When the heat of summer is in full force, one thing we may take for granted is coming home to a nice, cool living space to relax in. The minute the air conditioner stops working, the first thing you’ll want to do is get it back up and running. Calling your HVAC pro is the best way to get to the bottom of the issue and get back to your comfortable lifestyle. No matter if it’s the heat of summer of the dead of winter, proper maintenance throughout the year can reduce the element of a surprise furnace or air conditioner break down. Here’s why proper maintenance can ensure your heating and cooling system is working its best all year.
Upgrading to an Energy-Efficient Model
If you’ve had your HVAC repairman out several times over the course of the last few years for repairs, maybe it’s time to check into a new model. While getting your HVAC system checked throughout the year can detect many issues early on, after a while the new parts are just not compatible with the older model. Asking a heating and cooling technician at One Hour Heating & Air, or through a local company near you about an upgrade can benefit you more than just by saving some money. You can choose a model that is eco-friendly and helps reduce your carbon footprint on the environment. Many models can connect to solar panels that produce hot water heat throughout the home. You can also choose geothermal models as well as ductless air conditioners that are both energy efficient and can accommodate the needs of your home. Connecting your HVAC system to a smart hub can help with home efficiency. Control your thermostat remotely and regulate temps while you’re away.
Saves Money on after-hour Emergency Calls
When your heating and cooling pro recommends a return visit in six months, there’s a good reason why. While you may not feel like you need it, a routine checkup on your furnace and air conditioner can be a key preventer for future breakdowns. This is because any electrical items that aren’t firing properly or belts that are wearing thin can be easily detected by most professionals. Your HVAC pro will change the parts out right away and make the repairs to help prevent a future breakdown. Most of these parts are under warranty as well, this means, should they break down at any given time, you won’t have to pay to replace them. Letting minor noises and malfunctions go to the wayside now can cost you hundreds of dollars in extra fees when you have to pay for after-hours maintenance.
Lowering Heating and Cooling Bills
Routine maintenance and upkeep of your furnace and central air unit can also help you save money on your annual utility bills. Ask your HVAC pro about a home energy audit check. This starts with running your furnace and checking the temperatures throughout the home. Any areas that are slow to heat or cool down properly could indicate loss of air flow. From there, it may be recommended that you replace worn out insulation in your walls and flooring and also create airtight gaps between windows and doors. Small cracks and gaps can cause air leaks and trigger your monthly utility bills to skyrocket. Replacing the air filter and thermostat are other recommendations that your HVAC pro may use to help your home become more energy efficient.
Clearing the Air
Inside your home’s ductwork lies a cluster of pet dander, dust mites, pollen and other contaminants that can trigger allergies and mold growth throughout your home. Once they hit the air, you and your family will breathe it all in. When is the last time you really cleaned your home’s furnace and air returns? Even if you gave them a good vacuuming and scrubbing, there are still areas that likely didn’t get touched. These nooks and crannies are down deep within your home’s ductwork. Hiring someone to come out, remove all of the dirt and debris and then apply an antibacterial cleaner can help improve air quality in your home. Not only that, your furnace will work better and run more efficiently, reducing wear and tear on internal parts and cutting back on fuel and electrical usage.
Creating a healthy, thriving and comfortable space for your family starts with a solid-working HVAC system. Call your local pro today for advice on how to improve your system and have it working its best.