What Lorton Homeowners Often Get Wrong About AC Maintenance

Living in Lorton, VA, means relying on your air conditioner for a good part of the year. Between humid summers that regularly hit the upper 80s and 90s and spring and fall seasons where humidity still lingers, your AC isn’t just for comfort—it’s a necessity. And while winters in Northern Virginia aren’t always harsh, occasional cold snaps and unpredictable weather mean your HVAC system has to stay flexible and ready year-round. That’s where AC Maintenance comes to mind.

Yet, despite how heavily we depend on cooling systems in this part of Virginia, many homeowners unknowingly take their AC for granted—until it breaks down. It’s not carelessness. It’s usually a mix of assumptions, bad habits, and misinformation that slowly chip away at the performance and efficiency of a unit that could otherwise last for 12–15 years or more.

In fact, some of the most common maintenance mistakes are ones homeowners don’t even realize they’re making—like skipping coil cleanings, closing off vents to save energy, or ignoring that musty smell that’s been getting stronger every summer. These aren’t just technical oversights. They’re everyday habits that quietly waste energy, lead to expensive repairs, and reduce system lifespan.

If you live in Lorton or the broader Northern Virginia area, this article is for you. We’ll walk through the 10 most common AC maintenance mistakes and—more importantly—how to avoid them. Whether you’ve had your system for one year or ten, these tips will help you keep your AC running efficiently, avoid surprise breakdowns, and get the most value from your investment.

Let’s get started with what homeowners in Lorton most often get wrong—and how you can get it right.

1. Waiting Until Something Breaks to Call a Technician

Too often, homeowners think HVAC maintenance is only necessary when something goes wrong. The truth is, air conditioning systems need proactive care, not just emergency fixes.

Preventative maintenance keeps your system efficient, safe, and long-lasting. Neglecting annual tune-ups may not seem like a big deal—until your AC stops working in the middle of July.

Fix it: Schedule an annual AC check-up every spring, even if your system seems to be working fine. A trained technician can catch small issues before they lead to expensive repairs.

2. Thinking a New System Doesn’t Need Maintenance

Some homeowners in Lorton assume that if their system is new, it doesn’t need attention. But even brand-new AC units require annual maintenance to preserve their warranty and prevent early breakdowns.

Fix it: Maintenance isn’t just for old units. It’s what keeps new systems running like new. Most manufacturers require proof of annual maintenance to keep your warranty valid.

3. Forgetting to Change the Air Filter

This is one of the simplest AC maintenance tasks—and one of the most overlooked. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing your system to work harder. That means higher energy bills, more wear and tear, and reduced indoor air quality.

Fix it: Set a reminder to check and change your air filter every 1 to 3 months. If you have pets or allergies, monthly changes are even more important.

4. Ignoring Unusual Noises or Odors

Many Lorton homeowners brush off weird AC sounds or musty smells, hoping they’ll just go away. But these are often signs of serious issues—like electrical faults, loose parts, or even mold buildup.

Fix it: If your AC rattles, bangs, smells like mildew, or sounds louder than usual, call for service. Early intervention can prevent system failure or costly repairs.

5. Closing Vents to “Save Energy”

Some people think closing air vents in unused rooms will save money. In reality, this forces your system to work harder by disrupting airflow and increasing pressure in the ducts.

Fix it: Keep vents open in all rooms to allow balanced airflow. If you need to control temperatures room by room, ask about installing a zoned HVAC system.

6. Skipping Coil Cleaning in AC Maintenance

Both evaporator and condenser coils need to stay clean for your AC to cool effectively. Dirty coils lead to reduced efficiency and can eventually cause the unit to overheat or freeze up.

Fix it: During an annual AC Maintenance visit, your technician should clean both indoor and outdoor coils. This simple task can dramatically improve cooling performance and extend the system’s life.

7. Thinking Bigger Always Means Better

When it’s time for replacement, some homeowners ask for the biggest unit they can afford—assuming it will cool their home faster. But oversized units short-cycle, leading to poor humidity control, uneven temperatures, and premature wear.

Fix it: The right system size depends on your home’s square footage, insulation, ductwork, and layout. Let a licensed technician like Michael Bonsby HVAC perform a proper load calculation before installing a new unit.

8. Failing to Seal Air Leaks and Insulate Properly 

Your AC might be running well, but if cool air is escaping through leaks or poorly insulated walls, your system is working overtime. This not only drives up energy costs but also reduces indoor comfort.

Fix it: AC Maintenance consists of seal cracks around windows, doors, and ductwork. Add insulation where needed, especially in older homes. A home energy audit can help you identify problem areas.

9. Overlooking the Outdoor Unit

Many Lorton homeowners forget about the outdoor condenser unit, letting grass, leaves, or mulch crowd it. A blocked unit can’t release heat properly, making your system work harder and less efficiently.

Fix it: Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit. Trim back plants, clean off debris, and never lean objects against the unit.

10. Assuming All HVAC Companies Are the Same

Whether it’s choosing the cheapest bid or hiring a technician without checking credentials, trusting the wrong company can lead to poor service, misdiagnoses, and unnecessary replacements.

Fix it: Choose a licensed, insured HVAC provider with great local reviews and proven experience in Lorton and Northern Virginia. Michael Bonsby HVAC is known for transparent pricing, honest recommendations, and reliable AC Maintenance in the region.

The Numbers Behind AC Maintenance in Virginia

If you’re still wondering whether annual maintenance is worth it, here are a few stats that tell the story:

• 9 out of 10 HVAC failures are due to a lack of maintenance (U.S. Department of Energy)

• Proper maintenance can reduce energy bills by up to 15%

• A dirty filter can increase your AC’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%

• In Northern Virginia, the average AC repair costs between $200 and $1,000, depending on the problem

• Replacing a neglected system prematurely could cost $6,000–$10,000

These numbers show how a little routine care goes a long way—both in savings and system longevity.

Bonus: What a Professional AC Maintenance Visit Should Include

Here’s what homeowners in Lorton can expect when scheduling an AC tune-up with Michael Bonsby HVAC:

• ✔ Filter check and replacement

• ✔ Thermostat calibration

• ✔ Refrigerant level check

• ✔ Coil cleaning

• ✔ Drain line flush

• ✔ Electrical inspection

• ✔ Fan and motor lubrication

• ✔ System performance testing

This checklist ensures your system is safe, efficient, and summer-ready.

Final Thoughts: Get Ahead, Stay Comfortable

AC maintenance in Lorton, VA, isn’t just about preventing breakdowns—it’s about improving home comfort, lowering costs, and protecting your investment. The most common mistakes homeowners make aren’t about laziness—they’re about not knowing what to watch for.

By avoiding these 10 common missteps, you can extend your AC’s life, save on your utility bills, and stay cool all summer long.

If you live in Lorton or Northern Virginia, the trusted team at Michael Bonsby HVAC is here to help. From seasonal tune-ups to emergency repairs and full system installations, we offer the expertise and care your home deserves.