Heating and cooling systems are prone to wear and tear over time and continued use. If you want to maximize its efficiency and extend its lifespan, regular HVAC maintenance such as changing of the filters and replacing worn parts can help you save money too. There are other essential HVAC services your contractor can do, so ask them what these HVAC services are that can be done to ensure your HVAC system will keep on heating cold winter nights and cool down scorching summer days for a long time.

If you fail to do these essential HVAC services in the maintenance of your system, it can lead to your system’s gradual deterioration, inefficiency, and high energy use.

Hire a professional HVAC contractor to conduct yearly pre-season inspections to make sure your HVAC system is ready for the challenge of working nonstop in maintaining home comfort. Homeowners should bear in mind that most HVAC contractors have a full schedule once the heating and cooling season commences, so schedule an AC inspection and maintenance during spring and the fall for your heating system. Take advantage of HVAC companies that offer rebates and packages at a discounted rate if they do maintenance for both your home cooling and heating system. And like any other sensible and practical homeowner, secure at least three quotes and make a comparison before deciding which one to hire.

Licensed and seasoned technicians can identify and repair problems with your HVAC system. But unfortunately, there are countless incompetent and unscrupulous contractors out there. Be very wary since incompetent HVAC technicians won’t be able to give you the right diagnosis and only do band aid solutions. So, learn to recognize which ones to trust and allowed entry into your home. Insist that they do the following HVAC services:

• Make sure to fill-up the right amount of the refrigerant.
• Use a leak detector when checking for refrigerant leaks.
• Get all the refrigerant that needs to be removed from the system, rather than discard it into the atmosphere, which is considered illegal.
• Check a central system’s ductwork and seal any leaks found.
• Measure the air flow through the unit’s evaporator coil.
• Make sure the electric control sequence is right to ensure that your heating and cooling system does not work at the same time.
• Inspect, clean and tighten connections at electrical terminals and put a non-conductive coating when needed.
• Check belts and oil motors for wear and tightness.
• Check your thermostat’s accuracy.
• Lubricate all parts that are moving. If there isn’t sufficient lubrication, it can result in
  friction in motor parts and consume more energy than necessary.
• Inspect your central AC, furnace or heat pump’s condensate drain. Clogs can lead to costly water damage as well as affect the levels of indoor humidity.
• Check system controls to guarantee safe and proper operation. Check the equipment’s starting cycle to make sure that the system starts, works, and shuts off correctly.

Cooling Specific

• Clean your AC’s evaporator and condensing coils. Dirt buildup decreases your system’s efficiency making it run longer, use up more energy and shorten its lifespan.
• Check your AC’s refrigerant level and make adjustments if needed.
• Clean blower compartments and make adjustments to achieve the right system airflow for ultimate home comfort.

Heating Specific

• • Check all the oil and gas connections, burner combustion, gas pressure, and the heat exchanger.

These important HVAC services can help you make the most of your system. After all, you paid thousands in buying one and having it installed. Remember everything that was mentioned above and you’ll be just fine regardless of the changing of the seasons.