Perhaps you’re new to the idea of getting regular maintenance for your HVAC system. Certainly many homeowners prefer to wait until something goes wrong before they call the HVAC tech to look over things.
However, it’s always a good idea to have the air conditioner and the furnace or heat pump checked once a year to ensure they’re running right. In our climate, it’s particularly crucial to inspect the air conditioner, as we’re likely to use it a good part of the year. You don’t want it breaking down just when you need it most, and a thorough inspection can often detect potential problems before they become big problems that require major repairs.
The Best Time for Spring Maintenance
So when is the best time to schedule spring maintenance? The short answer is, naturally, in the spring. As you know, that’s when you feel it’s slightly warmer than it was during the winter as the days start to get longer. Probably the best time to schedule spring maintenance is when you think you’re going to be closing up the house, not using the furnace or other heating system, and turning on the AC most of the time.
What Your Tech Will Check During AC Maintenance
Some of the things the tech will check are unique to the air conditioner, but also to be inspected are components that the cooling and heating systems share. Here are some of the most frequent points of inspection:
Air Conditioner
- Condenser
- Coils
- Condensate drain and drip pans
- Refrigerant charge; check for leaks
- Insulation on suction line
- Test return and supply air temperatures across the coil
Entire HVAC System
- Capacitors
- Contactor
- Incoming-line voltage
- Wiring
- Relays and switches
- Motor amperages
- Air filter
- Thermostat calibration
- Ducts
- Blower motor
When your HVAC tech visits, it’s a great time to discuss concerns you might have, such as malfunctions or any suspicious noises. You can also get recommendations on high energy bills, inconsistent airflow, and uncomfortable hot or cold spots in your home.
For more on spring maintenance, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company.
