6 HVAC Maintenance Issues Your Contractor Should Look For

Preventive maintenance is essential for your heating and cooling systems. Most experts advise homeowners to schedule an annual HVAC maintenance visit for the cooling system, and then another for the heating system. Following are six things your contractor should check:

1. Check air ducts leaks The ducts that transport your heated and cooled air throughout the house can eventually become damaged, causing leaks that can result in costly wasted energy. You’re paying to heat and cool air that’s escaping into unconditioned areas. Often blocked by your walls and ceilings, leaky ducts can be difficult to diagnose. An HVAC specialist can inspect and test the ducts and seal them where they’re leaking.
2. Check air filters The air pulled in through your HVAC system passes through a filter that must be periodically changed. A common problem with HVAC air filters is clogging, and a subsequent a buildup of dust and dirt particles. These particles can be circulated through your home, as well as forcing your HVAC system to work harder.
3. Check system for mold Mold and bacteria can collect on equipment components, including the evaporator and condensate pan of your heat pump or A/C. Air vents in bathrooms and basements can collect moisture and become a breeding ground for mold. During preventive maintenance, your technician will be on the lookout for situations where mold is an issue.
4. Inspect, clean and fine-tune your HVAC equipment Just as with any type of machinery, your furnace, heat pump, A/C or boiler needs to be maintained regularly to work at its best. The technician will clean parts, check wiring, inspect venting, and perform other tasks to make sure your equipment is operating properly.
5. Check carbon monoxide detectors Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas, and a leading cause of accidental death in the U.S. During a yearly HVAC maintenance, contractors should check carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working properly.
6. Check/replace thermostat The maintenance technician should check the thermostat to ensure it’s operating properly. A malfunctioning thermostat can cost you money in energy costs and damage the performance of your entire heating and cooling system.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC & plumbing systems). Here at Sobieski Services, we combine our extensive customer service and expertise to service all your HVAC and plumbing needs, including preventive maintenance.

Image Credit: Bev Goodwin