The Importance of HVAC System Maintenance Checks

The term “HVAC system” refers to the heating, cooling, and ventilation appliances that keep your home at a comfortable temperature, year-round. In the Loveland area, this is often via ductwork and a forced air/central air system. Maintaining your HVAC system allows you to avoid unnecessary repairs, enjoy a system that’s working efficiently, and live more comfortably.

How Long Do HVAC Systems Last?

In our four season state Colorado, we rely on the full force of our furnaces and central air conditioners to stay comfortable, year-round. No one wants to be caught without cooling on a hot August day or come home to freezing pipes after a weekend on the slopes.

HVAC systems last anywhere from 10-25 years, on average. However, there are a variety of factors that may impact the lifespan of the HVAC solutions in your home. These include the quality of the unit, the configuration of the system, and the frequency of maintenance.

The best way to increase the useful lifespan of your HVAC system is to have it professionally maintained on a regular schedule. We recommend twice-a-year tune-ups in the spring and fall, to prepare for the most severe temperatures in winter and summer.

How to Maintain Your HVAC System

HVAC system maintenance falls into two categories:

  1. Things a property owner can and should do on their own.

  2. Tasks best left to the professionals.

 

DIY or Property Owner Tasks

Maintain your HVAC system in between professional maintenance appointments by:

  • Keeping exterior system components clean and clear of plants, leaves, and grass clippings.

  • Leaving adequate space around interior registers and return vents.

  • Checking the air conditioning unit for water leaks—these could come from the unit itself or the condensate system.

  • Replacing the HVAC filter at least every 90 days.

  • Testing and replacing the batteries in your property’s carbon monoxide (CO) detectors according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  • Looking for signs of mold or pest infestation in your vents or interior units. You don’t want spores or animal dropping blowing through your home.

The Jobs You Should Leave in Professional Hands

The goal of a professional HVAC system maintenance appointment is to ensure all things HVAC are working as intended, to maintain and extend the life of the unit(s), and to identify potential concerns before the system fails.

The exact procedure for inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining your appliances will depend on the make and model of your air conditioner, heater, furnace, or another system.

In general, you can count on your technician to:

  1. Inspect the full system. An HVAC system is comprised of multiple units. Most north-central Colorado homes are equipped with either a central HVAC or heat pump system. Your technician will identify and inspect your unit(s). This will include your heater, air conditioner, and ductwork.

  2. Clean the unit and inspect the internal components of both your air conditioner and furnace or heat pump. This may include cleaning internal coils and lubricating parts, tightening connections, adjusting fans or belts, and more.

  3. Make a recommendation for replacement parts and adjustments. Most of the time, these items can be addressed during the same appointment.

  4. Review the system controls to ensure the unit functions as expected. This includes testing the thermostat for connection and accuracy.

 

A Clean HVAC System is a Happy HVAC System

Over time, as particulate builds up inside your unit, you may notice that it becomes less efficient. Left unchecked, dirt and dust can cause your unit to work harder for the same results.

Dust and debris can also impact the air quality inside your home. In addition to replacing your system’s air filter regularly, your technician may recommend further service, including air duct cleaning, to improve the indoor air quality of your property.

How Will I Know When to Replace My HVAC System?

During a regular maintenance appointment, your technician will report on the performance of your unit(s). We recommend a replacement for units that are approaching or have outrun their expected lifespan, are facing a costly repair, or are significantly less efficient than they used to be.

Maintain Your Loveland HVAC System with Help from the Pros

Some regular maintenance from you and your favorite HVAC pros can help keep your system running smoothly for years to come. Rely on One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning of Loveland to assist in maintaining your home’s heating and cooling systems. Our HVAC experts have experience maintaining all systems, makes, and models. Call (970) 822-0413 today to get started.