In this blog post, we at JC’s Heating and Air want to share our Ultimate HVAC Preventive Maintenance Checklist with you, our loyal customers, friends, and family in Knoxville, TN.
You want to get your money’s worth, especially when it comes to your HVAC equipment, such as heat pumps and air conditioners, that contribute to your comfort. But getting quality equipment and securing professional installation are not the only factors to ensuring you maximize your purchase. You’ll also want to follow an HVAC preventive maintenance checklist that’s going to keep your heating and cooling system efficient and durable for many years to come.
HVAC Maintenance plans differ depending on your preferred schedule. You can choose quarterly services or take the more popular bi-annual option every spring and fall. Either way, our Ultimate HVAC Preventive Maintenance checklist will be useful in determining the most important aspects of preventive maintenance for all HVAC systems.
The Ultimate HVAC Preventative Maintenance Checklist: What You Need to Look Out For
Air conditioners and heat pumps are meant to receive regular attention. Otherwise, they break down or deteriorate.
The most prevalent system issues include clogged filters, leaking refrigerants, blown fuses, thermostat malfunctions, and unbalanced airflow. Neglected air conditioners and heat pumps are also subject to unpleasant odors, unusual noises, and a rise in heating and cooling costs.
Prevent these things from happening by implementing an HVAC preventive maintenance plan that covers year-round concerns as well as the unique concerns your system faces during different seasons.
Spring and Summer Maintenance Tasks
As the sun starts to peek out and the temperature goes higher, you’ll want to turn up the AC unit to stay cool. When you don’t take care of your HVAC system, however, it may result in higher electricity bills or expensive repair costs.
Beat the summer heat by having a qualified HVAC professional clear the following tasks:
- Clean or replace the filters of cooling equipment.
- Clean drain lines to prevent clogs and overflows.
- Clean the a/c condenser and evaporator coils.
- Clear the ducts of debris, dust, and molds.
- Check refrigerants charge and observe leaks.
- Check the electrical system and fan motors.
- Observe blowers and blades for proper airflow.
- Adjust alignment of or replace pulleys and belts.
- Lubricate motor bearings and other moving parts.
- Test thermostats, controls, and timer functions.
- Check cabinet for leaks and cabinet door for secure closure.
Your HVAC maintenance service provider also observes humidity levels to ensure consistent airflow.
Fall and Winter Maintenance Tasks
Your HVAC system can stand its ground against snow, sleet, and rain. But this doesn’t mean that you can leave it alone unless you hear some rattling, notice a leak, or feel more chilly than usual.
Keep yourself warm during winter by having a skilled HVAC professional do the following:
- Clean or replace filters of the heating equipment.
- Clean drain lines and pans to avoid leaks.
- Check duct works and vents for proper air flow.
- Check the pulleys and belts. Replace if necessary.
- Check thermostats, controls, and electrical connections.
- Make sure the flue system is securely attached to furnace.
- Make sure there isn’t gas leaking from the gas furnace.
- Examine heat exchanger or other heating factors.
- Inspect fans and blowers for proper ventilation.
- Inspect heat pumps and ignition burners.
- Check gas pressure in the furnace.
- Test and lubricate motor bearings.
By securing these tasks, you avoid having a furnace breakdown when temperatures dip.
A comprehensive plan gives you the comfort of knowing that you’ve taken all probable steps to prevent something from going wrong with your AC or heater. Set aside a budget for preventive maintenance of your HVAC system. The money you spend now is a small price to pay for long-term comfort and cost savings.
A Small Price to Pay: Why Preventive Maintenance is Essential
Some people are hesitant to sign an HVAC preventive maintenance contract because they assume that it’s more expensive than occasional air duct cleaning and emergency repairs. But you could save more because maintenance plans often have discounts and warranties for services.
Looking beyond the initial benefits of an HVAC maintenance plan, the overall cost is a small price to pay for cleaner air and a more comfortable home.
Take a closer look at why maintaining an HVAC preventive maintenance checklist is a worthwhile investment:
- Save money on HVAC repairs and energy bills.
Preventive maintenance means there are fewer chances of HVAC system breakdowns. It extends the life of your entire system. It also extends warranty, so you can save a significant amount if your system experiences problems. Moreover, because your system continues to run at its peak efficiency, you can save money on your energy bills.
- Reduce indoor levels of airborne pollutants.
You won’t always immediately feel the effects of indoor air pollutants. Some immediate effects include dizziness, headaches, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Potential long-term effects include respiratory diseases and heart disease. Eliminate allergens, like pet dander, dust mites, and molds by keeping your HVAC unit clean.
- Keep your home comfortable all year round.
Your HVAC system keeps you cool during summer and warm during winter. It contributes a lot to indoor comfort, but it’s also easy to take for granted. Look after your system so that you remain comfortable all year round. Regular maintenance lets your system consistently distribute cool or warm air. It minimizes those pesky HVAC noises, too.
- Reduce the risk of carbon monoxide leaks.
What you can’t see may hurt you. Exposure to the colorless, odorless gas leads to headaches, dizziness, vomiting, chest pain, and other flu-like symptoms. Strong exposure can lead to fainting, or worse. Regular maintenance of heating appliances prevents leaks that result in serious health issues.
- Minimize your HVAC’s environmental impact.
If you’re looking for ways to lessen your environmental impact, keep in mind that a well-maintained HVAC system uses considerably less energy. Some modifications also let you switch from oil heat to natural gas. Alternatively, newer models use less electricity. Talk to a qualified HVAC professional about your most suitable option.
Efficient HVAC Systems Save You Money
Our extensive preventive maintenance plan will help the HVAC system in your home or business work without fail — no matter the season. Keep your system efficient today and save money on future repairs. I hope that our Ultimate HVAC Preventive Maintenance Checklist will help you keep your home heating and cooling system running at its best year-round. Please refer back to this checklist often and share it with your friends and family.
Call us for your year-round HVAC preventive maintenance needs: +865-388-1712.
