As summer winds down and the cooler months approach, many homeowners assume their air conditioner can be left alone until next year. But skipping seasonal maintenance could leave you with higher energy bills, reduced comfort, or even premature equipment failure. If you haven’t had your system serviced yet, it’s the perfect time for an air conditioner tune up in Washington, DC before winter sets in.
When You Should Schedule Fall AC Maintenance
Not every situation calls for immediate repairs—but that doesn’t mean you should skip professional service altogether. Fall is the ideal time to schedule maintenance if:
- You haven’t had maintenance yet this year. Annual inspections help your AC run more efficiently, prevent small issues from growing, and extend the lifespan of your system. Skipping even one season can cause wear and tear to accelerate.
- Your AC performance is a little underwhelming. Maybe your system is cooling unevenly, running longer than usual, or not quite keeping up on hot days. These mild performance dips might not warrant a repair call, but they’re often signs your system could benefit from a tune-up.
- You have a heat pump. Unlike standard air conditioners, heat pumps work year-round, heating in winter and cooling in summer. This means they should be serviced twice a year to stay in top shape.
Professional vs. DIY Maintenance
There are important differences between what a homeowner can safely handle and what’s best left to the pros. A professional maintenance visit from our expert team typically includes checking refrigerant levels, inspecting electrical components, lubricating moving parts, tightening connections, and cleaning deep inside your system—tasks that require specialized tools and training.
That said, you can absolutely take a few simple steps between visits to keep your AC in better condition:
- Change your air filter every 1–3 months, depending on usage and filter type. A clogged filter reduces airflow, strains your system, and lowers efficiency.
- Blow dust off indoor coils with a can of compressed air. This helps your AC transfer heat more effectively.
- Trim or rake around the outdoor unit to clear away leaves, grass, and other debris that could block airflow.
- Gently wash the outdoor unit down with a hose to remove dirt and pollen buildup. Avoid using a pressure washer, as high-pressure water can damage delicate fins.
Why Fall Is the Perfect Time
Scheduling maintenance in the fall offers several advantages. Technicians are often more available than during peak summer months, you’ll be ahead of the spring rush, and your system will be primed for either its winter rest or, in the case of heat pumps, the heating season ahead. Plus, if any minor issues are spotted, you can address them before they escalate into costly breakdowns.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If your AC hasn’t been serviced this year, isn’t performing quite like it used to, or you rely on a heat pump, now’s the time to take action. Our skilled technicians are ready to ensure your system runs efficiently and reliably for the seasons ahead. We’re here to schedule your maintenance appointment whenever you’re ready—let’s get your AC in top shape before the next weather change.
Contact Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating today to schedule an appointment or ask any questions you have about an air conditioner tune-up in Washington, DC.