You can service some parts of your air conditioner, such as cleaning or replacing filters, cleaning the condenser coils, and checking the thermostat. However, other tasks, like inspecting and cleaning the evaporator coils, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting and sealing ductwork are best left to professionals.
During an HVAC tune-up, your technician will perform the following services: Coolant level and pressure checks. Thermostat calibration. Electrical system inspection and tightening, including wiring, contacts, capacitors, and relays. Evaporator coil and condensate drain cleaning.
Preventive Maintenance Checklist for Your HVAC System
Replace all of your unit's filters. Check the outside unit, clear any debris, and ensure the cabinet door is closed. Check the cabinet for leaks. To ensure proper airflow, clear any clogs in the drain lines.
An HVAC repair pro can recommend services based on your system. HVAC maintenance costs $250 on average, with a range between $100 and $650, depending on the HVAC type, location, and time of year. For a split AC and heating unit, you might spend up to $350 for routine maintenance.
HVAC maintenance plans help protect you from costly HVAC repairs. Benefits of these plans include checkups, seasonal maintenance, and priority service. Disadvantages of this plan include upfront costs and competing warranties.
When it comes to the nitty gritty, cleaning air ducts is not a do-it-yourself job. It requires tools, such as a high-powered vacuum and rotary brushes, that you don't have lying around in the garage. In addition, an improper cleaning job could damage the ducts, resulting in expensive repairs.
Many HVAC companies offer financing to their customers to streamline the HVAC replacement process and paying for it. Banks and credit unions may approve you for a personal loan, home equity line of credit, or a home improvement loan where loan proceeds are used specifically to make the upgrades your home demands.
The HVAC technician inspects all electrical components for wear and tear, including the wiring, capacitors, and contactors. They also check the service valves, access panel, and blower shut off for proper operation. They inspect the suction line insulation and drain pan to prevent leaks or water damage.
Working in the HVAC industry brings a new challenge every day and a new opportunity to work with your hands and solve complex problems. HVAC work requires plenty of technical knowledge and the ability to think critically, be flexible and work independently.
Usually, it is a quick fix, but sometimes the failure can be caused by a much bigger problem. The most expensive part of an AC unit to replace and repair is the air compressor.
While many HVAC maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, it's crucial to schedule regular professional HVAC maintenance. A certified HVAC contractor can perform thorough inspections, identify potential issues, and conduct necessary repairs and system adjustments.
Heating and Air Conditioning equipment, no matter what kind you have, should be inspected, cleaned, and serviced at least once a year. The best scenario is to have the heating system checked in the Fall and the air conditioning checked in the Spring.
He or she will inspect your system for signs of leaks, problems with electrical connections and wiring, and efficient thermostat operation. The winter months require different maintenance options, such as checking the heating elements, the pilot and thermocouple, limit controls, burners and safety controls.
An annual or bi-annual HVAC maintenance appointment generally takes somewhere between 1-2 hours, although this can vary quite a bit depending on several factors. These factors include the type of AC you have, the size of your home, and the amount of time that has passed since your last tune-up.
Generally, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days, or 3 months. That can change based on where your home is located (ex. dusty, dry climates), if you have any pets, and the age of your system and equipment.