Warm weather in the area inspired many homeowners to turn on their air conditioning. Most homeowners flip between the heat and AC without much thought. However, the
system must be prepared for the pressure of cooling off the home; turning on the AC without proper maintenance could lead to a damaged and dysfunctional system.
Spring is the time to schedule a service appointment to assess the condition and functionality of your HVAC cooling system. What is involved in a yearly maintenance appointment? Saylors Systems Heating and Air offers a cool and comprehensive HVAC maintenance checklist.
Table of Contents:
The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
The Anatomy of an AC System
Benefits of HVAC Maintenance
A Comprehensive HVAC Maintenance Checklist
The HVAC Maintenance Cost
HVAC Maintenance Improves Energy Efficiency
Summer Energy Efficiency Tips for Homeowners
FAQ
The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
HVAC service appointments ensure that the system works properly; skilled technicians assess the electrical and mechanical components of the system. For air conditioning service appointments, technicians locate the compressor (outside) to determine if this component is clean and functional. Saylors recommends scheduling an air conditioning service appointment in spring before the heat of summer impacts the home.
Technicians also measure the amount of coolant in the system. The type of coolant used in HVAC systems is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Per the Agency, refrigerants used in AC systems cannot harm the ozone layer. The chemical freon was once the most widely used refrigerant for residential heating and cooling systems. Still, because of its deleterious environmental effects, freon is no longer used in modern systems. For those with older systems, the chemical might be difficult to find. The EPA required heating and cooling companies to phase out freon, resulting in depleting supply.
The Anatomy of an AC System
A residential HVAC maintenance system typically comprises a furnace (or heat) and air conditioning (AC). The system uses ductwork throughout the home to move hot and cool air. Returns–or floor vents–serve as a functional and crucial part of the vent system as they aid in the movement and circulation of hot or cold air.
The compressor is responsible for pressing coolant (or refrigerant) to create a hot liquid. The liquid moves through the coils, which are cooled and transferred into cool air. The system pushes out the cold air into the home. The returns capture hot air and start the process all over again.
Benefits of HVAC Maintenance
An HVAC system involves numerous functionalities, and one little glitch leaves the home sweltering. Regular HVAC maintenance allows technicians to check the small issues that could lead to big discomfort during a heat wave.
Low coolant means that the home will not cool efficiently. If the compressor fails or has issues, the system will fail to operate. Even a dirty compressor causes concerns.
HVAC techs for Saylors also remind homeowners about their role in maintaining their systems.
For example, homeowners must remember to change the air filter in their homes at least every three months. Saylors recommends changing filters monthly. Individuals with allergies also might check their filters regularly for dust or debris build-up.
A Comprehensive HVAC Maintenance Checklist
Saylors Systems Heating and Air uses a comprehensive maintenance checklist when assessing your HVAC unit. Our technicians:
Lubricate the system
Test the electrical functionality
Perform thermostat tests
Clean the system, including the outdoor compressor
Test the blower
Check the coolant levels
HVAC Maintenance Improves Energy Efficiency
Yearly maintenance appointments for your air conditioning system benefit your financial bottom line. When the AC system operates correctly and efficiently, cooling costs become more manageable.
A dirty system or a system that is not functioning properly works harder to cool the home, increasing energy usage and monthly utility costs. Homeowners benefit from better energy efficiency and lower operating costs when properly maintaining their AC system.
Summer Energy Efficiency Tips for Homeowners
Hot St. Louis summers put pressure on the AC system. Homeowners can increase the efficiency of their system and keep the home cooler with a few tips. In addition to swapping out dirty air filters, make these changes:
Keep blinds or drapes closed during the heat of the day
Turn the thermostat higher when at work
Use ceiling fans to circulate the air; blades should rotate counterclockwise.
Ditch heat-producing appliances (like the oven)
FAQ
Is HVAC maintenance necessary?
Don’t skip the maintenance appointment. Our technicians assess all aspects of the cooling system, ensuring your AC runs efficiently and provides cooling relief during hot summer days. Pushing back maintenance could lead to more expensive maintenance or mechanical repairs.
What HVAC maintenance should you leave to the professionals?
Homeowners should not do DIY HVAC maintenance. The only regular maintenance responsibility of homeowners involves changing the air filter.
How Often to Schedule Residential HVAC Maintenance
Spring into spring and prepare your AC for the heat of summer. Schedule your AC maintenance today. Remember that spring is for AC maintenance, and fall is for prepping your furnace for the cold winter. Homeowners need two yearly HVAC check-ups; with due diligence, your system will remain in great condition.
How much does HVAC maintenance cost?
Contact Saylors Systems Heating and Air to inquire about the cost of maintenance appointments. If our techs determine that a part must be repaired or replaced or if we recommend any additional maintenance, homeowners will receive a free estimate.
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