The average cost for HVAC repair is $350. Replacements go up to $7,500-$15,000.

Maintenance only costs $200 per year. Two annual visits help keep your system running at its best, and there are also tasks you can do yourself.

Read on to learn all about HVAC preventative maintenance.

Why You Need Preventative Maintenance

Maintaining your HVAC system has various benefits that extend beyond the system itself.

It prevents disasters such as breakdowns and improves your home’s air quality. It saves you money by reducing your energy bills. It also lengthens the lifespan of your air conditioning and heating systems.

Maintenance Checklist

Schedule HVAC preventative maintenance at least twice a year. Begin in the spring before you turn on the cooling systems. Do it again in the fall before the snow comes and you need heat.

Spring Maintenance

Spring cleaning applies to your HVAC system as well. Clean the filters and clear the drain lines and pans.

Test the thermostat. Change it to cool instead of heat.

Make sure there’s proper airflow around the motors, blowers, and blades. Inspect the ducts for blockages and the cabinet for leaks.

Fall Maintenance

Replace the air filters in the fall as you did in the spring. Focus your inspections on the heating, such as the ignition burner, flue, heat exchanger, and heat pump.

Check your thermostat again. Change it to heat instead of cool.

Clean and cover the outdoor condenser if you’re like the 75% of Americans who have central air. Clean the indoor furnace as well.

DIY Vs. Professional HVAC Maintenance

The major problem homeowners have with HVAC preventative maintenance, other than ignoring it, is not knowing what they can do themselves.

The wrong choice could affect your system forever. It could even be life and death.

DIY Maintenance

Performing a few maintenance tasks on your own helps lengthen the life of your system. It prevents issues from cropping up while you’re waiting for a professional to arrive.

Tasks you can complete on your own include:

• Clearing debris
• Cleaning and replacing filters
• Cleaning the condenser and indoor unit
• Inspecting components for damage
• Setting the thermostat

Professional Maintenance

Let a professional HVAC company handle anything that involves the parts inside your heating and cooling systems. This means adjusting the controls on your furnace or calibrating the internal components of your air conditioner.

Put them in charge of any electrical work. They have the experience and tools to keep from getting shocked.

Look for signs that you should hire them back beyond your usual maintenance schedule. Call if you notice issues such as:

• Leaks
• Uneven heating or cooling
• AC unit blowing warm air
• High energy bills
• Breaker trips
• Unusual noises
• Thermostat problems

Where to Get Professional HVAC Preventative Maintenance

Maintaining a residential HVAC system should be a regular effort. Do it at least twice a year before you need cooling in the spring and heating in the winter.

It also needs to be a team effort. Take on the simpler tasks yourself and hire a professional for the rest.

Get a quote for HVAC preventative maintenance from MetFab Heating and Cooling today.