As a homeowner, establishing an HVAC maintenance timeline will help you get the most from this essential home appliance. These systems use parts that cause vibrations, require oiling, and collect dust. Routine attention helps keep them operating dependably and efficiently.
Typical System Lifetime
Although exceptions do exist, on average, an air conditioner will last between 15 and 20 years as long as itandrsquo;s regularly maintained and a furnace from 15 to 25 years.
Homeowner Maintenance
- Check the air filter monthly when your system is running frequently summer and winter. Dirty filters drive up operating costs and strain all the parts within the system by slowing the airflow through the air handler. Dust also accumulates inside the air handler that insulates the motor and the electric components that contribute to premature part failure.
- Stay on top of the condition of the outdoor condenser during the summer and year-round if your home has a heat pump. Dust that collects on the fins and condensing coil increases the time it takes for the refrigerant to lose the heat it collects from your home. Remove any vegetation that collects near the condenser and use a gentle stream of water to clean the coil.
Professional Maintenance Scheduling
Your HVAC maintenance timeline should include professional servicing once a year for each component, ideally before the cooling and heating seasons start. When an HVAC pro inspects your system, he or she will:
- Clean the parts.
- Check the refrigerant level.
- Test the electrical parts and remove dust and corrosion.
- Lubricate the motors and inspect the belts.
- Evaluate the airflow.
- Look for signs of leaky ductwork.
- Test the safety switches for gas furnaces and verify the flue is clear.
Besides keeping your system running as efficiently as possible, the inspection may catch small problems that could sideline your system when you most need it.
Sticking to an HVAC maintenance timeline helps you get the best efficiency, durability, and dependability from this complex appliance. To learn more, contact Valley Heating Cooling, Electrical by calling us at (408) 868-5500. We provide HVAC services for South Bay Peninsula and Santa Cruz homeowners.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the South Bay Peninsula and Santa Cruz areas of California about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Clker-Free-Vector-Images/pixabayandrdquo;