Why You Need a Pre-Season HVAC Tune Up

13 Sep Why You Need a Pre-Season HVAC Tune Up

Summer is the peak time of year for the use of air conditioners. Coincidentally, it’s also the time for air conditioner problems to surface and a time when HVAC companies are occupied with an overwhelming amount of repair orders. As the owner of an air conditioning system, it’s important to take steps to avoid the need for repairs.

One of the best ways to prevent A/C malfunctions is to schedule a pre-season service call when the temperature outside is above 65 degrees. This enables residential HVAC contractors to get your air conditioner running at peak performance before the high temps of summer.

Here’s what your HVAC contractor normally does when servicing an A/C unit:

Outside Procedure

The HVAC technician performs checks on the outside components of your A/C system, and performs the following:

• Connects gauges to make sure that the unit is maintaining the correct pressure, then turns the system on to check readings
• Cleans the condenser fins and inspects it for debris that could have accumulated over the winter months
• Adds oil to the oil ports
• Examines the electrical connections for loose or damaged wires

Inside procedure

A pre season service also includes an indoor inspection of your system. The HVAC technician will examine the components inside your house to make sure they are in good working order. The technician then performs the following:

• Checking components for any biological growth such as mold or mildew. These are potential health hazards that should not be allowed to thrive anywhere in your home
• Installs a new, high-quality air filter if necessary. Changing the air filter on a regular basis is essential for the efficient operation of your air conditioning and heating systems. Moreover, running the air conditioner for extended periods of time with a clogged or dirty air filter can have an adverse effect on the energy efficiency of the unit. Dirt and debris can potentially lead to component failure which is a major cause of air conditioner down time.
• Checks and calibrates the thermostat if necessary. If your A/C unit is of an older model, you can discuss with your technician about the installation of a programmable thermostat which can help to cut energy costs
• Checks the operational/working condition of major system components. Inspects the blower fan to make sure that it is well-balanced and does not produce any unusual noise during operation
• Check gas connections (if your A/C is run by natural gas) to ensure safety
• Examines the condensate drain for clogs and dust buildup which can cause water backup and cause damage to the unit and other areas of your home

Once the service call is completed, you should expect the technician to give you a written report of the work performed including recommendations for repairs or supplementary maintenance jobs that may be necessary.

You should also expect your HVAC contractor to provide you with a service guarantee as an assurance of their workmanship, and that they do not expect a breakdown to happen within the specified warranty period.

What You should Do to Maintain the Efficiency of Your Air Conditioning Unit

As the owner of an air conditioning unit, you should not rely solely on HVAC contractors to maintain your equipment. There are certain things you can do to keep your air conditioner running efficiently between service checks. These include:

• Regular cleaning/changing of air filters. This is a very simple task that can do a lot to help you save on repair costs and ensure efficient performance of your HVAC system.
• Regular cleaning of the supply and return vents. Do this to ensure that no debris can find its way into the duct work.
• Inspection of the outside condenser unit during midwinter. This helps to prevent buildup of debris which is a major cause of damage. Give special attention to this if trees and shrubs are present near the unit.
• Inspection of the duct system to identify any holes or issues with the duct work.

Your HVAC system is designed for continuous operation for long periods, but it can break down if you neglect the most important aspect of its useful life – proper and regular maintenance from reputable residential HVAC contractors like Van Dyck Mechanical. Should a breakdown happen to your air conditioning unit, seek our expert assistance. We provide residential AC repair in OKC that homeowners trust.

Call us at (405) 224-2665 for your home or commercial HVAC maintenance and repair needs.