Here are the top five common things they see in older systems that are still running well:
1. Give your system a break.
In Texas, AC systems work overtime for a good portion of the year, but according to Colony AC, if the thermostat is set higher than average, you may be able to extend the life of your AC system. For many homeowners, setting the thermostat to a higher temperature in the summer may be non-negotiable. However, for people who run warm-blooded, they can comfortably keep their thermostat at 75-plus degrees. This allows their cooling system to take breaks and rest between run cycles. This lighter workload helps prevent strain and extends the system’s lifespan, especially during the dog days of summer.
2. Don’t underestimate filter changes.
Operations manager Elaine Rosenthal said this is one of the most common maintenance tasks people forget. In fact, 80% of homeowners fail to change their filter on time, which can lead to costly failures.
“People underestimate the importance of filter changes,” Rosenthal said. “It’s such a small, minor task, but most homeowners don’t realize it can take an entire AC or heating system down. It’s one of those things [where] you ‘can’t feel’ when it’s dirty, but your system sure can. In the winter, the most common diagnosis we find is an overfull filter that caused the unit to overheat and shut off. It might be a quick fix, but when filter changes are neglected over time, they can potentially make a system go from lasting 15 years down to maybe seven.”
Colony AC recommends the following filter change timeline:
- One-inch filter: change every month
- Two-inch filter: change every two months
- Four- or five-inch filter: change every five to six months
3. Replace small parts before they fail.
While most parts in a comfort system are made to last, there are some that are considered a “consumable” part, and over time these parts can weaken. The goal is to catch these minor parts during their weak phase to prevent them from causing strain on other larger parts that depend on them to function to their full capacity. These smaller parts are often covered by manufacturer’s warranties and can be inexpensive compared to potentially larger repairs. Taking a proactive approach, rather than waiting for a breakdown, helps the entire system run smoothly and last longer.
4. Keep the landscaping clear around the outdoor unit.
Part of the magic of air conditioning occurs when the outdoor unit breathes in air from its sides and exhales out the top.
“Clean the outdoor unit regularly, and check for overgrown shrubbery. Many times shrubbery is used for hiding an unsightly AC, but it’s not necessarily a good thing,” Rosenthal said.
Restricting the sides or top of the AC with an overgrown shrub, a fence too close or dirt accumulation, such as fallen leaves or grass clippings, can cause the AC unit to struggle to breathe freely.
5. Schedule a seasonal tune-up.
When an AC or heating tune-up is done properly, it’s not just an inspection or a data collection; it should consist of preventive care and cleaning to ensure the system has its best chance at a longer life.
During a maintenance visit, Colony AC technicians wash the outdoor unit, check wear-and-tear parts, confirm that the system is running efficiently and more. During the heating season, they will test for carbon monoxide, make gas adjustments for safer operation and more.
Keeping homes comfortable for generations
Colony Air Conditioning & Heating, still family-owned and operated for 48 years, continues to prioritize honesty, education and genuine customer care over sales quotas. Today, the Everett family–mom, dad, son and daughter–each play a role in daily operations.
“Our industry as a whole is evolving toward more of a corporate mindset with many mom and pop companies selling out to larger private equity companies,” owner Kathy Everett said. “The advantage of being family-owned is that we take our reputation personally, and because of that, we will always choose fairness over profits.”
Colony AC continues to remain focused on what matters most: trusted service, honest advice and long-term comfort for local families.
For more HVAC tips or to learn more about Colony Air, click here.
The above story was produced by Multi-Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
