The heating system is the heart of any home. It keeps you snug and comfortable, especially when the temperatures get frigid in Blandon, PA. But, like any complex home comfort system, it needs a little TLC to perform at its best. Regular maintenance can preserve your heating system’s efficiency, extend its life span, and prevent emergency breakdowns.
Energy Efficiency
Your heating system needs professional attention occasionally, just like your car. Without regular tune-ups, it starts to sputter and guzzle more fuel, just like you would expect your vehicle to do if you did not take care of it. Regular HVAC maintenance makes your heater run smoother and more efficiently.
Over time, the internal components of your heating system can become covered in dirt and grime. This buildup gunks up your system and makes it work harder to keep your home comfortable. A unit that has to work harder consumes more fuel or electricity. During a maintenance visit, a HVAC technician cleans the internal parts of your heating system. After the cleaning, they lubricate the moving parts to reduce friction. Before leaving, they also calibrate your system to ensure it works as it should. These tasks ensure that your system operates at peak efficiency and can reduce your monthly energy costs.
Increased Lifespan of Your Heating System
Your heating system is a significant investment, making it a smart choice to do everything you can to make it last as long as possible. On average, heating systems will last 15 to 25 years. However, several factors can affect how long your system continues to do its job. In general, if you have purchased a quality name-brand unit, it will last longer than if you have a generic model. On the other hand, no matter what kind of heater you own, how well you maintain it is a significant factor in how long your system will continue to run without major problems.
When you have regular maintenance performed, a professional will catch small issues that can cause a lot of wear and tear in your unit. Malfunctioning components and loose connections can put extra strain on your system over the years. For instance, worn bearings, frayed belts, and loose electrical connections can cause your HVAC system’s motor to overheat and fail prematurely. By catching issues like these early, you are preventing wear and tear that will ultimately result in the need for a heating system replacement much earlier than expected.
Air Filters
HVAC air filters protect the internal parts of your heating system from dust, debris, and even larger objects. However, they can no longer perform this function when they get clogged. In addition, dirty filters can reduce airflow to the system, which may cause a host of problems. For instance, a clogged filter in a furnace can cause damage to the heat exchanger, short cycling, and a reduction in efficiency.
During maintenance, a HVAC professional will replace filters if needed. However, this is a task that you should become familiar with because HVAC filters need replacing at least every three months, and homeowners usually only have a professional tune-up once a year. It is also suggested that you inspect your system’s filters once a month. This is because the proposed three-month timeline is only an estimate. Factors like your heating system running more during extreme weather and if you have pets may make it necessary to change out your filters more often than recommended.
Reduced Airborne Contaminants
While the primary purpose of HVAC filters is to protect your equipment, they also play a significant role in indoor air quality. Filters catch pollen, dust mites, and other pollutants that would otherwise recirculate throughout your living spaces. They play an essential role in protecting your family’s health. In addition, if you have household members with respiratory issues, good filter maintenance combined with having a professional clean your heating system regularly can reduce their allergy and asthma symptoms.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
A well-maintained heating system is a lean, mean, energy-saving machine. It operates efficiently, using less fuel to produce the same amount of warmth. Regular visits by a professional mean fewer greenhouse gas emissions are released into the atmosphere.
Contact the Professionals
With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our team at Real Airflow Heating & Cooling is your go-to partner for all things heating-related in Blandon, PA. We install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. Additionally, we offer our customers the opportunity to become part of our Real Care Plan. Members get a discount on repairs and a yearly maintenance visit for their heating system in the fall and cooling system in the spring. Contact us today for heating system maintenance or any HVAC issues you may be experiencing.