The HVAC industry is a multibillion-dollar business that is growing at a rapid rate of 3.2% per year. The numbers are staggering, and it’s no wonder why: the average person spends about 90% of their time indoors.
Moreover, more than 60% of all American households have an air conditioner.
You’ve heard the saying, “Keep it clean, keep it cool.” But have you ever considered that keeping your HVAC system clean is actually a critical part of keeping it cool?
The truth is, as much as we’d like to think that our heating and air conditioning systems are impervious to outside factors, they’re not. They can get dirty just like anything else. And when they do, they don’t work as well.
That’s why HVAC maintenance is so important—it keeps your system running in a smooth manner and helps prevent breakdowns and repairs down the road.
You don’t want to wait until things are so bad that you have to shut down your HVAC system entirely—you need to know when it needs repairs or maintenance now so you can fix the AC issue before it turns into a major one that is tough to handle.
That’s where this article comes in. In this article, we’ve compiled all the signs your HVAC system needs repair or maintenance and the best tips for HVAC preventive maintenance into one place so that you get a clear idea and ensure your systems are always running at their best.
8 Signs Your HVAC System Needs Maintenance or Repair
Ever been sitting in your car, waiting for the AC to kick in and cool you down? Or watching a movie on a hot summer day and wishing you could turn up the heat? If so, then there’s a good chance your HVAC system needs some TLC. But how do you know if it’s time to get your system repaired or just give it some maintenance?
Here are three signs that could mean your HVAC system needs work:
Insufficient heating/cooling
If you’re not getting enough heating or cooling out of your unit, it may be time for a check-up. A professional AC repair and maintenance expert will be able to diagnose and fix any issues, so you can get back to relishing all that cool, crisp air!
Weak airflow
If you have weak airflow from your vents, it could mean something really is wrong with your HVAC unit. Your professional will be able to diagnose the issue and make sure everything is running in a smooth manner again!
Strange noises
If your unit is making strange noises, it could be a sign of a problem with the motor or compressor. This is annoying and potentially dangerous in terms of safety and efficiency.
Foul odors
If you notice foul odors coming from your vents, this could be a sign of a leak somewhere in the system or debris clogging up the drain line.
Constant cycling
If your HVAC unit is constantly on and off, it’s likely that there are some issues with the system. This can cause high utility bills and may even lead to other problems.
Water leaks or moisture buildup
If you notice water dripping from under your unit or humidity buildup in certain areas of your home, there could be a leak somewhere in the system. This can also lead to mold growth and structural damage.
Uneven temperature distribution
If one room seems colder than the rest, or if some rooms feel warmer, it could mean a problem with your thermostat settings or airflow circulation.
System age and lack of maintenance
The longer an HVAC system is in use, the more likely it is that something will break down—and this can happen even if the system has been regularly maintained. If your system is older than 10 years, it may be worth replacing it before something goes wrong.
HVAC Preventive Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners Before You Call Professionals
When you’re the homeowner and your HVAC system is acting up, it can feel like you’re in charge of a bunch of different jobs that are too challenging to handle on your own.
But we’ve got good news: there are a few simple things you can do yourself that will help keep your HVAC running smoothly.
Here’s an HVAC preventive maintenance checklist for homeowners by a professional AC maintenance technician in Lodi, CA:
Check and replace air filters.
The life of an air filter varies depending on how often you use your HVAC system and where you live, but typically they need to be replaced every 3-12 months (or more frequently if there’s a pet in the house). An easy way to remember when to check your air filter is to set a calendar reminder every 3 months or so—this way, it’ll be easy for you to remember and do! You can buy new filters at most hardware stores or online.
Clean the outdoor unit.
If there’s dirt or debris on top of the outdoor unit (where the fan is located), this can cause problems with airflow, which means less efficient cooling! For best results, clean off any dirt with a damp cloth before calling technicians in Lodi, CA, for repairs or maintenance.
Clear the area around the indoor unit.
If you haven’t cleaned up your yard for a long time, it is time to clean it. If you have pets, make sure they aren’t sleeping near your HVAC unit. If they urinate on it, the urine can cause corrosion and damage.
Inspect and clean vents and registers.
Make sure vents are not blocked by furniture or other objects. Check for any signs of mold or mildew growth in ductwork or areas where the air is being pushed through to make sure everything is clean and clear.
Test thermostat operation.
It’s easy to forget that the thermostat is a complex machine with moving parts. To keep your system running efficiently, you need to test it regularly. The best way to do this is by manually adjusting the temperature for five minutes at a time, then waiting another five minutes before making another adjustment. Repeat this process until you’ve gone through all of your settings.
Inspect electrical connections.
Another important part of HVAC preventive maintenance checks is inspecting the electrical connections. Look for signs of wear or damage, and make sure all bolts are tightened securely. You should also check your breaker box to ensure there aren’t any loose connections between the wires inside and outside of the box itself (this could mean something wrong with your wiring).
Listen for unusual noises.
If you hear a squeak or groan that doesn’t sound like the normal sounds of your HVAC system, get out your handy-dandy checklist and go over all the parts that could be making that noise. One of them might need replacing, and if you don’t have a trained professional on hand to do it, you could be in for a costly repair job—or worse!
Check for leaks.
Leaks can cause mold growth and other damage to your home, so it’s important to locate and fix them as soon as possible. Make sure to check all registers throughout your house—especially those in bedrooms—to see if they’re dripping water or showing signs of damage like rusting or discoloration.
Test airflow and temperature balance.
If your home feels too cool or warm, check the air filters and ensure they haven’t gotten clogged with dust. Also, check that all vents are clear of debris, which can cause temperature imbalances as well as inefficient airflow throughout the house.
Review energy bills.
If you notice that your energy bill has been increasing lately, there may be a problem with your HVAC system that needs repair or replacement. You might also want to consider installing an energy-efficient heating and cooling system like ductless mini-splits so that you can save dollars on utility bills while enjoying cool comfort in your home year round!
How Often Should Your HVAC Receive Service?
To keep your HVAC system operating efficiently and to address any potential issues in a timely manner, it’s generally recommended to schedule professional maintenance for your AC at least one time in a year. However, the frequency of service may vary depending on several factors, including:
System type
Not all systems are created equal! An HVAC service company should be able to help you decide which kind of HVAC system is best for your home and budget. If you have a heat pump or air handler already installed in your home, they should be able to inspect and work with this.
Age of the system
You may not realize how old your current system is until you start getting quotes from different companies—but it’s important! Older systems should be replaced more often than newer ones because they break down more frequently due to wear and tear on parts such as fans or filters. Knowing how old your system is will help determine whether or not it needs replacing soon before it causes problems like leaks or breaks down completely during winter months when heating bills tend to skyrocket!
Manufacturer recommendations
HVAC manufacturers often provide specific guidelines regarding maintenance schedules for their systems. Consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer to determine their recommended service intervals.
Usage and climate
The amount of usage and the climate in which you live can impact the wear and tear on your HVAC system. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures or your system operates year-round, more frequent maintenance may be necessary.
Previous issues
If your HVAC system has a history of frequent repairs or performance issues, it may be beneficial to schedule maintenance more frequently to identify and address potential problems before they escalate.
How Regular HVAC Maintenance Visits Can Benefit You?
Have you ever wondered what a regular HVAC maintenance visit can do for you?
The truth is, there are many benefits to having your HVAC system inspected regularly. Here are just a few of the reasons that regular maintenance visits can benefit you:
Improved Energy Efficiency
The HVAC system in your home or business uses a lot of energy. In fact, it can account for about half of your utility bills. Regular maintenance helps ensure the system is running at its most efficient level, which means lower costs for you!
Extended Lifespan
A well-maintained HVAC system will last longer than one that isn’t maintained properly. This means more money saved on repairing or replacing the unit because it failed before its time due to poor maintenance practices by previous owners/tenants.
Enhanced Performance
When your system is maintained regularly, it runs more efficiently—saving you money on your utility bills and making sure your home or office stays at a livable temperature no matter what the weather outside looks like!
Fewer Breakdowns and Costly Repairs
By having an expert AC maintenance team come out regularly for routine checkups, they can identify problems before they become significant issues requiring costly repairs or replacements.
Compliance with Warranty Requirements
In order to maintain an AC warranty, manufacturers require that an authorized technician regularly maintains systems according to their recommended schedule. Failure to follow these requirements may void the manufacturer’s warranty on the equipment itself (not just any claims).
Healthier Indoor Air Quality
If you want to breathe easier, then it’s time to schedule those routine HVAC maintenance visits. You’ll be doing your lungs a favor by keeping your indoor air clean and clear, which means you’ll feel better when you’re at home.
Safety Assurance
Your HVAC system is your home’s defense against the elements. In the hot summer months, it keeps you cool and comfortable. In cold winter months, it keeps you warm and cozy by heating your home with just the right amount of energy. But if your HVAC system isn’t running at full capacity, you’re not getting the best performance from your system—and that means less comfort. With regular AC maintenance visits from a certified HVAC technician in Lodi, AC, they can ensure that all of your HVAC system parts are working in a proper manner so that you can enjoy all three seasons in comfort!
Optimal Thermostat Operation
Your thermostat is an integral part of making sure your home stays at a comfortable temperature—and regular maintenance visits help ensure that the device is operating properly and efficiently. This way, you’ll never have to worry about whether or not the system will be able to do its job when you demand it most.
Priority Service and Discounted Repairs
When you have an issue with your HVAC system, the last thing you wish to do is wait. That’s it is important to have regular maintenance of your AC unit. When you schedule regular appointments with a professional AC maintenance service team, they’ll be able to quickly diagnose any issues and fix them before they get out of hand. As they want you to stay as comfortable as possible while saving money, they will offer discounted repairs on every visit.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that we’re watching over your system gives our customers peace of mind so they don’t have to worry about whether or not their heating and cooling systems are running at full capacity—all while keeping them safe from carbon monoxide poisoning (which can happen when appliances aren’t properly maintained).
Book Now For the Best AC Repair & Maintenance Services in Lodi, CA!
When you’re in need of AC repair or maintenance, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the options.
But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
At Rellaire, we offer a team of certified HVAC technicians who know how to fix your AC and keep it running in a smooth manner for years to come.
We are a family-owned and operated company with over two decades of experience in HVAC Repair & Maintenance Services in Lodi. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the most comprehensive service possible so that you can enjoy your home’s cooling system more than ever before!
Our HVAC experts are certified, licensed, and insured and are ready to provide an extensive range of services for all your AC needs:
– AC repair
– AC maintenance
– Air duct cleaning
– Air conditioner tune-ups
– Heat pump maintenance
– Thermostat replacement
– Furnace Repair
– Furnace Maintenance
– Boiler repair and installation
– Air quality testing
– And many more…
We’ve been servicing the Lodi area for two decades now, so we know what it takes to ensure your air conditioner works properly. Moreover, we offer 24/7 emergency service, so you can rest easy knowing an expert will always be there when you need help!
So whether your AC is simply acting up or has completely stopped working, let us put our expertise to work for you. Call our HVAC professionals today at (815) 477-2600!