The Short Answer Is: Homeowners should schedule HVAC maintenance at least once a year.
Ultimately, the decision on whether — or how often — to have your unit inspected is up to the homeowner. Experts say that even small tweaks to an air conditioner can increase efficiency by 10 to 15 percent. Skipping an inspection may mean higher utility bills. And on the heating side, a checkup could save your life.
Ignoring regular maintenance could lead to several problems such as reduced energy efficiency, higher utility bills, poor indoor air quality, equipment breakdowns and more – disturbing the comfort of your home.
Taking Care of the HVAC System That Takes Care of You
Getting on a preventative maintenance program provides many advantages, including: Preventing costly breakdowns. When an HVAC system component fails, replacement and repair costs can be significant.
You should schedule an air conditioner tune up at least once a year. Ideally, schedule a professional tune-up in the spring before the peak cooling season begins. Regular maintenance helps ensure AC system efficiency, longevity, reliability, and performance.
Servicing your AC unit annually can save money in the long run. AC service includes inspection, cleaning, and the replacement of some parts. The average AC service costs $75 to $200 but can reach $750 for large units. Unserviced AC units become 5% less efficient per year.
However, an AC tune-up can cost between $70 and $250 depending on a unit's age, condition, and other factors. Many HVAC maintenance contracts include two annual visits and range from $150 to $350 for basic services. Otherwise, scheduling one-off service visits can cost much more.
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.
The two most basic maintenance items are 1) regularly scheduled filter changes, and 2) condenser & evaporator coil cleaning. Both of these tasks ensure that you are getting proper air flow in your system, allowing the equipment to work as it is designed.
Regular HVAC inspections and maintenance ensure your system runs efficiently and experiences less wear and tear over time. This expanded lifespan means you won't have to invest in a new HVAC system prematurely, saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in early replacement costs.
Constant Breakdowns
When your AC is not maintained, it is likely riddled with a lot of internal issues that aren't being addressed. Wait long enough, and these issues can lead to constant breakdowns. Breakdowns are expensive to repair, and having them repeatedly takes away your comfort at home.
Just like any other HVAC system, air ducts require regular maintenance to ensure maximum efficiency. As a general rule of thumb, the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends air duct cleaning every 3 to 5 years. With certain methods, that cleaning recommendation can be extended to 6 to 8 years.
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.
HVAC inspections are a good way to spend a little money now to avoid a costly repair bill later. You'll generally pay between $200 and $500 for an inspection, depending on your specific type of HVAC system. We recommend an inspection twice per year.
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.
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.
Is your HVAC system new? Well, servicing it at least once a year may seem irrational. However, if you look forward to using the system for decades, this frequency should be more than just once every year. Older HVAC systems are, however, an exception.
A heating or cooling system is a significant investment, and it only makes sense to get as much use out of it as possible. In general, most HVAC systems will last 15 to 25 years, but depending on the type of system and other contributing factors, that estimate can be highly variable.
A typical AC maintenance appointment will take one to two hours. This time allows the technician to thoroughly inspect and clean the system, change filters, lubricate moving parts, check the condensate drain, tighten electrical connections, check refrigerant levels, and ensure all components are functioning correctly.
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.
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.
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.
Depending on normal weather patterns, the best time to buy an air conditioner is in the Spring (March and April) and the best time to install a new furnace is in the fall (September and October).