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When it comes to your heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system, the best surprise is no surprise. No one wants to wake up to a cold house in the middle of winter, or a hot one in the dog days of summer. Periodic checkups can help to eliminate those surprises and ensure your system is running properly. In the process, preventive maintenance checks extend the life of your system and save you money by detecting small issues before they become major problems.
Most HVAC contractors offer Preventive Maintenance Agreements (PMAs) that bring a technician to your home, usually once before the cooling season and once before the heating season, to test and inspect your system. For an annual fee, they will check system functions and safety controls; inspect electrical components and connections; ensure proper airflow and change dirty air filters; inspect pumps; lubricate and check flow rates where appropriate; and clean and lubricate motors.
Another all-inclusive option is a lifetime PMA that includes the cost of all maintenance, repairs, components, emergency service and equipment replacement.
It is important to remember that a PMA is different from a warranty. A warranty will only last for a prescribed period of time and, sometimes, only apply to specific parts of your unit. If a part is not working and it's still under warranty, the manufacturer will provide a free replacement part. However, since warranties do not cover labor, you will still be responsible for installation costs.
During an inspection, a technician will uncover any leaks, soot, rust, rotting parts, corroded electrical contacts and frayed wires in a unit. However, you can also help improve your unit's operation by performing a few simple maintenance tasks yourself. Your Coleman? brand HVAC dealer suggests the following tasks as you prepare for the upcoming heating season:
? Maintain records of your system's performance and maintenance.
? Change or clean your furnace filter.
? Clear debris away from intake and exhaust vents to ensure unobstructed airflow. It's also a good idea to clear away ice and snow during winter months.
? Check the thermostat wire entry point and, if necessary, apply caulk, so a draft won't influence the thermostat reading.
? Run your system through a full heating cycle to ensure it has plenty of combustion air and chimney draft. Report any unusual sounds. |
| Author: Stacey Moore |
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Author Bio:
Products that earn the ENERGY STAR prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. EPA and DOE. For more information about ENERGY STAR, visit www.energystar.gov. Using energy efficiently at home can be as easy as changing a light bulb. |
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