Annual HVAC Maintenance Guidelines
As soon as the air gets colder, you know it’s time to winterize your residence for the cooler months ahead. Your heating system is crucial to maintaining a cozy, warm environment. A well-maintained furnace delivers the comfort you want while using a reduced amount of energy. Routine inspections also make your system less likely to break down and help lengthen its service life. These are just a few examples of how annual HVAC maintenance can save you time, money and hassle. Here’s what needs to be on your checklist before winter happens.
Schedule HVAC Maintenance
To keep your home heating system in optimum condition, consider arranging furnace maintenance once a year. The ideal time for this is in the fall before contractors become flooded with calls during the busy winter season. But, if you miss that window on the calendar, it’s still beneficial to get furnace maintenance no matter what the season.
Your heating and cooling professional’s HVAC maintenance list should feature the following:
- Check the thermostat settings: We all desire an efficient HVAC system, and this starts with your thermostat. During a maintenance check, the specialist ensures your thermostat is reading the temperature correctly and engaging your furnace at the proper times.
- Tighten the electrical connections: Verifying that all electrical connections are secure is vital. Loose wires can result in a higher electricity draw, potentially decreasing the life of your system’s components and resulting in a safety risk.
- Measure the motor voltage and current: This step allows a contractor to decide if the motor is working within the desired parameters, helping to prevent motor failure and unnecessary energy consumption.
- Lubricate moving components: Friction reduces energy efficiency. Your expert lubricates all moving parts to lower resistance, reduce wear and tear, and lower your energy bills.
- Examine the condensate drain: AC units, condensing furnaces and whole-house humidifiers send condensate down a drain as they operate. This line should be clear of obstructions to avoid water accumulation and potential water damage. Looking over the drain provides peace of mind that your utility closet won’t flood.
- Check the system controls: This involves ensuring the furnace starts, runs and powers off according to the manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring safety and security.
- Scrutinize the ignition burner assembly: This feature is responsible for igniting the burner. A tech inspects the assembly to ensure it’s clean and operating properly.
- Examine the heat exchanger: The heat exchanger transfers heat from the fuel to your residence’s air. A crack could introduce carbon monoxide into your home, so detailed examination is an important step on the HVAC maintenance appointment.
- Clean the burners: Over time, burners can get covered in dust and debris that impedes performance. A thorough cleaning assures they operate efficiently and safely.
- Look for gas leaks: Monitoring for leaks is vital with gas heating systems. A leak can be deadly and should be addressed ASAP.
- Evaluate the gas pressure: Ideal gas pressure is required for optimal furnace performance. Pressure that’s too low or too high can upset system efficiency and the warmth in your home.
DIY HVAC Maintenance
Here’s how to keep your furnace running smoothly between professional HVAC maintenance appointments:
- Install a clean air filter: A clogged filter can strain your furnace. Check the filter each month and replace it when it appears dirty to promote efficiency and extend your system’s life span.
- Look at your thermostat settings: The Department of Energy (DOE) recommends setting your thermostat between 68 and 70 degrees when you’re inside the home and awake in the winter. Then, set the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees while you’re not home or sleeping at night to save up to 10% on your heating expenses.
- Clean the air registers: Dust buildup can restrict airflow, so vacuum the grilles regularly to promote good air quality. Next, make sure furniture, rugs and curtains don’t cover your return or supply vents to ensure appropriate system balance.
- Reverse the ceiling fan: Set your ceiling fans to spin clockwise during the colder months to force warm air down from the ceiling to where you will enjoy it.
- Seal drafts: Look for leaky windows and doors. If you find drafts, seal them with caulk and weatherstripping to keep the cold air out and reduce your furnace’s workload.
- Evaluate your attic insulation level: An insufficient insulation level in your home’s attic leads to heat loss. Add insulation if it’s needed to keep heat indoors and lower your energy expenses.
Choose Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for HVAC Maintenance in Fort Lauderdale
Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is happy to take care of your home heating and cooling needs. We give you peace of mind with our comprehensive HVAC inspections, quick solutions and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Our ACE-certified technicians strive to go above and beyond. You can rely on Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to make a significant difference in your comfort and home enjoyment this winter with furnace maintenance in Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Reach out to us at 954-736-4314 today for help {fortifying your home against|getting your home ready for|preparing your residen