What do cars, HVAC systems, and your body have in common? They all require maintenance to perform better for longer. Another quality they share is that many of us can “forget” the importance of regular upkeep until something breaks down.
Most heating and cooling systems will last between 15-25 years. Several factors determine which end of that spectrum your system will fall into, but the most important and controllable variable is your commitment to preventive maintenance.
This article explores how HVAC maintenance contributes to your system’s longevity and explains how regular servicing can help it reach the 25-year club.
Components Will Inevitably Wear Down
We’ll spare you the specific details of how HVAC systems work (feel free to reach out if you’re interested!), but it’s important to understand that hundreds of components work together to keep your home comfortable.
Critical parts like belts, bearings, coils, compressors, and motors are essential to a functioning system. When one starts to wear down, the others feel the strain. For example, a malfunctioning crankcase heater can cause oil to become less effective as a lubricant, leading to damaged bearings. If that sounds like a foreign language, consider us your translator.
Though you may not notice any single part failing immediately, minor breakdowns can cause a cascade of issues that leave you sweating on a hot summer day or wrapped in a blanket in the middle of January. As simple as it sounds, the best way to prevent major complications is to keep up with a regular maintenance schedule.
You wouldn’t dream of driving 20,000 miles without an oil change or waiting ten years to replace your car’s brakes, and it’s essential to take that same proactive maintenance approach with your home’s climate system.
Warranty Compliance
When you invest in a new HVAC system for your home, if something goes wrong, you’ll likely be covered under those two magic words: manufacturer’s warranty. While warranty programs can undoubtedly save you thousands of dollars, you have to hold up your end of the bargain.
Manufacturers know the role regular maintenance plays in keeping systems functioning properly. If you neglect service appointments for long periods of time and start experiencing problems, your warranty coverage could be in jeopardy. Though the specific time ranges vary, most manufacturers require at least one maintenance visit annually to remain eligible for warranty protection.
If you recently installed or plan to install a new HVAC system in your home, carefully review the warranty paperwork to ensure you stay in good standing with the manufacturer and abide by the fine print.
Efficiency Means More Than Just Lower Energy Bills
Everyone wants to reduce their monthly energy bill without sacrificing comfort. That’s a given. But the advantages of “efficiency” extend beyond your utility expenses.
An inefficient HVAC system has to work harder to heat and cool your home. Over time, the added demands will cause premature breakdowns, costly repairs, and eventually, require system replacement. The good news? You have the power to extend your system’s lifespan.
Minor costs associated with routine maintenance are insignificant compared to the cost of replacement. For example, replacing a clogged filter costs less than $100 and can increase efficiency by 5-15%. Cheaper energy bills aside, this efficiency increase means a significant reduction in how hard your system must work to achieve the same output.
As mentioned in the intro, most HVAC systems are engineered to last upwards of 20 years. Over two decades, small things add up. By addressing minor problems, you’ll avoid catastrophic failures that can cost thousands of dollars to repair.
Contact Hoock’s Heating & Cooling for Industry-Leading HVAC Maintenace
We understand the role peace of mind plays in whole-home comfort and want you to feel confident in your home’s HVAC system. Our job is to facilitate peak performance for as long as possible. Hoock’s technicians have the training and experience to identify minor problems before they become expensive hassles.
Since 2017, Hoock’s has been the name St. Louis-area homeowners trust for their HVAC needs. If you’re ready to experience the difference, give us a call at (636) 266-2187 or contact us online to request a routine maintenance appointment.