Avoid common AC maintenance mistakes. Champion and Nash shares expert tips to keep your Houston air conditioner efficient, reliable, and long-lasting.
Air conditioning is a necessity in Houston, where summer heat and humidity aren’t just uncomfortable—they’re often relentless. In these extreme conditions, your AC system doesn’t just keep you comfortable—it protects your home, your health, and your peace of mind. But too often, homeowners underestimate how vital proper AC maintenance is to the system’s performance and lifespan.
The truth is, even a brand-new, high-efficiency air conditioner can underperform or fail prematurely if it’s not properly cared for. Energy efficiency drops. Utility bills creep up. Repairs become more frequent. And before you know it, you're facing a costly replacement years earlier than expected. That’s why maintenance isn’t optional—it’s a critical part of homeownership in a climate like Houston’s.
Unfortunately, many homeowners unknowingly make common mistakes that sabotage their AC’s performance. These aren’t major oversights like ignoring a complete system breakdown—they’re everyday habits or maintenance tasks that seem small but quietly damage your system over time. Champion and Nash has seen firsthand how these small missteps add up to big problems.
From skipping seasonal tune-ups to overlooking insulation quality, these mistakes can cost you hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars over the life of your system. What makes them especially dangerous is how easy they are to make, even with the best intentions. We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you avoid those pitfalls and get the most from your investment.
Understanding how your AC works and what it needs can help you take better care of it. And more importantly, knowing what not to do is just as essential. So whether you’re a new homeowner or simply want to avoid an emergency call in the middle of August, this list is for you.
According to Energy Star and HVAC industry data:
Here are the top 10 AC maintenance mistakes we see at Champion and Nash—and how you can avoid them.
1. Forgetting to Change the Air Filter One of the most common and damaging mistakes is ignoring your air filter. Your AC system needs steady airflow to operate efficiently. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forces the system to work harder, and can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. This not only reduces cooling performance but can also lead to higher energy bills and breakdowns.
Most homes in Houston need a filter change every 30 to 60 days—more often if you have pets, allergies, or run your system continuously during hot months.
2. Skipping Annual Tune-Ups An annual (or better yet, biannual) AC tune-up is crucial, especially in climates like Houston. Skipping tune-ups allows minor issues to grow into expensive repairs. During a maintenance visit, professionals check refrigerant levels, clean the coils, inspect electrical components, and make sure your system is running safely and efficiently.
Neglecting this can shorten your system’s life by several years.
3. Blocking Vents and Registers Closing air vents in unused rooms may seem like a way to save money, but it can actually cause system imbalances. Your AC is designed to push air through a specific number of vents. Blocking them causes pressure to build in the ducts, which strains the blower motor and increases the risk of duct leaks.
Keep all vents open and unobstructed, and ensure furniture or rugs aren’t blocking return air grilles.
4. Ignoring Unusual Noises or Smells Your AC unit shouldn’t make much noise. If you hear banging, squealing, or buzzing, something’s wrong. Likewise, burning or musty smells could signal electrical issues or mold growth. Ignoring these early warning signs often leads to costlier repairs down the line.
If something seems off, it probably is. Call a licensed HVAC technician to check it out.
5. Attempting DIY Repairs Without Experience The internet is full of DIY repair videos, but unless you’re trained, working on your AC system can be dangerous and costly. Improper handling of refrigerants, electrical components, or internal parts can lead to injury or more damage.
Houston homeowners should leave repairs to certified professionals like Champion and Nash. It’s safer and often cheaper in the long run.
6. Neglecting the Outdoor Condenser Unit Your outdoor unit needs breathing room. If it’s surrounded by tall grass, leaves, or debris, it can’t release heat properly. That leads to overheating, reduced efficiency, and early compressor failure.
Check around your outdoor unit regularly. Trim back plants at least two feet on all sides, and gently rinse off dirt or dust from the coils using a hose.
7. Running the AC With Poor Insulation If your home isn’t properly insulated, your AC has to work harder to keep it cool. Attic insulation, window seals, and weather stripping all play a role. Poor insulation means cool air escapes and hot air gets in—especially during Houston’s triple-digit summer days.
Before upgrading your AC, evaluate your home’s energy efficiency. You might be able to lower cooling demands and energy bills with a few insulation upgrades.
8. Setting the Thermostat Too Low Setting your thermostat to 68°F on a 98°F day won’t cool your house any faster—it’ll just force the system to run longer. Over time, this strains components, reduces energy efficiency, and increases the risk of failure.
Instead, set your thermostat between 74°F and 78°F and use ceiling fans to help circulate cool air. Smart thermostats can also help optimize settings based on your schedule.
9. Not Cleaning the Drain Line Your AC’s drain line removes moisture collected from the air. In Houston’s humid climate, this line can clog with algae or dirt. If that happens, it can cause water to back up into the system or even leak into your home.
Pour a cup of vinegar down the drain line every few months to keep it clear. Or ask your technician to inspect and flush it during each maintenance visit.
10. Overlooking Maintenance Plans Many homeowners only call for service when there’s a problem. But having a maintenance plan with a trusted provider like Champion and Nash ensures your system is inspected, tuned up, and protected year-round. These plans often include priority service, repair discounts, and scheduled visits—so you don’t forget.
Staying comfortable in Houston’s heat takes more than a powerful AC unit. It takes attention to the little things—like changing filters, scheduling regular tune-ups, and being proactive with issues before they escalate. Avoiding these common maintenance mistakes can extend your system’s life, reduce energy costs, and keep your home reliably cool.
Need help maintaining your AC system? Contact Champion and Nash for affordable, expert air conditioning service in Houston. We’ll keep your system running efficiently all year long.
1. How often should I change my AC filter in Houston? In Houston's hot and dusty climate, filters should typically be changed every 30 to 60 days. If you have pets, allergies, or run your AC frequently, it's best to check the filter monthly. A clean filter keeps airflow strong and protects your system from dust buildup and stress.
2. Is it necessary to service my AC if it’s working fine? Yes. Even if your AC seems to be running normally, hidden issues can build over time—like worn electrical components, refrigerant imbalance, or dirty coils. A professional tune-up catches these early, helping you avoid expensive breakdowns and preserve efficiency.
3. What happens if I block air vents in unused rooms? Blocking vents may seem like a way to save energy, but it actually disrupts airflow and increases system pressure. This can strain your blower motor, reduce cooling performance, and cause duct leaks. It’s better to leave vents open and unobstructed.
4. How can I tell if my AC drain line is clogged? Signs include water pooling near the unit, musty smells, or the system shutting down due to a float switch. Houston’s humidity increases the risk of algae growth. Flushing the line with vinegar every few months helps keep it clear.
5. Are maintenance plans really worth it? Absolutely. Maintenance plans offer scheduled tune-ups, priority service, and repair discounts—all of which save you money and stress. Partnering with a trusted provider like Champion and Nash ensures your AC system is professionally cared for year-round.
