Why Preventive HVAC Maintenance is a Beneficial Investment

February 2, 2016

Preventive HVAC maintenance does require a small investment, but it's one that will pay you back in the short and long runs. All mechanical systems experience wear and tear through usage, and your HVAC system is one of the hardest-working appliances inside your home. Staying on top of maintenance saves energy, reduces the likelihood of breakdowns, extends the life of the system and increases safety. Maintaining your system involves:

• Changing the air filter. When your system is running routinely, check the condition of the filter monthly and replace it when it's dirty. The air filter keeps the dust and dirt out of your equipment and prevents premature part failure.
• Keeping the outdoor condenser clean. Unless you use a heat pump for home heating, you won't need to tend to the condenser in the winter, but before turning on the A/C, clear away any landscaping debris and clean the coil inside the condenser. If you use a heat pump, keep snow away from the condenser for the most efficient operation.
• Scheduling maintenance. It's especially important to have an HVAC professional perform preventive HVAC maintenance for your heating system every heating season. Most homes in the Des Moines area use gas for heating, and these systems need to be carefully calibrated and cleaned once a year to enhance safety. Although natural gas is a clean fuel, over time, carbon deposits can form inside the burner, on the pilot or ignitor, all of which reduce efficiency. The technician will clean the parts including the electrical components, inspect the flue and the safety switches inside the furnace, and lubricate the motor. He or she will evaluate the airflow through the blower compartment and look for any signs of ductwork leakage. A system check for heat pumps and central air conditioners involves measuring the refrigerant and adjusting it if necessary.

You can expect to recoup your investment in preventive HVAC maintenance through reduced energy consumption and repair or replacement costs, along with increased safety. Contact Lozier Heating & Cooling today, providing top-notch HVAC services for Des Moines area homeowners, to learn more. Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Des Moines, Iowa area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: "Tashatuvango/Shutterstock"