Professional Help
Many homeowners wonder why they can't just complete an entire tune-up themselves. The fact is a thorough tune-up requires skills, tools and knowledge that only experienced HVAC technicians can deliver. Here's what to expect when you call in the pros to perform annual HVAC system maintenance:
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Check thermostat
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Electrical connections
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Lubrication
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Condensate drain
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System Controls
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The blower
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Evaporator and condenser coils
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Check refrigerant
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Check line connections
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Inspect pressure, combustion, and exchanger
Check Thermostats. The tech will check the thermostat calibration and answer any questions that you may have about your programmable thermostat, they may even make suggestions for changes to your programming to help ensure maximum efficiency and cost savings.
Electrical Connections. Loose connections can be dangerous and cause improper operation that shortens the lifespan. The technician also measures voltage and current on equipment motors.
Lubrication. Lack of lubrication causes friction in the system causing overheating and breakdowns. Lubrication also helps the parts move more smoothly with less effort, decreasing the electricity consumed by your equipment and lengthens the life of the parts.
Condensate Drain. Air conditioning and heating produce condensation when they operate. Under normal conditions, the condensate collects in a pan and drains away to the outside. Sometimes blockages, sludge, or algae can form in the drain pipe during a heating or cooling season. This can keep the system from draining properly or can cause the drain pan to overflow. An overflowing drain pan can cause damage to the equipment or your home. The technician will check all of this and make sure it's clean and blockage free.
System Control. The start and shut-off sequences should occur in a certain order. The technician will make sure that the equipment is starting, operating, and shutting off in the proper pattern.
The Blower. The blower needs to be adjusted and maintained so that it continues to provide proper airflow. If the blower is not maintained it can decrease your systems efficient by up to 15%.
Evaporator and Condenser Coils. Dirty coils can decrease efficiency and are the most expensive parts to replace on any system. Cleaning the coils is definitely the most important part of maintaining the systems lifespan.
Check Refrigerant. An overcharged system and cost you in efficiency and increase your bills. While an undercharged system can develop a leak can cost you money in repairs to or replacement of the refrigerant system. The technician will check for leaks and overcharging. Some leaks, especially if they are caught early, can be repaired and the system can be recharged at the time of the visit.
Check Line Connections. Poor gas or oil connections are a fire hazard. They can also cause health problems if fumes escape into your home. Tightening the connections ensures safe and efficient operation.
Inspect Pressure, Combustion, and Exchanger. A dirty burner or a cracked heat exchanger can result in improper burner operation. This can lead to unsafe and inefficient operations. The technician can adjust the pressure and clean the burner however if there's a cracked exchanger you could potentially be looking at replacing the furnace.