Preventive maintenance on your HVAC system is important
Preventive HVAC maintenance is the best way to keep your HVAC system in optimum operating condition. You play a vital role it keeping it running efficiently and your professional HVAC technician plays a vital role in keeping it running optimally.
Benefits of fall HVAC maintenance
A seasonal check-up allows you to make inexpensive minor adjustments before they become major expensive repairs. It also reduces your chances of a catastrophic breakdown of your heating system in the middle of a winter storm. Imagine being without heat while you wait to a new unit to arrive. No one wants to be without heat in the cold of winter even for a day…let alone for possibly weeks.
In severe weather, you run the risk of frozen pipes and life-threatening conditions for your family. Reduce these risks by scheduling fall maintenance on your HVAC system soon.
Additional benefits of fall HVAC maintenance include:
PROLONG THE LIFE OF YOUR ENTIRE SYSTEM
As is the case with any mechanical equipment, neglecting one small repair can lead to other mechanical malfunctions and even a serious breakdown. Regular maintenance helps decrease stress on your system.
LOWER YOUR OPERATING COSTS
Think of preventive maintenance like a tune-up for your car. Your HVAC system may seem to be operating well, but over time it loses its efficiency. It may need to run longer or burn more fuel to deliver the same performance that it did when it was new. A check-up will help it function efficiently and as inexpensively as possible.
REDUCE THE DANGERS OF FIRES AND CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING
When your heating system develops short circuits or cracks in the heat exchanger (which you will likely not know has happened), turning on the heater becomes dangerous. These conditions are typically identified and can be repaired during your fall maintenance check.
REDUCE THE NEED FOR REPAIRS
Simple DIY tasks plus professional system checks can reduce the frequency that you will need to call a technician for repairs. By addressing minor issues before they become problems, you will lower your overall maintenance costs.
Things you can do yourself
While you do need a professional to do a thorough inspection of the mechanical components of your system, you can and should do a few things that will help keep your system running smoothly.
CHANGE YOUR AIR FILTERS
Changing your air filters regularly is an easy DIY task and one that can be the most impactful. Keeping the air filters clean will help keep the system working efficiently and without undue strain.
How often you have to change your filter will depend upon what type of filter you have and your living conditions. If you have pets, you will likely have to change the filter more often.
A seasoned HVAC technician will be able to recommend the best filter for your system. Ask yours on their next visit if you haven’t done so already.
CLEAN LEAVES AND DEBRIS OFF OF YOUR OUTDOOR UNITS
Removing obstructions from around your unit will promote maximum airflow and help keep the system operating efficiently.
CLEAN YOUR INDOOR AIR VENTS AND REGISTERS
Vacuum out your vents to remove dirt and dust. You will also want to remove anything, such as furniture and draperies, that blocks the air flow. Blocked vents will obstruct air flow and cause your system to work harder.
MOVE COMBUSTIBLES AWAY FROM YOUR HEATING SYSTEM
Make sure any flammable or combustible products (fuels, propene, oils, paints, paint thinners, wood, etc.) are stored a safe distance from your heating system.
REPLACE CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR BATTERIES
A cracked heat exchanger will release carbon monoxide fumes into your home, creating a dangerous situation for you, your family, pets, and guests. While a cracked heat exchanger will likely be uncovered during a professional maintenance check, your carbon monoxide detector will alert you to excess fumes.
CHECK YOUR HUMIDIFIER
Test your humidifier by turning your humidistat to the highest setting to ensure your furnace turns on. Make sure the water level is correct and that water comes out when you lift the supply tube.
Things your professional HVAC technician will do
Ideally, before you start operating your heating system, schedule a professional to perform fall HVAC maintenance. Your HVAC technician will complete a full HVAC system inspection. The professionals at Presidential Heating and Air Conditioning offer a VIP Maintenance Plan that includes a comprehensive 25-point heating performance check. Below is a listing of some of the services provided:
INSPECT THE THERMOSTAT
For your system to work, your thermostat must work. Our technician will check to see if your thermostat is working as designed. If you don’t already have a Smart Thermostat, this might be the perfect time to install one. You can read about how they are revolutionizing home efficiency.
INSPECT SYSTEM CONTROLS
Our technician will make sure the start cycle, operation, and shut-off sequence are occurring properly.
INSPECT ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
We check and tighten any loose connections and measure voltage and electric current throughout the system.
INSPECT THE CONDENSATE LINES
We check condensate lines for blockages.
INSPECT THE BLOWER
Issues with the blower can decrease equipment efficiency by up to 15 percent. Our technicians will check to see if it is operating properly, it isn’t clogged, and that there aren’t any dried-out bearings.
INSPECT FUEL LINES
Poor gas or oil connections can create health issues and become a fire hazard. Our technicians will check to ensure the connections are tight and without damage.
INSPECT THE GAS PRESSURE, BURNER COMBUSTION AND HEAT EXCHANGER
Incorrect pressure, a dirty burner, or a cracked heat exchanger can result in improper burner operation. These issues can also create unsafe and inefficient operation. Adjusting the pressure and cleaning the burner can improve your system’s operation and lower your heating bills. Please note, however, that if your technician discovers the heat exchanger is cracked, you will likely need to purchase a new furnace. This is one of the reasons it is so important to have your HVAC checked in the fall before temperatures turn frigid.
Schedule your fall maintenance check-up
As you’ve read, fall HVAC maintenance is incredibly important and should be considered a top priority on your fall household chores list. If you have not had your heating system serviced in more than one year, now is the time to book your appointment. Delays can be expensive and even dangerous.
