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How Not to Break Your AC: 5 Simple Tips for Homeowners

Your air conditioner is an essential part of keeping your home comfortable, especially during the summer. But without proper care, it can break down unexpectedly, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Fortunately, with a few simple practices, you can keep your AC running smoothly for years to come. Here are five easy ways to ensure your AC stays in top shape.
One of the easiest ways to prevent damage to your AC is by regularly changing its air filters. Dirty filters block airflow, forcing the system to work harder to cool your home. Over time, this added strain can cause components to wear out prematurely. Aim to replace or clean your air filters every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and filter type.
Pro Tip: If you have pets or live in a dusty environment, check your filters more frequently.
Your AC should run relatively quietly. If you start hearing unusual sounds like grinding, rattling, or squealing, it could be a sign of a mechanical issue. Ignoring these noises might lead to serious damage. If something sounds off, it’s best to have a professional inspect your unit before a minor issue becomes a major (and costly) repair.
Pro Tip: Catching problems early can save you from more expensive repairs down the line.
The outdoor unit of your AC system, known as the condenser, needs room to breathe. Make sure there’s at least two feet of clearance around the unit and that it’s free of debris like leaves, grass, and dirt. Blockages can reduce efficiency and even cause overheating, which could lead to a complete system shutdown.
Pro Tip: Schedule a seasonal cleaning of the outdoor unit in both spring and fall to ensure it's always in good condition.
During hot summer months, it’s tempting to crank the thermostat down, but this can overwork your AC. Setting your thermostat to a moderate temperature and supplementing with ceiling fans or portable fans can ease the burden on your system. When you reduce the strain, your AC is less likely to break down from overuse.
Pro Tip: Program your thermostat to adjust temperatures when you're away from home to save energy and reduce wear on your system.
Annual or bi-annual maintenance is key to prolonging your AC’s lifespan. A professional technician can inspect your system for any potential issues, clean critical components, and ensure that everything is running smoothly. Preventative maintenance catches small problems early and keeps your AC in peak performance, saving you money in the long run.
Pro Tip: Consider signing up for a maintenance plan with your local HVAC provider for regular check-ups.
Preventing damage to your air conditioner comes down to regular care and attention. By following these simple steps, you can avoid inconvenient breakdowns and costly repairs while keeping your home cool and comfortable all year round.
Really nice honest guys. It was a pleasure to do business with a company that does exactly what they say theyre going to do! My basement was cleaner after they installed my new furnace and AC. Thanks again Greg and Grant and for doing such a great job.
5 star service!! I had twin tech install a high efficiency furnace and hot water tank at my home. I am taking time to write this review as a thanks for what I viewed as next level service that went above and beyond. Prior to installation they explained my specific options without pushy sales tactics and up front costs. Greg and Grant replaced a large portion of the duct work (built in their own shop) that had rusted over the years which resulted in a great looking job. It was a pleasure to work with people are passionate and take pride in their work. Following the installation they explained all aspects and maintenance of the new equipment. Products have worked flawlessly. Thanks again Greg and Grant! Highly recommend!!
Twin Tech was great; they were honest, reliable and very thorough. I would recommend their services and will definitely be using them in the future.
Hi Dave, Thank You Dave for coming to my aid this past summer when my AC quit. Your men did a great job installing and cleaning the area. The unit is working very well and i would highly recommend your company TwinTech. Dave you delivered what you sold and i truly appreciate it.
My experience with TWINTECH has been excellent, start to finish. While doing market research I made a list of several local companies and called them for some high-level information. Dave was the first to call me back, and the only one to book a meeting to see my place in order to give an informed, accurate estimate. He reviewed the different AC makes and models with me, explained the technology, and made a recommendation appropriate to my home. The installation went smoothly. I had one post-installation issue there was moderate noise/vibrations coming from the duct system. I called about this, booked an appointment, and the technician resolved the issue during the service call. I feel assured having a 10-year warranty on parts & labour. I would recommend TWINTECH to anyone considering an AC or furnace for their home. Regards,
Thank you for your attention to detail regarding my purchase of a new air conditioner. Twintech arrived at the appointed time and were totally professional on the installation process completing the job quickly. PS thanks for the assistance applying for the government rebate
Dave and the guys from Twintech did a great job of installing my AC. They came on time did a nice neat job and cleaned up after themselves! Do not waste your time call Twintech first.
My AC unit was not working at all and our furnace that was still working but not giving us any trouble was over 15 years old. So I had 3 heating companies come out to give us a quote on replacing both the AC and the furnace at the same time. Two companies right away recommended that I replace both units simply because they were old. Dave from twintech however suggested that we save some money and replace the AC only because it seemed to him that the furnace was still in great shape and was running fine. He told us that he would have his technicians inspect the furnace thoroughly when they had it apart to install the AC. My husband was at home when the furnace was apart and was very impressed when the tech took him downstairs to personally show him that the furnace was in excellent working condition. He also cleaned the furnace at no extra charge. So now I have an honest heating and AC company that I can highly recommend to other home owners. Great job Thank You!
I had made the decision to replace my furnace and AC earlier this year. After meeting with several HVAC contractors I decided to go with Dave and his company. Dave was on time, polite, friendly and very professional. He took the time to answer all my questions and to explain the scope of work that would be required to do the job. The technicians arrived on time did a professional installation and completed the job on schedule. They respected my home by putting down vinyl runners to protect my floors and did a very thorough clean up. Im very pleased with my decision to go with Dave and his team. I would highly recommend them to anyone who is considering upgrading their furnace and air conditioner.
I have no problem in recommending Dave and the TWINTECH team to any home owner who is looking for quality heating and AC products and expert service.
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We are very happy to recommend this company to everyone. Our furnace broke down on Sunday morning. We phoned them and before noon Grant the owner showed up. He worked on the furnace for about a hour not wanting to give up to fix the problem. The furnace was 17 years old. I was the one talking about replacing it. End result was the next day it was all done. On the Sunday Bob came over with heaters to warm up the house. We decided to replace the water heater at the same time. Thanks Grant for the excellent work. Thumbs up.
Right on time. Explained how to work the HRV in a different way so the house would not be so dry. Changed my whole house water filter for me as well. Friendly, helpful, caring service!
Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.
We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!
TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!
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