When the weather gets unbearable, you may turn on your HVAC system to regulate the indoor temperature. Each year you use your HVAC unit it gradually becomes inefficient due to natural wear and tear. Dirty filters can also contribute to your unit becoming inefficient. Regular maintenance is the only way you can prolong the life of your system.
Yet, you may be one of many people who overlook HVAC maintenance. You may think you only need to service your unit when it breaks down or when you realize your unit isn’t producing your desired temperatures. However, even when you don’t suspect any problem with your heating or cooling unit, it would be best to have it serviced at least once a year. Servicing helps to ensure that your unit operates at the peak of its efficiency to cool or heat your house whenever you demand it.
Still, there comes a time when servicing your heating or cooling unit once a year isn’t enough to keep it running optimally. Hence, you might need to plan for tune-ups at least twice each year. Here are various indications that your system requires maintenance.
1. It’s Been Over 12 Months Since the Last Tune-up
You should have your HVAC unit checked by a professional at least once a year. If your HVAC unit received servicing over a year ago or if you can’t remember when you last had it serviced, you should schedule it for service as soon as possible. You might think that skipping maintenance visits will save you money. However, if you avoid having your unit checked every so often, you might need to pay for expensive repairs in the future.
Make sure to schedule your unit maintenance sessions based upon how often you use it. For instance, if you use the air conditioner daily throughout the year, you should have it serviced every six months. Spring and fall are the best times to request HVAC inspection and maintenance services because most HVAC specialists are less likely to be busy with emergency calls.
To ensure that your system functions optimally, you need to do some simple maintenance yourself in between the annual tune-up visits. Make sure to change your air filters every three months. However, if you have pets, you should consider changing them each month. If you live in dusty regions, check the filters often, and always change them if they seem clogged or dirty.
Aside from changing the filter, you should periodically inspect the outdoor unit and keep the surrounding areas free from debris, leaves, or sticks. Also, turn off the thermostat when you are out of the house to reduce your unit’s load and keep indoor vents free from any obstructions.
2. When You Notice an Unexplained Spike in Utility Bills
It’s common to see an increase in energy consumption, mostly at the peak of summer or in the middle of the winter season. However, if your unit operates well in one season but you notice a higher-than-expected increase in electric bills in the next season, you need to have it assessed by a professional. Having your unit accessed is crucial if it has a longer run time or cycles more often than it did when it was new.
Another reason for increased electrical consumption leading to higher electrical bills could be contributed to having leaky ductwork or a broken thermostat switch. To delve deeper into why your unit is consuming more electricity, you should set up a service appointment.
3. If There Is Limited or No Air Flow
If you cannot feel any air coming out of the air conditioner vents or if you receive minimal airflow, your house won’t cool or heat properly. This is an obvious sign that you need to have your unit serviced. Although poor airflow can be a result of dirty air filters, it could also be due to a bad blower motor, faulty furnace control boards, or the compressor. Always seek a professional to make equipment repairs.
4. Unusual Noises Coming From Your System
If you notice any unfamiliar sounds coming from your HVAC unit, call in a professional for maintenance as soon as possible. If you hear clicking sounds from the outdoor unit as your system runs, there might be an obstruction. Banging sounds can indicate the presence of a larger obstruction or a loose fan. On the other hand, if you notice bubbling noises, there is a problem with the condensate drain or there could be a refrigerant leak.
Squealing sounds from your unit could indicate that there is a problem with the fan belt. And if you hear hissing sounds from the compressor, it’s an indication that there is a high-pressure build-up in your HVAC unit. It’s better to have these noises looked into and fixed as soon as possible before they escalate to larger issues.
5. If You Have an Older Unit
Older HVAC systems are less efficient compared to newer models. Hence, aging systems require more regular maintenance than their more recent counterparts. Though the lifespan of HVAC units differs based upon usage and the model, proper servicing will help slows the natural wear and tear process and help prevent frustrating breakdowns.
6. Unpleasant Odors Coming From the Unit
If you notice unusual smells coming from your unit, it’s a definite sign that your HVAC system needs maintenance. The unusual smell could be an indication of pest infestation, mold, or electrical issues. In case of such odors, call in a professional to diagnose the cause.
7. When You Experience Multiple Repairs
If you notice that you have had to repair various components of your unit within a short period, you may want to consider a new unit. Typically, an HVAC unit won’t breakdown at once but will begin to fail gradually. This may be a time when you want to seek the advice of a professional.
A technician will assess your entire unit and recommend whether it needs a simple fix or if you should invest in a new unit. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice on the best course of action to take to save you the most money.
Wrapping Up
Conducting HVAC preventive maintenance helps ensure your unit will properly distribute warm and cold air evenly to prevent mid-season breakdowns. Maintenance reduces the chances of unpleasant smells or noises developing that can disrupt your quality of life. Also, frequent maintenance prevents expensive repairs, lowers utility bills, and prolongs the life of your unit.
Although there are some preventive measures that you can take to protect your unit, you should have it checked by a professional routinely. Experienced technicians have the knowledge to pinpoint some hidden issues within your unit to keep it running optimally.
We are a reliable company dealing with heating systems and AC installations, repair, and maintenance services. We also offer duct repair, cleaning, and other air quality services in San Antonio and the surrounding areas. Call Beyer Air Conditioning and Heating today to book an appointment and enjoy our high-quality services.
