How Often Should I Schedule Heating and Cooling Maintenance?

Maintaining your heating and cooling system is a bit like caring for your car. It runs more smoothly and lasts longer when you give it regular servicing, check-ups and tune-ups.

But how often should you schedule heating and cooling maintenance? It’s a common question, and the answer can depend on several factors.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the recommended frequency for HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) maintenance and why it’s essential for the comfort and efficiency of your home.

Signs Your System Needs Maintenance

There are a number of telltale signs that your heating and cooling system might need urgent maintenance. Here are some of the most common:

• Poor airflow: If you notice weak or uneven airflow from your ducted heating and cooling vents, your ductwork, filters, or blower motor might have issues. Reduced airflow can lead to uneven heating or cooling throughout your home.
• Strange noises: Unusual sounds, such as banging, clanking, squealing, or rattling, coming from your air conditioner are often a sign of underlying problems. Loose or damaged components, worn-out belts, or issues with the blower motor can cause these noises.
• Inconsistent temperatures: If your space is consistently too hot or too cold while your thermostat is set at a comfortable temperature, there may be issues with your HVAC system. This could be due to ductwork problems, thermostat malfunctions, or an inefficient ducted system.
• Increased energy bills: A sudden and unexplained spike in your energy bills for heating-cooling is a clear indicator that your HVAC system is not operating efficiently. It may be working harder to achieve the desired temperature due to dirty filters, low refrigerant levels, or other contaminants.
• Frequent on-off cycling: If your HVAC system often turns on and off, it might be short-cycling. This can be caused by an oversized unit, a malfunctioning thermostat, or issues with the system’s sensors. Short cycling can lead to increased wear and tear on air conditioning units.
• Foul odours: Unpleasant odours such as musty or burning smells could be a sign of dirt or electrical issues within the ducted cooling and heating system. Ignoring these odours could lead to air quality issues.
• Leaking or moisture: If you notice water or moisture around your HVAC unit, it’s a clear sign of a problem. Leaks can be caused by condensation issues, refrigerant leaks, or clogged drain lines, and should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.
• High humidity or indoor air quality problems: If you’re experiencing high indoor humidity or respiratory issues, it could be related to your HVAC system. Inadequate dehumidification, dirty filters, used air conditioners, or a malfunctioning air purifier can all contribute to indoor air quality problems.
• Thermostat problems: A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to temperature inconsistencies. If your thermostat isn’t responding correctly, it could be time for maintenance or a thermostat replacement.
• Age of the system: HVAC systems have a typical lifespan, and as they age, they may require more frequent maintenance and repairs. If your system is nearing or has exceeded its expected lifespan, it’s a good idea to have it checked regularly for signs of deterioration.

Regular HVAC maintenance can help address and prevent these issues, making sure your air conditioning system operates efficiently and reliably. You should also schedule annual professional maintenance and routine services like changing air filters to keep your system in top shape.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Before diving into the ideal maintenance schedule for cooling and heating systems, let’s understand why it’s important. The main reasons include:

• Energy efficiency: An efficiently running HVAC system consumes less energy, which translates to lower utility bills. Regular maintenance guarantees that your system operates at peak performance while you can save money.
• Extended lifespan: HVAC units can be a significant investment, and you want to get the most out of servicing them. Routine maintenance can add years to your system’s lifespan, delaying the need for a costly replacement.
• Improved air quality: Clean and well-maintained systems help filter out allergens and contaminants, contributing to better indoor air quality.
• Prevent costly repairs: Small issues that go unnoticed can turn into major problems if left unaddressed. Regular preventive maintenance can often catch these problems early, preventing more significant, costlier repairs down the line.

Now, let’s get into the specifics of how often you should schedule heating and cooling systems maintenance.

Frequency for Heating and Cooling Maintenance

Most HVAC system experts recommend scheduling professional maintenance at least once a year, preferably in the spring or autumn. This is to make sure that your system is ready for the upcoming season.

During these annual visits, a trained technician will perform a thorough inspection, clean vital components, change air filters, and make any necessary adjustments.

In addition to annual maintenance, it’s essential to replace your air filters regularly. The frequency may vary depending on your filter, but a general rule is to check them every one to three months. Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your cooling and heating system work harder and reducing its efficiency.

While professional maintenance is crucial, there are some tasks you can perform yourself to keep your HVAC in top shape. These include keeping the area around the outdoor air conditioning unit clear of debris.

Additionally, you can regularly check for visible damage or leaks, and see that vents and registers are unblocked.

If you have a more complex or larger HVAC system, or if you live in an extremely hot or cold climate, you might benefit from a properly maintained unit. Your HVAC technician can help you determine the optimal service schedule based on your specific needs.

Wrapping Up

In the world of heating and cooling maintenance, the rule of thumb is annual professional check-ups, regular filter changes, and some maintenance tasks you can do yourself. This makes sure that your system remains efficient, reliable, and capable of providing the comfort you expect from it.

Remember, investing in maintenance is not just about preventing problems; it’s about optimising your system’s performance and prolonging its life.

With regular HVAC maintenance, you can stay cosy in the winter and cool in the summer while keeping your energy bills in check. It’s a win-win for your comfort and your wallet.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.