Aside from a stringent monthly repayment schedule, home and business ownership comes with abundant responsibilities. Striving to maintain or exceed the property’s market value involves consistent care and upkeep of the structure and the primary appliances. 

The heating and cooling system maintenance is among the priorities because its efficiency ensures the comfortability of those living in the home.  

Not only are there basic care and upkeep tasks for property owners to perform throughout the year, but a quality and qualified Chilliwack heating and cooling professional from Class A Heating and Air Conditioning Ltd inspects and services the equipment at least once each year.  

Regular tune-ups serve as proactive and preventive to keep the HVAC functioning at peak performance for an extended lifespan. Technicians inspect to detect defects and make the necessary repairs to prevent major problems from developing down the road. 

Preventive And Proactive Heating and Cooling Maintenance 

Much of the standard HVAC upkeep tasks can be performed as do-it-yourself; however, heating and cooling equipment is intricate and should be professionally inspected and serviced once each year. Older equipment should be tuned up twice annually in the spring and fall. 

Developing problems will be more apparent to a credentialed and reliable Chilliwack technician as they check the ductwork and test the electric components. Visit  How to Keep Your HVAC System Working Efficiently | ENERGY STAR – for tips on maintaining efficiency with your HVAC. 

Also, when moving into a new place, it’s essential to have the unit checked to avoid unexpected or sudden issues. Here are a few HVAC prep steps when moving into a new home. 

Familiarize yourself with the system 

The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are among the most critical appliances in the home. It regulates the temperature and moves the air throughout residences and commercial properties. When moving into a new home or renting commercial space, familiarizing with the equipment is a priority. 

You’ll need to determine the type of heating and cooling you have, such as a heat pump and furnace, and the type of fuel it uses or if it’s electric. Other things to find out include: 

• History: The previous owner will have inspection reports from their annual inspections if the system is well-maintained. These will not only bring you up to date with previous issues, but efficient records will let you know the system’s age – critical when deciding if a replacement is necessary. 
• Efficiency: SEER – seasonal energy efficiency ratio determines the system’s level of efficiency. You should also be aware of the HSPF – heating seasonal performance factor and the AFUE – annual fuel utilization efficiency. 
• Guarantees: The warranty will have a set term, and certain actions can void the guarantee. It’s important to review these details. 

The model and its parts 

You’ll be better prepared to perform standard upkeep when you learn about the model and the primary components. These include the compressor, the fan, the electrical elements, and the condenser coil.  

Any questions or concerns can be addressed with the HVAC contractor, and you can visit the manufacturer’s website. When you understand how these parts work together, you can troubleshoot if a problem arises, particularly when you’re familiar with how it runs, the sounds it makes.  

Unusual noises can often be the only warning sign when something in the equipment fails. Go here for tips on air conditioning repairs. 

The filters 

The heating and cooling system air filters must be replaced regularly to maintain good air quality and for optimum equipment efficiency. The filter becomes dirty and clogged over time from filtering pet dander, debris, and dirt. The recommendation is to change them roughly every three months. 

However, if you’re in a location with higher pollutants or have multiple pets, it’s suggested to be changed every 30 days. The idea is to check it periodically to ensure it’s still effective. When you do change it, set an alert or mark it on the calendar to make it easier to remember when you’ll need to switch it next. 

This is one aspect of HVAC maintenance that can often be neglected. A clogged filter will cause the unit to work harder, leading to premature wear and tear and shortening the lifespan. 

The vents 

A common misconception is that you can save on utility costs by closing off vents in rooms that you use infrequently. In fact, all vents should remain open for smooth operation and optimum efficiency. There should also be no obstacles blocking the vents.  

All furnishings, rugs, curtains, and other household items should be a sufficient distance from the registers to prevent them from blocking the air. If you have preferences with how the system heats or cools, speak with your HVAC contractor for guidance on setting specific zones. 

One recommendation many techs offer is to invest in a smart thermostat, which can help regulate the temperature to your specific needs and preferences. 

Final Thought 

When moving into a new Chilliwack home or opening a commercial space, an HVAC inspection and servicing from a professional contractor will offer peace of mind, knowing the unit and its components are in good condition and will operate smoothly and efficiently.