Is Your HVAC System Ready For Winter?

December 3rd, 2013 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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With colder months ahead, now is the time to make sure that your HVAC system is ready to keep you warm and cozy through the winter. Even newer HVAC systems need regular maintenance to keep them running efficiently. Nobody wants their heating system tofail in the middle of a cold snap; not only is it inconvenient, it is also when HVAC technicians are the busiest and may not be able to quickly get out to fix your problem. Like most mechanical systems, preventative maintenance can save you money and time by fixing issues before they become expensive problems. 

Winter Maintenance Items

There are a few items on your HVAC system that should be checked or replaced before the coldest months of the year are upon you. Some you may be able to do yourself, however regular annual residential HVAC maintenance should be performed by a professional. 

  • Filters. Many filters on HVAC systems need to be cleaned or replaced monthly, or every three months at maximum. Before the cold sets in, make sure your filters are clean and ready for duty.
     
  • Thermostat. One of the most common problems in a heating unit is the failure of the thermostat. While HVAC systems can last decades, the thermostats often need replacing more often.
     
  • Duct cleaning. Through the year, dust and bacteria can build up in your air ducts. Before blowing these contaminants around your home, have your ducts cleaned for a healthy winter. 

Not only can maintenance prevent breakdowns, it can also save on energy bills. By having your HVAC cleaned and maintained before the winter months, it should run more efficiently and be ready to handle your heating needs until spring arrives.

Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC

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The Best Times of Year For A Heating & Air-Conditioning System Check

October 9th, 2013 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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The efficient performance of your heating and air-conditioning system requires preventative maintenance.

Systems that are poorly maintained almost always increase your energy costs, expenses, and the chance of premature system failure. Furthermore, regular residential HVAC maintenance  is less expensive than repair and replacement costs.

It’s excellent practice to have your residential heating and air-conditioning system serviced each year. And as a rule, it’s best to schedule your annual system’s check before you need to use it. Typically, spring or fall seasons are ideal because once the winter (heating) and summer (cooling) seasons are in full force, service professionals are quite busy. Therefore, to save yourself the hassle and time, schedule your check before everyone does.

An easy and helpful way to remember when to schedule preventative maintenance each year is by planning to have it done with the time changes.

  • Spring check-ups will be scheduled when you set the clock forward.
  • Fall check-ups will be scheduled when you set the clock back.

Here’s an excellent checklist for preventative maintenance:

  • Controls and thermostat settings should be checked to ensure proper and efficient functioning.
  • Drains should be inspected for and cleared of any blockages.
  • All moving parts should be lubricated to ensure efficient running of the motor.
  • Coils, burners, and blower components should be cleaned. Any damaged equipment needs to be repaired or replaced.
  • Air conditioning should be checked for proper levels of refrigerant.
  • Ensure duct work is inspected for damage.

Lastly, it’s important to do your part by cleaning or changing your filters every month.

Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC

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Fall Heating and Cooling Service

September 21st, 2012 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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Fall is almost here and now is a great time to have your heating system serviced by a good HVAC technician to get it ready for winter.  Your HVAC system needs regular maintenance for best performance and the experts recommend having your system serviced twice a year to keep it operating efficiently and to maximize its service life.

You probably haven’t given much thought to your furnace since last spring.  Your HVAC technician will re-light your pilot light if necessary and start your system to ensure that it comes on line and operates normally. He or she will also inspect and replace the filter if necessary, check the burners and heat exchangers for cracks, corrosion and wear, check electrical connections, and ensure that your thermostat is operating properly.  In a gas furnace, a cracked heat exchanger is a serious problem because it can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you have a heat pump or a central air conditioning system, the system pressure will be checked and the refrigerant topped up if necessary.  The evaporator and condenser coils will be cleaned the heat pump will be run in heat mode to make sure the reversing valve works properly.

During the heating season, be sure to check and change your furnace or heat pump filters regularly.  Once a month is usually sufficient unless you have a lot of pets or live in a dusty environment.  Clogged air filters make the system work harder to heat and cool your home.  This not only wastes energy, but it’s also hard on your heating and cooling equipment.  Inexpensive pleated filters will protect your system better than standard fiberglass filters while allowing plenty of air flow.

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