Most HVAC providers in Raleigh and other areas will push for preventative maintenance. You may this is a gimmick just to make more money. You may even think, “whatever, I’ll just call when there’s an actual problem.”
The fact is, preventative maintenance can actually prevent costly problems from happening in the first place. These services are generally promoted in between the seasons with the most extreme temperatures, when your system will be running frequently to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. However, these checks can be done at any time of year.
So is preventative maintenance a scam? No, it’s a way to get in front of other issues that would hit your wallet much harder than this routine check-up.
Preventative Maintenance Can Save Money
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” This is a mantra most HVAC experts do not recommend, but fixing a “broke” system is going to cost way more than maintaining a properly function HVAC system. Having the system cleaned, and air filters replaced will keep the system running smoothly, and also give your technician a change to check everything else to make sure you’re in good shape during the next heat wave or winter storm.
These preventative checkups can also extend the life of your HVAC system, giving you huge savings in the long-term. During harsh outdoor conditions, your system is working at peak performance for extended periods of time which takes its toll. When the system is working this hard and has not been checked to worked efficiently, it has to exert itself even harder in order to reach the temperature you’ve set for inside of your home. In fact, HVAC systems with poor maintenance can increase energy use by 30 to 60 percent, according to The New Building Institute. If your system even can reach the desired temperature without proper maintenance, it’s going to hit your energy bill – and hit it hard!
Don’t just take our word for it, even the U.S. Department of Energy says that your HVAC system represents over 40 percent of household energy use, and that keeping your system running at peak efficiency will save you money – even up to 30 percent on your power bill!
When Should I Schedule Preventative HVAC Maintenance?
Because many homeowners choose to forego system checks before an actual problem arises, it’s very common for HVAC companies to get inundated with calls during the first cold snap of the year. With a quarterly checkup, you could completely forego any emergency HVAC repair caused by issues a technician could detect during a check-up. True, there are unforeseen issues that can still arise, but it’s much less likely with regular maintenance.
At the very least, you should have your system checked in the Spring and the Fall before your the peak seasons when your system will be running the most. Some companies recommend you have your system checked quarterly to keep your system running most efficiently and reduce your chances of having a bigger issue. You are 95% less likely to have to deal with a costly breakdown with regular system checks. We think you could probably get by with at least two checks, ideally in the spring and the fall between your system’s busiest times.
So just like you wouldn’t drive your car 25,000 miles without getting your oil changed because of how badly it would damage the vehicle, you shouldn’t overlook your HVAC system either! New HVAC installations don’t come cheap, and we want you to be able to push that much farther down the road by prolonging the life of your system.
If you’re looking for a trusted contractor for HVAC preventative maintenance in Raleigh , contact us today.
