If you want peace of mind that your HVAC system is in tip-top shape, you may want to consider a maintenance plan. The HVAC system for your home is very important and you want it to operate as it should at all times. It keeps you warm in the cold months and cool in the hot months, and it helps provide air quality in the house. When your HVAC system doesn’t work properly, more than likely your home isn’t as comfortable as you would like it to be. Usually, things break at inopportune times like during off-business hours and, if so, the cost will be higher. But, if you have an HVAC maintenance plan, your service may be much less expensive even considering the cost of the plan.
So you may be asking if a regular HVAC maintenance plan is a good idea. What are the benefits of HVAC maintenance, and what are the drawbacks? Are there more positives than negatives in signing up for a plan on your HVAC system? In this article our team at 6 & Fix Services outlines the benefits and the drawbacks of HVAC maintenance service plans to help you decide.
What Can Go Wrong with HVAC Systems?
An HVAC system is rather complex and a lot can go wrong. Some fixes you may be able to handle on your own if you are inclined that way. But, many of the issues may be both difficult to diagnose and to fix. Being proactive and preventative is critical in keeping future problems from occurring. These are some common issues that an HVAC system can have over time:
Leaks
An HVAC system has drain lines and connectors that can develop leaks. When you have a leak, it causes the system to work harder, resulting in a greater likelihood that components may break and need replacing. Keep a vigilant eye on the refrigerant lines, the AC condensate line and the heat exchanger, as these are places where leaks can occur.
Corrosion
Wherever there is wiring and moisture, corrosion can occur. If your system has corrosion on any wires or terminals, your heating and cooling system may turn on and off intermittently on its own. This will cause the HVAC system to work harder than it needs to. After some time, components will break or the entire system may break.
Dirt and Debris
Dirt and debris are enemies of the HVAC system. HVAC units reside outdoors, so they are vulnerable to dirt and debris. It’s imperative that your HVAC system is clean and free of debris in order to work efficiently. Be sure that air filters are clean so that the air quality in your home is free from allergens and dust.
What is Regular HVAC Maintenance?
There are maintenance tasks that need to be done to your HVAC on a regular schedule in order to extend the life of your system. Certain things you can do, and should do, on a regular basis to maintain your system such as checking for leaks, corrosion, and dirt as well as replacing air filters every 90 days.
Other regular maintenance is best done by a professional due to the complexities of the system. For example, a professional can check for proper functioning of the electric components and ductwork. If your system has components that need to be replaced, the technician can easily diagnose the issues and repair them.
Why is Regular HVAC Maintenance Important?
Some of the reasons regular maintenance is important are:
- Ensuring the equipment is operating safely
- Catching problems and repairing them sooner rather than later
- Improving system performance
- Keeping system functioning efficiently
- Prolong the life of the system
What are the Benefits of HVAC Maintenance Plans?
Having an HVAC maintenance service plan is preventive because it sets a certain schedule, usually once or twice a year, for a professional service technician to check the system. Let’s look at some of the benefits of HVAC maintenance plans.
Reduced Costs
When your HVAC system is operating efficiently, it uses less energy to heat and cool. An efficient system keeps your costs down because your utility bills are lower. If you are noticing your bills have gotten higher, call for an HVAC appointment. A maintenance plan will save you money on heating or AC repairs and replacement costs.
Fewer System Problems
Having a regular maintenance performed on your HVAC system will result in fewer system problems. The chance of the system breaking down is greatly reduced with regular maintenance because the technician is checking for issues that can turn into future problems.
Longer Life
New HVAC systems are expensive, so prolonging the life of one makes sense. Most systems are designed to last for 10 to 15 years. Having regular maintenance ensures your system works at an optimum and lasts longer.
Accountability
When you have an HVAC maintenance plan for regular service, you get to know the company and its technicians. They become familiar with your units and your home and better understand what it needs for your family to experience maximum indoor comfort. Additionally, they are accountable for the work being performed by providing consistency.
Contact Us for Your HVAC Maintenance and Service
The team at 6 & Fix are professionals who are experienced at servicing and maintaining your HVAC system so that it functions optimally.
