Your HVAC system is a machine. It is made up of different moving parts and houses several electrical and mechanical components. Just like the engine of your car or machinery in a manufacturing company, it also needs tuning every now and then to make it perform at an optimum level. Keeping your HVAC equipment tuned is a critical part of maintenance and it does so many wonders for your system. For one, it extends the life span of the components, improves comfort levels for your living space, promotes energy efficiency, and eventually helping you save money.
It is important to have your system tuned, regardless of the type or fuel source it uses. All kinds of HVAC units need regular professional servicing, and if you fail in this responsibility, you put your system at risk of total failure, which in turn forces you to have it replaced sooner than later. Professional tune-ups are recommended and they must be carried out at least once a year.
So what do you get if you let the pros inspect your HVAC equipment? Well, you’re spending money obviously, but it is for a good cause. As we mentioned earlier, the HVAC equipment is made of up many moving parts, which means any glitch or external force disrupting the movement of those parts will cause some problem. With an inspection and professional tuning, a small problem is quickly detected, averting a possible costly repair.
A typical inspection usually includes:
- Looking at the condensate drain since a problem in this area affects humidity levels at home and could lead to water damage, too. The central AC system, heat pump, and furnace all have condensate drains.
- Lubricating the moving parts. Obviously, the lack of lubrication causes friction, which in turn causes unnecessary wearing of those same parts. Likewise, un-lubricated parts means the system also uses more energy in the process.
- Checking the system controls as it is crucial in ensuring that the equipment’s starting cycles operate with utmost efficiency and safety.
- Checking the thermostat, because this device plays a major role in controlling the temperature inside your home. It tells the HVAC how to achieve the right comfort level, so if it broken, damaged, or needs replacement, it wouldn’t work the way it is supposed to.
- Tightening the electrical components, since your HVAC system has a lot of it inside. Keep in mind that even the smallest of faulty connections can result to sparks, which in turn leads to fire. Also, faulty electrical connections will shorten the lifespan of your unit.
- Running the system through heating cycle. The purpose of this tune up strategy is to make sure that there is enough chimney draft and air combustion. Likewise, it aims to figure out if there is an alarming level of carbon monoxide in your living space.
- Inspecting, cleaning, or changing the air filters. With dirty air filters, airflow is affected, which in turn forces your system to work harder just to achieve an ideal comfort level inside. Tuning up your HVAC means monitoring the health of the air filters, and the pros will check their condition and change them if needed. There are times when the filter is still salvageable and only needs cleaning.
- Cleaning the blower components and coils for your AC unit. Doing so helps in guaranteeing clearer airflow as well as prolonging the life of your system. Air conditioning systems are only efficient when the components are free from dirt, dust, and other debris.
Keeping your HVAC equipment tuned helps you in so many ways. While some homeowners do not acknowledge the need for maintenance, you must know that it is the best way to ensure you can use your HVAC system for its expected life span.