You wouldn't think of driving your car around if you didn't get regular maintenance, changing the oil and the oil filter, the air filter and antifreeze, and inspecting the engine for potential problems. Surprisingly, many homeowners overlook scheduling maintenance for what is likely the most expensive and sophisticated equipment in their homes: their HVAC systems. Sure, it's an added expense and for best results, you should schedule it in both spring and fall. The fact is, however, preventive HVAC maintenance is a worthwhile investment when you consider the expense you may be spared down the line.
Why Your System Needs Preventive Maintenance
Your HVAC system works hard, and like any machinery, it occasionally needs some maintenance so it can keep doing the job it's designed for. If you change the air filter regularly, you're actually performing the most important task related to prolonging the life of your equipment and preventing needless repairs. Keeping dust and other particles out of the system by using a good quality air filter and changing it when it's dirty will help the system run more efficiently and with fewer breakdowns. You'll save money on utilities and repairs.
A technician should look at your equipment in the spring and fall and check the following:
- Thermostat settings, to ensure the system is reaching temperature set points.
- Controls, to make sure the system is turning on and off as it should.
- Condensate drain, removing obstructions that might lead to flooding, mold or excess humidity.
- Electrical connections, to replace frayed wires or reconnect loose ones, minimizing the chance of fire.
- Moving parts, particularly in the blower, lubricating as needed to prevent friction.
In the fall, the technician should inspect the furnace burners to ensure they are clean and firing properly, and the heat exchanger for cracks that could leak carbon monoxide. The air conditioner refrigerant level should also be checked in the spring, along with the evaporator and condenser coils.
To learn more about preventive HVAC maintenance and how it can pay off for you, contact Ibbotson Heating & Air Conditioning. We've served the northwest Chicago suburbs since 1946.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Chicago, Illinois about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about preventive maintenance and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 847-603-2233.
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