Most homeowners have their cooling system tuned-up in the spring, but early summer is not too late to have a professional perform this service before the hottest months of the year. Proper maintenance prevents unexpected breakdowns when your air conditioner is working the hardest. It can also extend the lifetime of your system and reduce monthly cooling costs. Learn the benefits of HVAC maintenance, what it entails, and the role it plays in keeping your home comfortable.
Maintenance Ensures Comfort
Your HVAC system’s primary function is to efficiently cool your home, offering much-needed relief from the heat. A poorly maintained air conditioner may struggle to keep your home comfortable in July and August when temperatures in Richmond can be over 90 degrees. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Energy suggests that a well-maintained central air conditioner can effectively dehumidify a home. Your cooling unit can remove up to 20 gallons of water from indoor air daily. After a visit from an HVAC technician, you will enjoy consistent and reliable cooling and reduced humidity throughout the muggiest days of the summer season.
Prevents Inefficiency
When dirt, dust, and debris accumulate within your HVAC system, they significantly reduce its efficiency in cooling your home. This buildup blocks the smooth flow of air, strains the system’s components, and forces the unit to work harder and consume more energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, proper maintenance can improve HVAC efficiency by up to 15%. A more effective cooling system translates into lower monthly electricity bills.
HVAC Maintenance Improves Indoor Air Quality
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain your HVAC system is through regular filter replacement. Filters trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating in your home. When you schedule maintenance with Davis & Green, air filter replacement is included in the service. During their visit, our technician can also talk to you about installing a whole-home air purification system. They can be integrated into your forced air system and are particularly beneficial if you have household members who suffer from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues.
Prevents Breakdowns and Costly Repairs
One of the main benefits of regular maintenance is the early detection of potential issues. A professional can identify and address small problems before they escalate into major repairs.
Extends the Lifespan of Your HVAC System
HVAC systems are a significant investment, and like any other asset, you want to ensure they last as long as possible. A well-maintained air conditioner can last between 15 and 20 years. Regular maintenance helps preserve the integrity of your air conditioner by keeping it in good working condition. This can add years to its lifespan, saving you from the expense of an early replacement.
Keeps Your Warranty Valid
Most HVAC manufacturers require regular maintenance as part of their warranty terms. Neglecting to maintain your system could void your warranty and leave you with out-of-pocket expenses, such as replacing one of the main components in your cooling system due to a manufacturing defect.
What To Expect During The Maintenance Process
When you schedule a professional HVAC maintenance visit, you can expect a comprehensive inspection and tune-up of your system. Below are some of the key tasks that our technician will perform.
Visual Inspection of the Whole System
Our technician will visually inspect the entire HVAC system, including all components such as coils, fans, motors, ducts, and electrical connections. They will check for any signs of wear and tear, damage, or malfunction that may require further attention.
Removal of Debris
Dirt, dust, and debris don’t just settle in your the filters, but can also accumulate in other areas of your system like the condensing units, the blowers, and the evaporator coils. During maintenance, your technician will thoroughly clean these areas to ensure proper functioning and efficiency. They may also recommend additional cleaning measures such as duct cleaning if needed.
Checking Refrigerant Levels
Another important aspect of HVAC maintenance is checking the refrigerant levels in your system. If there is not enough refrigerant, it can lead to reduced cooling or heating capacity because this substance is responsible for absorbing heat from your home’s air and releasing it outside. If the level is low, they will find the source of the leak and may be able to repair it during their visit. Otherwise, they will advise you on what action needs to be taken.
Lubrication of Moving Parts
Motors, fans, and bearings require proper lubrication to function smoothly and efficiently. During maintenance, our HVAC professional will inspect these parts and apply lubrication as needed. This will help reduce friction and wear, prolonging the lifespan of these components.
Testing Thermostat Functionality
The thermostat is the control center for your HVAC system. It allows you to set and adjust the temperature to your desired comfort level. It also reads the temperature and sends signals to the system to turn on or off accordingly. As such, it must be functioning properly for your system to work efficiently.
Your technician will test the thermostat and recalibrate it if necessary. They may change the battery if needed, as well as check the wiring and connections to ensure everything is in working order.
Inspecting Electrical Connections
Faulty or loose electrical connections can cause a variety of problems in your HVAC system, including power surges, damaged components, and even fire hazards. Our technician will ensure that all electrical connections are tightened and in good condition during maintenance.
Additionally, they may check for any signs of electrical damage or wear and tear, which can be indications of larger issues that need to be addressed. For instance, corrosion on electrical connections can indicate moisture issues in your system, while frayed wires could be a sign of rodent damage.
Checking Condensate Drain
The condensate drain is responsible for removing excess moisture from your system. If it becomes clogged or damaged, it can lead to water leaks and potential damage to your HVAC system.
Our technician will clear any buildup in the drain line and ensure it is functioning properly. If your cooling system has a condensate drain pump, they will ensure it is operating correctly.
Test System Operation
Before leaving, our technician will test the overall operation of the system to ensure everything is working as it should. This may involve running the system through a cooling cycle.
Call Davis & Green for More Information
At Davis & Green, we have been serving the residents of Richmond, VA and the surrounding areas since 1984. We install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. In addition, we provide indoor quality, electrical, and plumbing services. We also invite you to sign up for one of our maintenance agreements. Members receive annual tune-ups for their HVAC systems and free estimates for any repair work that needs to be completed. Contact us today to schedule an AC maintenance appointment with one of our experienced team members.
