During home inspections we are regularly asked, How often should I schedule HVAC maintenance?
All too often maintenance for your a/c or heating system is easily looked over. Unless something is not working with either your a/c or heating system (such as a breakdown) you may be tempted to put off calling a maintenance professional, especially if everything worked “OK” last season. Just like maintenance for your vehicle, regular HVAC servicing is equally valuable, for breakdown prevention and optimum performance.
So, What does HVAC maintenance entail? This service is provided by most HVAC contractors who will look over items such as the furnace, boiler, heat exchanger, blower, a/c coil, a/c refrigerant pressures, signs of leaks, exhaust venting, condensation drainage, and ductwork. This should also involve testing, cleaning, and adjusting the cooling or heating equipment depending on the time of year. This level of service is above the typical homeowner items like changing your air filter or ensuring the outside a/c unit is clean and free of vegetation.
When should I have a serving done? It’s always better to arrange for service before the peak season and well before you need your system the most. The best time to schedule servicing your heating system will be in the fall. For your air conditioner, spring is typically the best time. It’s during these times that HVAC technicians will be less likely to be busy with emergency calls, so you can schedule timely maintenance.
How often should my equipment be checked? Your HVAC systems should be checked by a professional on a yearly service plan. So if you have a central air conditioner, boiler, or furnace, your NJ Home Inspector recommends these systems be maintained once a year.
Why should I have my HVAC equipment serviced The main reason to schedule your annual HVAC service is for your comfort and peace of mind. Just like a properly maintained car, a tuned HVAC system will operate at peak performance, reduce wasted energy, extend the life of the equipment and reduce the likelihood of untimely breakdowns. The most important factor is the safety of the system. This is applicable with all gas-fired heat systems such as boilers and furnaces. A compromised or fractured heat exchanger can lead to dangerous conditions such as carbon monoxide poisoning or even fire hazards. We cannot stress the importance of regular HVAC maintenance and how it can help provide “Peace of MInd”
20/20 home inspection of NJ will operate and look over installed HVAC equipment during your home inspection and report on items not operating so you can make an informed purchase decision. Call us today to schedule a home inspection in NJ TEL: 732-948-8610
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