Is your HVAC unit ready for Fall?
We know with everyone’s hectic schedules, an HVAC system maintenance check is not on your Autumn to-do list, but it should be.
According to a study conducted by the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, 9 out of 10 HVAC system failures are caused by dirt & dust. That means that if you hire a professional to clean and service your HVAC system, and you change your filter once a month, you are 90% less likely to have a breakdown this year!
Don’t take the chance that your equipment will let you down this season. Fall is the perfect time to have your heating equipment checked by a qualified HVAC professional. Regular maintenance keeps your system components operating at peak efficiency, helps to prevent breakdowns and usually gives you more years of dependable service. Not only that, but, tune-ups help you save up to 30% off of your energy bill each year.
Even though it’s still very hot & humid now, the Autumn weather brings a chill to the air and the turning of the leaves. The kids are headed back to school and homeowners should be having their HVAC system checked before the cold weather and winter leaves them in the cold.
Do not take the chance that your equipment will let you down this season. Fall is the perfect time to have your heating equipment checked by a qualified professional. Regular maintenance keeps system components operating at peak efficiency, helps to prevent breakdowns and usually gives you more years of dependable service.
Our service partner plans offer many options for our customers who want to stay on top of their HVAC system maintenance. Scheduling your fall maintenance in advance gives you automatic priority service, discounts and other incentives. During a fall tune-up, you can expect to receive the following points of inspection:
- Inspect blower assembly
- Clean or replace air filters
- Tighten wire connections
- Measure and record indoor voltage amps
- Monitor and record supply and return air temps
- Inspect thermostat operation
- Test and inspect safety controls
- Test system start and run capacitors
- Inspect ductwork
- Clear condensate drain
HEAT PUMP CHECKLIST
- Inspect indoor and outdoor coils
- Monitor & record refrigerant pressures
- Measure & record outdoor voltage/amps
- Measure & record heat strip voltage/amps
- Inspect compressor function
- Check defrost cycle
- Monitor and inspect contactor function
GAS FURNACE CHECKLIST
- Inspect heat exchanger
- Inspect combustion blower motor
- Inspect and clean burners
- Inspect flue pipe
- Inspect heat cycle sequence
- Inspect pilot assembly
- Inspect burner flame
ADDED BONUS: With our yearly maintenance agreements, as long as it is in effect, you will never have to pay an after-hours emergency fee, will receive on-going maintenance inspections and save 15% off any service work performed. To view our service agreements available, visit us online at http://trustfourstar.com/ServicePartner.php
As you can see, there are many points to cover, but the time and cost involved is well worth it. Four Star Plumbing & Air Conditioning service partner plans usually more than pay for themselves in fewer breakdowns and repairs, increased energy savings & discounts on services. We at Four Star believe that a fall tune-up for your system is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that your home is comfortable this winter, and for many years thereafter.
Some things you can do as a homeowner in the mean-time to help your system run properly.
- REPLACE THE FILTERS – A clean filter is vital for efficient airflow from the air handler through the ducts and home. If the filter is dirty and dusty, slower air movement increases the amount of energy necessary to heat the air resulting in higher heating costs. For most people, changing a filter is a do-it yourself project although it sometimes is included in a Fall HVAC tune-up
- CLEAR THE VENTS – Check the vents/grills/registers in each room for obstructions and dust. New or rearranged furniture may block the vent reducing its efficiency. Also, vacuum out any dust that may have accumulated during the summer months.
- GET A TUNE-UP – A professional HVAC tune-up not only increases the efficiency of the system but also gives the property owner peace of mind. The technician also checks the system’s components for any signs of potential problems.
- CHECK WINDOWS & DOORS – The HVAC system isn’t the only part of the winter heating equation. Drafty and leaky windows and doors allow cold air into the home decreasing personal comfort and increasing heating costs. Check the caulking and weather stripping on each door and window. Replace any that appear to be cracked or broken. Consider replacing windows with energy efficient thermal glass, if possible.
- THERMOSTATS – Thermostats in HVAC systems that include air conditioning often have a heating/cooling switch. As the seasons change, place this switch in the proper position. Many homeowners set the thermostat warmer in the summer than during the winter. This reduces energy consumption during both seasons. Find the right comfort level for your family and leave it there.
- CALL THE PROFESSIONALS – The best way to keep your home HVAC system running reliably and efficiency is to have Four Star Plumbing & Air Conditioning fix the little problems before they become a big emergency. We can help by performing an annual HVAC tune-up and safety inspection that goes beyond just a basic cleaning. Our HVAC Tune-Up check for malfunctions that can cause expensive breakdowns during peak use. Giving you the peace of mind knowing your HVAC system is operating safely and efficiently all winter long.