smoother run if your system has them.
•A thorough check-up of all reachable spots for any leak giveaways, to keep your system sealed and efficient.
•A detailed inspection of the electrical ins and outs, like service disconnects and compressor connections, to catch any potential fail points.
•Evaluating the performance and settings of safety controls, economizers, and verifying system voltages to ensure everything's functioning within the right parameters.
•Analyzing component amp draws and pressure levels to assure your unit is not just running, but running right, balancing supply and demand effortlessly.

DIY Maintenance Tips

For those looking to maintain the efficiency and longevity of their air conditioning system, there are several straightforward maintenance tasks that can be undertaken independently, complementing our work. Firstly, one of the most impactful actions a homeowner can undertake is the regular replacement or cleaning of air filters. This simple task significantly enhances air quality while promoting efficient system operation by ensuring airflow is unobstructed. Are you running your system more than normal? Keep a monthly eye on your air filter and set reminders to change them.
Additionally, attention should be given to the outdoor unit, which should be kept free of debris, leaves, and other obstructions that could impair its functionality. This preventive measure aids in maintaining optimal performance and preventing unnecessary strain on the system.
Another advisable practice involves the inspection and maintenance of vents and ducts within the home. Ensuring these pathways are clear and unblocked facilitates the uniform distribution of cool air, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the cooling system. We know how tempting it is to close up a couple of vents, but that'll do your system more harm than good.
Lastly, the implementation of a programmable thermostat can offer considerable benefits, enabling you to tailor cooling schedules to your daily routines, thereby optimizing energy use and contributing to the overall operational efficiency of your air conditioning system. These manageable, yet essential, tasks serve as a solid foundation for maintaining your air conditioner's performance between professional tune-ups from Nalk. 

NALK Cooling & Heating working on ofice air conditioner
The Importance of Professional Tune-Ups

Entrusting your air conditioning system to the Nalk team of professionals for a detailed tune-up is not just convenience; it is an investment in your system's future performance and durability. Our experts come equipped with specialized tools and advanced diagnostic equipment that enable them to detect and resolve issues that might escape the notice of the untrained eye. Their deep understanding of the intricate workings of AC systems allows them to perform precise adjustments and repairs, optimizing the system’s efficiency and reliability.
Additionally, professional tune-ups adhere strictly to safety standards, ensuring that all procedures are conducted without risking harm to the system or its surroundings. This meticulous attention to safety is particularly crucial given the electrical and chemical components involved in AC maintenance.
Another critical aspect of professional service is the assurance of maintaining the manufacturer's warranty. Many warranties require documented proof of regular professional maintenance, without which coverage could be voided. This underscores the importance of having your AC system serviced by certified technicians from Nalk who can provide the necessary documentation to support warranty claims.
By opting for professional tune-ups, homeowners can have peace of mind, knowing that their air conditioning systems are maintained to the highest standards, ensuring peak performance throughout the demanding summer months.