Originally published in February 2017, updated May 2020.

It seems that furnaces and air conditioners always break down when the weather is at its worst. However, there is a way to minimize the occurrence of breakdowns. Regular HVAC maintenance on your heating and air conditioning system identifies small problems before they become big, reducing the need for inconvenient and costly repairs. It also prolongs the life of the system.

What is Preventive HVAC Maintenance?

Preventive maintenance examines, adjusts and calibrates all elements of a heating and air conditioning system so that components work efficiently. The heating system should be tuned up before first use in the fall, and the air conditioner should be tuned up before first use in the spring.

Homeowners should clean or change air filters regularly. Dirty filters are the main reason a system stops working. Dirty filters impede air flow and cause the compressor to work harder. Dirt accumulating on coils affects the output of conditioned air. Homeowners can also keep the housing of the outside component of a heating and air conditioning system free of debris and leaves. Other tasks are best left to the professionals.

Elements of a Tune-Up

A thorough HVAC check-up by a professional air conditioning contractor includes:

  • Check electrical connections and wiring
  • Lubricate moving parts
  • Check refrigerant levels
  • Clean drain pan and condensate line
  • Check and calibrate thermostat
  • Clean coils and housing
  • Check gas connections, if any, pressure and combustion
  • Examine furnace plenum and housing
  • Make sure the unit cycles on and off properly

Regular tune-ups keep the system working efficiently, which reduces energy use and provides a comfortable indoor environment.

One Source Heating, Cooling & Electrical

One Source Heating, Cooling & Electrical has provided heating, ventilation and air conditioning services in Birmingham, Alabama, since 1996. We provide new installations, repairs and 24-hour emergency service on all makes and models of HVAC equipment. We also offer annual maintenance agreements that include two tune-ups a year.

If you would like more information or to schedule a tune-up for your system, give us a call. Be sure to read about our specials and the guarantees we have on our work.

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