Saving Money on Air Conditioning Repair and Maintenance is not cheap

Experts say you should not cut back when it comes to routine maintenance of your home and vehicle.


Greensboro -- As the cost of filling up your gas tank and grocery cart continues to rise, some families are trying to trim their budgets elsewhere. However, experts say you should not skimp when it comes to routine maintenance of your home and vehicle.

"You should have your air conditioner serviced every spring," explained Scott Loye with Williams Plumbing, Heating and Air. "If you start replacing heating and air conditioning equipment, it can get very expensive. You would be surprised how many calls we run where we prevent big repair bills."

Loye says an annual maintenance contract for heating and air conditioning will cost $150 to $300. He says replacing and air conditioning unit can range from $3,500 to $7,500.

"I think it's well worth it," said Rosemary Prelich, who has her heating and air conditioning systems checked twice a year. "I hear stories of people who don't do anything and when it blows they end up replacing the whole unit."

In addition to your home, experts say you should also budget for routine maintenance on your vehicle. "Oil changes should be performed every 3,000 miles," explained Terry McNeil with Precision Tune Autocare. "Properly inflated tires will help on fuel economy. A clogged air filter will cost 5-10 percent in your fuel economy."

If you follow the maintenance guidelines outlined in your vehicle's user manual, McNeil says your vehicle will run more efficiently and last longer.

"I make sure my car is maintained," said Prelich. "It's better than if something major happens and you're hit with the entire expense at once."