If your air conditioner seems to run all day for much of the year, the standard once-a-year tune-up may not be enough to keep it working efficiently and avoid surprise repair bills.

That is worth paying attention to, because a home's heating and cooling system can be one of the biggest drivers of utility costs — and it's one of the best opportunities to save money amid rising energy prices.

Here's what to know

According to SlashGear, the standard advice for most home AC systems is professional service at least once a year. During that visit, a licensed technician will usually inspect electrical connections, clean the coils, confirm refrigerant levels, and look for leaks or other problems.

The outlet noted a yearly check is only a starting point, though. Systems in hotter areas or homes where the AC runs through most of the year, or close to nonstop, log far more operating time than units used for only a brief summer season.

More runtime can mean faster component wear, weaker efficiency, and higher energy use. Age adds to that risk. SlashGear noted that air conditioners often last about eight to 20 years.

If you are weighing a bigger upgrade instead of repeated repairs, Palmetto can help you understand your HVAC options and slash your energy bills with new HVAC systems and heat pumps. Its Comfort Plan network can connect you with vetted installers and efficient home heating and cooling solutions.

More background

For many households, AC maintenance is not just about staying comfortable. A neglected system can use more electricity, which means you may end up paying more each month just to get the same level of cooling.

One common culprit is a dirty filter. As it clogs, airflow can fall, coil icing becomes more likely, and the system has to work harder than necessary. That can push bills higher and make a breakdown during the hottest part of the year more likely.

Some tasks still need a professional. SlashGear noted that checking refrigerant and recharging the system are part of professional servicing, and the average unlicensed DIYer cannot legally do that work.

Homeowners can still help their system between service visits with a few simple steps. As SlashGear suggested, regularly cleaning or replacing the HVAC filter, wiping the filter housing with a soft cloth, and changing thermostat batteries before they die can all help keep things running smoothly.

What can be done?

If your AC is older or constantly under strain, it may be worth comparing the cost of repeated service calls with the savings from a more efficient system. Upgrading your heating and cooling setup is one of the most effective ways to cut utility bills, and efficient heat pumps can also reduce the amount of energy your home needs overall.

Palmetto can help you sort through those choices. Through its Comfort Plan, homeowners who are not ready to spend up front can explore $0-down options that can lower heating and cooling costs by up to 50%. Palmetto Comfort Plans also include 12 years of free maintenance.

You can drive those costs down even further by pairing solar panels with electric appliances, such as efficient HVAC systems. EnergySage makes it easy to find the best solar system and installer for your home and budget, potentially saving you up to $10,000.

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