Is It “Really” Necessary To Maintain My
Heating and Air Conditioning System?
This is a question we are
often asked and the answer is a resounding Yes! The home HVAC system is a quiet
workhorse that is easily forgotten until it breaks down. It is a machine with
moving parts just like your car; and it needs to be properly maintained.
Honestly, would one even
think of not maintaining something as important as his/her car? Most cars are a large investment and most are
depended on daily; the same is true of your HVAC system. It is an investment
that a homeowner is wise to maintain.
Routine maintenance is not a cure all for your car, nor is it for your
HVAC system. Both are still machines
with parts that wear out in time and use. Routine maintenance will ensure that
your equipment is operating at its maximum potential.
The Difference?
Your heating and air
conditioning system can account for a large portion of your energy bill. According to the article, "Heat and Cool Efficiently" on energystar.gov, the average
household spends more than $2,200 a year on energy bills and up to half of that
can be attributed to a home’s heating and air conditioning system. If half of
one’s energy expense goes to operate the HVAC system, one can save money by
keeping it clean. The article further states, “Dirt and neglect are the top causes of heating
and cooling inefficiency and failure.” It just makes good sense and good cents to
maintain your system and ensure that it is operating efficiently.
In addition to better
performance, a well-maintained system typically lasts longer than one that is
not maintained. It stands to reason that if a unit is operating continually
dirty and clogged that it will be running longer and working harder than is
necessary. This will inevitably lead to premature failure.
What Can A Homeowner Do?
A conscientious homeowner can
check the filters once a month to ensure they are clean especially during times
of heavier use, such as winter and summer. Change it immediately if it is dirty
or a minimum of every three months. Another good practice is keeping the
outdoor unit free from debris and grass that could impair its operation. It is always safer to cut grass around the
unit with the grass blowing away from the unit or better yet, turn it off at
the thermostat. If your unit has an air handler in the attic or under the
house, keep the space around it free form stored items to allow for proper
operation.
Finally, call a trusted HVAC
contractor to get a professional tune up for your equipment twice a year-fall
and spring. This will ensure the system will be ready for the heavier use of
winter and summer.
A Trained Professional Can:
Perform general maintenance for both seasons
ü Inspect thermostat operation
ü Check for loose electrical connections
ü Measure voltage and current on motors
ü Lubricate all moving parts
ü Inspect condensate drain, clean pan and drain line
(leaks can be expensive)
ü Check the system controls to assure the system is
cycling properly
ü Inspect, clean or change air filter
Perform at heating maintenance appointment
ü Inspect flue pipe
ü Inspect gas piping
ü Inspect heat exchanger (A cracked heat exchanger would
allowdangerous
carbon monoxide into your home or business.)
ü Inspect gas and oil connections
ü Inspect gas inspection
Perform at air conditioning maintenance appointment
ü Clean coils
ü Check refrigerant and adjust if necessary
ü Inspect blower components and clean to ensure proper
airflow
ü Inspect and test capacitor
As one can see, it is
“really” necessary to maintain your HVAC equipment to maximize the efficiency
and the life expectancy of the unit. Contact a trusted heating and air
conditioning contractor near you today. Many contractors offer maintenance
agreements or contracts to maintain your HVAC equipment. Energy savings and
system longevity often offset the cost.
Most contractors also offer discounted labor and parts, as well as priority
service to their agreement customers. This is especially helpful in busy times
of the year, such as winter and summer.
No comments:
Post a Comment