Why You Should Leave HVAC Repair to the Professionals
There are some HVAC tasks homeowners can do themselves such as changing air filters, cleaning clogged drain lines, and sealing leaks. However, other repair jobs are better left to professionals.
A neglected HVAC system can cause health hazards like mold growth excess dander and allergens in the home. High repair for HVAC systems costs can also add up over time.
Cost
You can reduce repair costs by scheduling regular HVAC maintenance. A professional will inspect the system, clean the equipment, and ensure that all components are working properly.
Depending on the condition of your equipment, maintenance may include replacing air filters or cleaning the blower fan. This will not only lower repair costs but also improve indoor air quality and comfort.
Many homeowners insurance policies include an HVAC clause that covers the cost of repairs and replacements. However, these policies rarely cover everything. You can offset this cost by purchasing a home warranty plan.
If you have been experiencing frequent HVAC problems, then it may be time to replace the unit. This is especially true if the repair costs are increasing.
Other signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system are increased humidity, inconsistent air temperature in different rooms, and clogged or dirty filters. HVAC leaks are also a serious issue because they force the system to work harder and can lead to a complete breakdown over time.
Timeframe
The best way to minimize the timeframe of HVAC repairs is to keep up with your routine maintenance. This includes air conditioner tune-ups in spring and fall, as well as heater tune-ups before the polar vortexes hit.
Uneven heating or cooling is a clear sign that your system needs to be serviced. It could be due to a number of issues, but any unexplained changes should be checked by a professional. High energy bills are another indication that your system is no longer running efficiently.
Scheduling regular maintenance helps your system to more evenly distribute cold or hot air throughout your home. It can also reduce your repair expenses and improve your indoor air quality. If you are finding that your HVAC system is requiring frequent repairs, it may be more cost-effective to replace it. However, replacing your system can be expensive, so you should weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully. Then you can decide which solution is right for your home.
Repair vs. Replacement
When it comes to repairing or replacing your HVAC system, many factors can play into making the right decision. These include cost, home comfort, health and safety precautions, and environmental impact.
A key factor to consider is your current energy bills. If your bills have increased over the years without any significant changes in your home’s usage, then this could be a sign that your HVAC unit is approaching the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced.
You can determine this by looking at the date of manufacture on your unit or by consulting a professional. A professional can also inspect your ductwork for leaks and recommend any necessary repairs. They can also help you choose a new system that offers greater efficiency and saves money on your energy bills. This will pay for itself in less time than a repair and will offer you a higher return on investment. You can also opt for a high SEER or AFUE unit to further reduce your energy costs.
Warranty
A warranty is an important aspect to consider when purchasing a new HVAC system. There are many different types of warranties, and they cover a variety of things. Some are limited to specific parts or timeframes, while others cover all replacement costs and labor. It is important to read the fine print carefully, as some home warranty companies will decide who performs maintenance or repairs on the system, and will require yearly inspections from a qualified technician to stay eligible for the warranty.
Most manufacturers will have a parts warranty on their equipment for up to 10 years. To ensure that the manufacturer’s warranty stays valid, homeowners should make sure to register their equipment shortly after installation using a serial number provided by the manufacturer. Some manufacturers will also have a separate 10-year labor warranty to cover service call fees and repair labor costs. This can be a great way to avoid untimely budget stress for unexpected breakdowns, but the right warranty will need to be chosen.