It is recommended to replace air conditioning filters in a home every 1-3 months, depending on usage and the specific type of filter being used. If you have pets or live in a particularly dusty area, you may need to replace your filters more frequently. It’s also a good idea to check your filters monthly and replace them as needed.

It is recommended that homeowners have maintenance done on their air conditioners at least once a year, ideally before the start of the cooling season. This will ensure that the system is running efficiently and effectively, and can help prevent potential breakdowns.

During a maintenance visit, a technician will typically inspect and clean the system, including the air filters, coils, and drain lines. They will also check for any potential issues, such as leaks or worn parts, and make any necessary repairs.

If you have an older air conditioning unit, or if you use your air conditioner frequently, it may be beneficial to schedule maintenance visits twice a year, once before the start of the cooling season, and once before the start of the heating season.

It is worth noting that regular maintenance can also help prolong the life of your air conditioner, reduce energy consumption and lower the chance of breakdowns, which could save you money in the long run.

Yes, there are a few things that a homeowner can check prior to calling for air conditioning service:

1. Check the thermostat: Make sure that the thermostat is set to the correct temperature and that the setting is on “cool.” Also, ensure that the thermostat is set to the correct mode, such as “auto” instead of “on.”

2. Check the air filters: Make sure that the air filters are clean and not clogged. If the filters are dirty, replace them.

3. Check the power: Ensure that the air conditioning unit is receiving power by checking the circuit breaker and ensuring that the unit is properly plugged in.

4. Check for obvious issues: Check for any visible leaks or debris around the air conditioning unit and make sure that the condenser coils are clean.

5. Check for proper airflow: If the unit is running but not blowing cool air, check the ducts and registers to make sure that there is proper airflow.

6. If none of these checks resolves the issue, it is best to call an air conditioning service professional. They have the knowledge, skills, and tools to troubleshoot and repair the problem.

There are a few ways to determine if your air conditioning (A/C) unit is the right size for your home:

1. Manual J calculation: This is a calculation method used to determine the correct size of A/C unit for a specific home. It takes into account the home’s square footage, insulation, and number of windows, among other factors. A qualified HVAC technician can perform a Manual J calculation to determine the proper size for your home.

2. Check the unit’s BTU rating: Every A/C unit has a BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating, which indicates how much cooling it can provide. A unit that is too small for your home will have to work harder to cool the space, which can lead to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.

3. Check the unit’s runtime: A properly sized A/C unit should be able to cool your home in a relatively short amount of time. If the unit is running for long periods without achieving the desired temperature, it may be too small.

4. Check the Temperature: You should be able to achieve the temperature set on the thermostat relatively quickly. If it takes a long time to reach the desired temperature, or if the temperature fluctuates significantly, your unit may be too small.

5. Inspect the unit: A qualified technician can inspect the unit and give you a more accurate assessment of whether it is the right size for your home.

6. Keep in mind that an A/C unit that is too large for your home can be just as problematic as one that is too small. It will cool your space too quickly and will turn off before it can remove all the humidity in the air, which can leave your home feeling clammy and damp.

To ensure peak performance and to maintain a valid warranty for your air conditioning (A/C) unit, it is important to perform regular maintenance. Some of the key maintenance tasks that should be performed include:

1. Cleaning or replacing air filters: This should be done at least once a month, or more often if you have pets or live in a particularly dusty area. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and decrease the efficiency of the unit.

2. Cleaning the coils and fins: The coils and fins on the outside condenser unit should be cleaned at least once a year, or more often if they become dirty. A buildup of dirt and debris can impede heat transfer and reduce the efficiency of the unit.

3. Checking and cleaning the drain line: The drain line should be checked regularly to make sure it is not clogged, which can cause water damage.

4. Lubricating the motor and other moving parts: The motor and other moving parts should be lubricated at least once a year to reduce friction and wear.

5. Inspecting the refrigerant: A qualified technician should check the refrigerant level at least once a year, and make any necessary adjustments.

6. Inspection and tightening of electrical connections.

7. Inspection and testing of safety controls.

It is recommended to have a professional HVAC technician perform the maintenance, as they will have the knowledge and tools to properly care for the unit. Most manufacturers recommend having a professional service at least once a year, and some warranties require proof of regular professional maintenance to remain valid.