The HVAC industry recommends scheduling heating maintenance at least once a year. Despite that, many homeowners don’t schedule service until there’s a problem. Let’s explore why that’s a mistake.
When to Schedule
The best time to schedule a heating tune-up is in the early fall. That way, a technician has serviced and started your heater before you ever need to run it. Still, it’s better to schedule maintenance late than not at all.
Warranty Protection
Another reason routine maintenance is important is that most HVAC warranties require it. HVAC companies provide proof of services with their tune-ups. Should anything happen, at least you have a valid warranty protecting you.
Multipoint Inspection
During a tune-up, technicians will perform a model-specific multipoint inspection. All heating systems experience normal wear and tear over time. This lets technicians identify and correct it. That includes tightening mechanical and electrical connections, replacing worn wires, lubricating moving parts, and so forth. With fuel-burning furnaces and boilers, it’s essential to check burners, heat exchangers, and combustion chambers for defects. Such defects can lead to toxic gases in the home in addition to winter breakdowns. With heat pumps, it’s essential to check the refrigerant pressure and the compressor pump.
Comprehensive Cleaning
Throughout that process, technicians will thoroughly clean all of the parts. It’s crucial for fuel-burning systems because components can build up carbon deposits. Left unattended, the accumulation can cause part failures and even fires. Heat pumps have condenser and evaporator coils that build up grime over time and reduce efficiency. The indoor coil can even be a breeding ground for microbial growth that undermines your indoor air quality. Clean equipment is more efficient and less prone to issues beyond normal deterioration.
Proactive Repairs
Some repairs are unavoidable. Electrical wires will wear out over time and need replacement. Modern heating systems often have ball bearings that will eventually fail. Belt-driven systems may need belt replacement several times throughout their lifespans. Technicians can spot the deterioration and recommend replacement immediately. Proactive repairs are generally less expensive, and they give you control over the timing. If you wait, you may have a ball bearing fail, for instance, in the middle of a winter storm.
Maintenance Plans
It’s a good idea to take advantage of an HVAC maintenance plan. Membership usually includes two annual tune-ups at a discount. You won’t have to worry about forgetting because the company will provide you with reminders. Membership often includes other perks as well, such as priority service, service discounts, waived dispatch charges, and more.
Ace Home Services in Phoenix, AZ performs preventative heating maintenance that gives homeowners peace of mind. Call today or contact us online to schedule your appointment.