Preventive maintenance is one of the most critical tasks on the HVAC system in your Vernon Hills, Illinois, home. Over time, the components within the heating and cooling system will start to wear out and break down, leading to reduced efficiency and damage to the unit. By keeping up with regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your HVAC system while enjoying a number of other benefits.
Heating System Maintenance
Before the coldest months of the year are upon us, it’s smart to bring in an HVAC technician to perform annual maintenance on the heating system. Completing the maintenance before you start relying on your heating system can help you avoid unpleasant surprises, such as turning the system to the heat setting, only to find that something isn’t working properly. During the maintenance, your technician will check the furnace filter and replace it if needed, as well as inspect the heating system for any signs of wear.
From there, the technician will open up the furnace to perform some light cleaning and inspect for any signs of damage. The interior components that the technician will inspect include the pressure switches, motors, ignition assembly, and blower. The technician will test the energy usage and determine whether the system is operating efficiently, as well as perform a thorough test of the heating system to make sure air is flowing properly. The thermostat will be tested and calibrated. Another important safety step in the maintenance service involves testing for carbon monoxide leaks, which can be fatal.
Cooling System Maintenance
Maintenance on your cooling system should happen before the temperatures get too warm or the humidity levels rise too high. During this service, the HVAC technician will perform similar tasks to those done during heating maintenance, only he will focus on your air conditioner. Since a cooling system has an outdoor unit, the technician may spend more time outside to make sure there are no coolant leaks or damage to that part of the system.
Other tasks include checking the belts, motors, and other parts, testing the safety controls, drain line, and condensate pump, and making sure all electrical connections are operating correctly. All caps and valves on the various components of the system will be tested for safety and security. Finally, the technician should run the system for a few minutes at different temperature settings to make sure it’s providing adequate cooling throughout the home.
Benefits of Routine Maintenance
You may wonder if routine HVAC maintenance is worth the cost. Between the cost and the time associated with the service, it’s something that many homeowners overlook or skip. However, maintenance is one of the best ways to provide proper care for your system. It also comes with a number of benefits. You can enjoy more efficient heating and cooling throughout the changing seasons, which translates to a more comfortable atmosphere in your home.
Additionally, your technician can spot any areas of concern early and repair them right away. By fixing issues right away, your system will operate more efficiently and have an increased lifespan. Routine maintenance can also reduce the need for expensive repairs. When it’s cold or hot outside, the last thing you want to deal with is a heating or cooling system that isn’t working correctly. By keeping up with maintenance, you will also reduce the risk of dealing with a catastrophic breakdown.
Save Energy and Money
It might seem counterintuitive that a service that comes with a cost will help you save money, but that is definitely the case when it comes to HVAC maintenance. Routine maintenance can extend the life of your heating and cooling system, which means you don’t have to worry about saving up for a new unit as soon. Your equipment will also operate more efficiently, so you’ll likely spot a difference in your monthly bills. A neglected system will quickly get dirty and worn out, resulting in poor efficiency and more expensive operation.
Take advantage of the benefits and schedule maintenance of your heating and cooling system by calling us at Ireland Heating & Air at 847-388-0108.
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