Preventive HVAC maintenance is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a comfortable home, and doing so with the most efficiency and lowest costs. HVAC systems contain many mechanical, electrical and moving parts that need to work together precisely. With routine maintenance performed both by you and your trusted HVAC professional, your equipment will:
- Use less energy.
- Run more safely.
- Have lower repair costs.
- Last longer.
What’s Involved
- Homeowner maintenance — The best thing you can do for your HVAC system is to check the air filter monthly when it’s running routinely and change it when it’s dirty. A dirty filter contributes to higher energy bills, increased chance of system breakdowns, and a shorter lifetime.
Keeping the outdoor condenser clean and free from dust and debris also improves performance. If you use a heat pump for wintertime heating, it’s important to maintain the condenser throughout the year.
- Professional maintenance — When HVAC professionals perform preventive HVAC maintenance, they clean, lubricate and adjust all the system’s components to bring the equipment back to its original condition as much as possible. They spot small problems that could develop into serious issues if left unattended, which saves money on repair costs and part replacements.
Checking the refrigerant level is particularly important for a heat pump, since low refrigerant increases energy costs and taxes the vital parts of the system. If you have a gas furnace, they’ll also inspect the gas lines, venting, and the quality of the flame inside the burner. They’ll make adjustments to the gas to air ratio, which helps the furnace burn fuel efficiently and safely.
If your system has a warranty, the underwriter may require proof of professional maintenance to keep the coverage active, especially if the mechanical failure is largely preventable through regular cleaning, adjustments and filter changes.
When you want the most from your HVAC equipment, it’s essential to perform filter changes and regular cleaning. Preventive HVAC maintenance from a licensed contractor pays off lower operating costs and an increased lifespan. For more information, contact Roth Heating & Cooling, providing trusted HVAC services for Portland-area homeowners.
