AC and Heating System Maintenance – When and Why?

The Importance of Seasonal HVAC Maintenance

HVAC systems work to achieve and maintain the preferred indoor temperature that you set on your thermostat. However, achieving and maintaining the indoor temperature involves a precise balance between equipment, airflow, and mechanical operations.

Conducting seasonal maintenance on your heating and cooling system may help prevent unexpected breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your unit.¹ Preseason inspections could potentially identify refrigerant leaks, rust, rot, frayed wires, and corroded electrical contacts in your HVAC system. Addressing these problems early may help prevent costly issues leading to equipment failures down the line.

Regular maintenance also helps ensure that your system operates at its designed efficiency level. According to Energy.gov, when you combine proper equipment maintenance with appropriate insulation, air sealing, and thermostat settings, you could cut your energy usage from 20% to 50%.²

When do I Schedule Seasonal Maintenance?

Homeowners should consider scheduling seasonal HVAC maintenance before the peak heating and cooling seasons. HVAC contractors often become extremely busy during the height of summer and winter. Depending on your region, this typically means arranging cooling maintenance in early spring and heating maintenance in early fall.

Many HVAC companies offer preseason specials on maintenance or inspection packages during slower periods. These offers can help you save money on both the initial visit and any additional maintenance work needed.

What Does Seasonal HVAC Maintenance Include?

There is no universal standard for what an HVAC preseason ‘tune-up’ involves, so the specific services provided can vary significantly from one contractor to another. Therefore, it is essential to understand what services are included in your maintenance package and the overall cost, as well as whether it includes all of the system’s manufacturer-recommended maintenance.

Depending on the service agreement or maintenance package offered, your HVAC contractor might perform a comprehensive system inspection, which includes necessary cleaning and inspection of various parts and components. Make sure you know exactly what is included in your seasonal maintenance package.

A professional HVAC contractor’s system maintenance may include, but is not limited to the following:³^, ⁴

1. Verify correct thermostat operation
2. Clean and tighten all electrical connections
3. Inspect electric terminals
4. Lubricate motors
5. Check and inspect the condensate drain
6. Check controls of the system
7. Clean evaporator and condenser coils
8. Check for refrigerant leaks and verify correct charge
9. Clean and adjust blower components
10. Inspect, clean, or replace air filters, as needed
11. Inspect ducts
12. Verify adequate airflow by measurement

Inspect belts for tightness and wear

Ductwork Inspections

Ducts play a crucial role in ducted HVAC systems and should not be overlooked. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the average U.S. home loses 20%-30% of conditioned air due to leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts.⁵ This misdirected airflow can compromise your indoor comfort and increase energy consumption. While ductwork inspections might not be included in a standard seasonal maintenance package, a licensed professional contractor can examine your ducts.

Despite advances in residential air filtration technology over the past decade, dust can still accumulate in your home’s ductwork. If you have concerns about your indoor air quality, dirty ducts may be the source. After inspecting the ductwork, your contractor might recommend cleaning, sealing, or installing specialized indoor air quality accessories.

Don’t wait until your HVAC system breaks down to take action. Schedule your seasonal HVAC maintenance today with your local licensed HVAC contractor to keep your home comfortable and efficient all year round.

1.  _{https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/maintaining-your-air-conditioner}
2. _{https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/why-energy-efficiency-matters}
3. _{https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/heating-cooling/maintenance-checklist}
4. _{https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/operating-and-maintaining-your-heat-pump#:~:text=Inspect%20ducts%2C%20filters%2C%20blower%2C,correct%20refrigerant%20charge%20by%20measurement}
5. _{https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/heating-cooling/duct-sealing}