"N.J. Crane" wrote:
I have a soon to be 5 year old Trane Air Conditioner. Is it necessary
to have service done at this time?

See your owner's manual for recommended maintenance (XR12 A/C excerpted
below). Some of the work can be done by the homeowner, some requires a
trained technician. If you don't consider yourself trained then you should
hire a contractor for the 'dealer' work.
Homeowner's tasks:

Help ensure top efficiency by cleaning or replacing the filter monthly.*
When the air conditioner circulates and filters the air in your home, dust
and dirt particles build up on the filter. Excessive accumulation can block
the airflow, forcing the unit to work harder to maintain desired
temperatures. And the harder your unit works, the more energy it uses. Clean
or replace your filter twice a month during seasons when the unit runs more
often. When replacing your filter(s), always use the same size and type that
was originally supplied. Filters are available from your dealer. Where
disposable filters are used, they must be replaced every month with the same
size as originally supplied.

How to remove your filter.* Ask your Trane dealer where the filter is
located in your system and how to service it. Just be sure to replace it
with the arrows pointing in the direction of the airflow. Efficiency can be
maintained by keeping outdoor unit clear of debris, leaves and shrubbery.
Efficient operation of your air conditioner depends on the free flow of air
over the coil. Anything that blocks the airflow, causes the compressor to
work harder to move the warm air out of your house. To avoid overworking
your unit, do not plant flowers or shrubbery right next to it. Also, make
sure that nothing is stacked against the sides of the unit or draped over
it. Making sure your outdoor unit is kept clear at all times helps it work
at peak efficiency.

Keep your air conditioner looking new for years. Clean the enamel finish of
your air conditioner with soap and water. For stubborn grease spots, use a
household detergent. Do not use lacquer thinner or other synthetic solvents
as they may damage the finish.

Call your dealer for additional routine maintenance:

Your air conditioning system should be inspected regularly by a properly
trained service technician. The inspection (preferably twice each year, but
at least once a year) should include the following:

.. Routine inspection of air filter(s). Replacement or cleaning as required.

.. Inspection and cleaning of the blower wheel, housing, and motor as
required.

.. Inspection and, if required, cleaning of indoor and outdoor coils.

.. Inspection of the indoor coil drain pan, plus the primary and secondary
drain lines. If supplied, the auxiliary drain pan and line should be
inspected at this time. Service should include cleaning, if required.

.. A check of all electrical wiring and connections.

.. A check for secure physical connections of individual components within
units.

.. Operational check for the air conditioning system to determine actual
working condition. Necessary repair and/or adjustment should be performed at
this time.