An HVAC system is an investment for your home. You rely on yours to keep you comfortable all year round, and you likely don’t think much about it when it’s working as it should.
However, as soon as these appliances conk out, it’s evident how critical they are. Routine maintenance can keep your HVAC system working stronger, longer, and more efficiently. Today, we’re sharing a few reasons why this is a can’t-miss part of responsible home ownership.
1. Save Money Down the Road
Sure, you’ll receive a bill every time you call a preventative maintenance technician to service your HVAC system. However, that invoice will be much smaller than one you might accrue if your machine kicks the dust.
HVAC repair can be a costly business, especially you need to replace a major component, such as your condensing unit. It’s better to be proactive now and take care of any minor issues before they snowball into major ones.
2. Lower Your Energy Bills
Depending on your geographical location, the average HVAC unit runs three to seven months out of the year, for nine hours each day. As it does, it uses between 3,000 and 5,000 watts of power per hour.
If it’s dirty, broken, or damaged in any way, it has to work that much harder. Before long, you’ll notice the difference in your energy bills. A well-maintained unit is an effective one, even if your machines aren’t the modern, energy-efficient type.
In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy explains that even a small fix can make a big difference. Replacing your dirty HVAC filter with a clean one can lower the unit’s energy consumption by up to 15%!
3. Adhere to Your Warranty
Despite your best repair efforts, you may discover that you do need some type of HVAC repair. If this happens, you’ll want to check and see if the unit is still covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. If so, the cost of the fix could be much less.
The only caveat? Most manufacturers will require proof that you’ve professionally maintained your unit before they’ll offer to cover any related expenses. If you skip this step, then your warranty could be null and void.
Paying for a big repair out of pocket can be financially draining. Any time you schedule a technician visit, be sure to keep clear records of the event. Then, store the records somewhere safe and accessible, so you’ll know where to look if you need them in the future.
4. Extend Your Unit’s Lifetime
As long as it’s well-maintained, the average HVAC unit can last anywhere between 10 and 30 years. On average, most will hold on at least 20 years.
To get the maximum return on your investment, it’s important to stick to a routine AC maintenance and repair schedule. In many ways, this is akin to going in for your physical checkup once a year.
At these visits, your doctor can assess your physical health and address anything that’s bothering you. In the same way, a technician can assess the state of your unit and make minor adjustments if there’s anything wrong. This can save you from having to purchase a new HVAC system any time soon!
5. Prevent Damage to Your Home
A damaged HVAC system isn’t just noisy and bothersome. It can also pose a significant safety risk. From fires to frozen pipes, the potential problems are concerning.
Consider, for instance, what would happen if you left your home for a few days during the winter. If your HVAC system was already on the brink, it could stop working altogether during your time away. This can leave the interior of your home unheated, which could lead to frozen pipes.
If those pipes burst, it can cause water damage. Do you see the domino effect?
Whether you’re planning extended vacations or not, this isn’t a liability you want. Before you make those getaway plans, go ahead and search for AC repairman near me and plan a preventative visit.
6. Protect Against Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Did you know that one of the leading causes of carbon monoxide leaks is a failed heat exchanger in your HVAC system? If this component malfunctions, then it could cause the dangerous, odorless gas to enter your home.
This is one of the most important reasons to stay on top of your HVAC maintenance schedule. Even low levels of carbon monoxide exposure can lead to severe health risks. While you should have a carbon monoxide detector in your home to alert you if the gas is present, you can’t rely on it to discover the issue before it occurs.
7. Lower Your Footprint
Nearly 60% of real estate professionals believe that today’s homeowners are interested in sustainability and eco-conscious design features. Does that include you? If so, then a well-running HVAC system should be top of mind.
While these units will consume less energy, they will also require less fuel to operate. This is a small way to help the planet, and cuts down on your overall carbon footprint. Another way you can go a little greener is to understand the type of refrigerant that’s used in your system.
As the EPA phases out traditional refrigerants that have been known to pose health risks, new alternatives are now available. Speak to your technician about making the switch if you haven’t already.
Routine Maintenance Optimizes Your HVAC System
If you’re a homeowner, then you know the importance of maintaining the systems that keep your house going. From your refrigerator to your washer and dryer, there are certain appliances that are critical to your everyday life.
This includes your HVAC system. Regardless of the season, routine maintenance is key to helping yours run longer, work better, and keep your family and property safe. Schedule yours for peace of mind, and cross that item off your to-do list.
In the meantime, we’re here to deliver the trustworthy lifestyle news you need. Check back often for more of our informative guides!
