7 AC Maintenance Mistakes Shreveport Homeowners Often Make (And How to Avoid Them)
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Living in Shreveport or Bossier City, LA, where summer temperatures regularly soar into the 90s and humidity feels like a wall you walk into, a dependable air conditioner isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential. But even if you’re proactive about AC care, it’s surprisingly easy to make small missteps that can cost you big in repairs, higher energy bills, or even system failure.
Below are 7 of the most common AC maintenance mistakes our Bossier City and Shreveport air conditioning experts see in the field—plus practical, detailed tips to help you avoid them. If you spot yourself in any of these, don’t worry. Fixing them is simpler (and less expensive) than you think.
1. Skipping Routine AC Tune-Ups
Why it matters: Regular maintenance keeps your system efficient, reliable, and energy-conscious. Without professional servicing, your AC could be running inefficiently without you even realizing it.
What can go wrong:
- Unexpected breakdowns during peak summer heat
- Gradual wear on critical components like capacitors and fan motors
- Increased cooling costs over time
- Shortened equipment lifespan due to unnoticed issues
What to do instead: Book annual AC tune ups in Shreveport, LA each spring—before the heat wave hits. A professional tune-up includes coil cleaning, refrigerant checks, thermostat calibration, lubrication of moving parts, and overall system diagnostics. This isn’t just box-checking—it’s a strategy for long-term savings and peace of mind.
2. Forgetting to Replace the Air Filter
Why it matters: A clogged or dirty air filter suffocates your system, reducing airflow and forcing your AC to work overtime just to keep your space cool.
What can go wrong:
- Higher energy bills due to increased strain
- Reduced airflow leading to uneven cooling
- Dust buildup on coils, which reduces efficiency
- More allergens and pollutants circulating indoors
What to do instead: Check your filter once a month during high-usage seasons. Households with pets, smokers, or allergy sufferers should consider changing filters every 30 days. Use a high-efficiency pleated filter for improved air quality and better system protection.
3. Ignoring Strange Noises or Smells
Why it matters: Unusual sounds or odors are often your system’s early way of saying, “Something’s wrong.” Catching these signs early can save you thousands.
What to look out for:
- Hissing or bubbling (possible refrigerant leak—especially harmful to your compressor)
- Grinding or squealing (issues with blower motor bearings or belt alignment)
- Musty smells (moisture buildup and mold, often in ductwork or drip pans)
- Burning odors (potential electrical problem or motor overheating)
What to do instead: If your AC sounds or smells off, don’t wait. Shut it down and call a professional for AC repair in Shreveport or AC repair in Bossier City.
4. Setting the Thermostat Too Low
Why it matters: Setting the thermostat to an ultra-low temperature doesn’t cool your home faster—it just makes your system run longer and harder, wasting energy and stressing components.
What can go wrong:
- Frozen evaporator coils
- Excessive energy use
- Short-cycling (where your unit turns on and off too frequently, wearing out parts prematurely)
What to do instead: For optimal comfort and efficiency, keep your thermostat between 74–78°F. Better yet, install a smart thermostat that adjusts based on your habits and occupancy. That way, you stay comfortable while trimming cooling costs.
5. Blocking Vents with Furniture or Clutter
Why it matters: Supply and return vents are crucial for balanced airflow. When they’re blocked, your system struggles to circulate air properly, leading to hot and cold spots and wasted energy.
What can go wrong:
- Overworked blower motor
- Imbalanced air pressure in your home (which can lead to moisture issues)
- Increased runtime, reducing energy efficiency
What to do instead: Walk through your home and inspect every vent. Move furniture, curtains, rugs, or boxes that may be blocking airflow. If your layout makes this difficult, consider vent deflectors to help redirect air around obstructions.
6. Attempting DIY Repairs Beyond Your Skill Level
Why it matters: Your HVAC system contains pressurized refrigerant, electrical wiring, and delicate sensors. Mistakes can be dangerous—and expensive.
What can go wrong:
- Risk of electrical shock or fire
- Voided manufacturer warranties
- Damaged components from incorrect installation or diagnosis
What to do instead: Stick to DIY basics like replacing filters, clearing debris, and cleaning vents. For refrigerant issues, capacitor replacements, wiring problems, or anything involving dismantling your system, call a certified HVAC technician in Shreveport or Bossier City. We’ve seen well-meaning DIYers make problems far worse than they started.
7. Neglecting the Outdoor Unit
Why it matters: Your condenser needs airflow to dump heat outside. Without proper clearance and cleanliness, your whole system becomes less effective.
What can go wrong:
- Poor heat transfer leading to longer cooling cycles
- System overheating and potential shutoffs
- Shortened compressor life
What to do instead: Keep at least 24–36 inches of clearance around your outdoor unit. Regularly remove leaves, grass, and pollen from the fan grill. Use a soft garden hose (never pressure wash!) to gently rinse off dirt from the fins. Schedule a pro cleaning if buildup is significant.
Need AC Maintenance Service in Shreveport or Bossier City, LA?
Avoiding these common maintenance mistakes helps you stay cool, lower your bills, and extend the life of your HVAC system. Whether you need a seasonal check-up, a fast repair, or want to explore a long-term maintenance plan, SBC Cooling & Heating is ready to help.
Schedule your AC maintenance service in Shreveport, LA today and stay ahead of the summer heat.
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