The HVAC system in your home delivers the comfort you depend on, which is why it’s so important to have it serviced annually by a licensed HVAC professional. The equipment contains many electrical, mechanical and moving parts that work together to provide cooled or warmed air. A well-cared for system will perform efficiently, safely and dependably for many years.
1. Energy Efficiency
When the cooling and heating systems are professionally serviced each year, they run more efficiently. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that HVAC systems use approximately half of all energy consumed in residential settings. Cutting energy use through routine service not only lowers your energy bills, it reduces the overall demand for energy and resources.
When HVAC professionals service your system, they’ll inspect, clean and adjust all the system’s parts. Their goal is to bring the system back to its original settings as closely as possible, which improves its operating efficiency.
These systems are subject to vibrations and dust, both of which reduce their ability to run efficiently. While keeping the air filters clean and the outdoor condenser for the air conditioner help assure better performance, a skilled technician has the knowledge and tools to deep-clean the system and make adjustments based on the manufacturer’s specifications.
Periodically, the ductwork for forced-air systems needs to be inspected for leaks, excessive dirt, or breaches. Leaking ducts drive up energy costs in proportion to their size and lower indoor air quality.
2. Reliability
Sea Coast Air Conditioning said, “The first thing many people do before going on a road trip is to take their cars in for servicing, and the same should be done for your HVAC system before the start of the heating or cooling season.” When HVAC technicians go through your system, they spot problems that could contribute to premature part failure. They also test refrigerant levels which affects cooling systems and heat pumps.
Low refrigerant stresses the compressor or causes the evaporator coil for the cooling system to freeze. When the coil freezes over, all cooling stops and the compressor may be permanently damaged. Undetected leaks in the refrigerant lines may worsen, which could force an expensive repair or replacement.
3. Safety
The electrical inspections that HVAC professionals perform goes a long way toward preventing fires associated with cooling and heating equipment. Dirty, corroded electrical components build heat that could start a preventable fire.
Heating systems that use a combustible fuel need to be checked for safe operation with regard to fuel delivery, the combustion process and their venting. Any leaks in the fuel line running to the furnace or boiler are a serious safety risk.
A dust-covered heat exchanger poses a dangerous health hazard that’s largely preventable by routine HVAC servicing. The heat exchanger lies next to the burner in combustion heating systems, and when it’s covered with dust, it will stay hot longer. The additional heat stresses the metal and may crack the heat exchanger.
These cracks can emit carbon monoxide (CO) into your home’s air. CO is a deadly gas that has no odor, smell or color. Often, a cracked heat exchanger necessitates an expensive furnace repair or a complete replacement. By law, the HVAC technician must disable your furnace, leaving you in the cold until the repairs or replacement is finished.
HVAC experts verify that the flue for the heating system’s combustion gases is clean, tight and leak-free. A leaky flue will send CO throughout your home, and an overly dirty flue indicates problems with the combustion process.
4. Durability
HVAC systems are often the most expensive appliance in the home, and routine maintenance prolongs their longevity. Most systems last between 12 and 20 years as long as they receive the servicing they require. In fact, many HVAC system manufacturers require proof of maintenance to keep their warranty coverage active, another significant benefit of annual professional HVAC maintenance.
