subject: Schedule For Heating And Air Maintenance Checks [print this page] One of the most frequently asked questions of heating and an air technician in the Birmingham, Alabama area is 'how often does my system need serviced'? Generally, two times a year is sufficient. At the minimum, at least get your air conditioning serviced in the spring before it is needed, and have your furnace serviced in the fall before cold weather sets in.
If your system works overly hard as in extremely hot or extremely cold climates ask your hvac technician if your system requires more frequent service. In the case of heavy use check and change the filters more often.
Regular maintenance will save you money in the long run. Neglected systems break down more often than those that are maintained on schedule. In addition, a well maintained heating and air system will save you on energy costs. Emergency service calls will cost you more than a scheduled maintenance check as well. During routine service your system will be inspected, tuned up, maintenance will be performed and any potential problems can be addressed before they become a larger problem that can cost more to repair if you wait. Dirty coils are a good example of neglect. Not only will it cause your system to have to work harder it can also potentially damage the system. In addition it causes your system to use more energy, and it causes reduced air flow meaning there is less air coming out of your vents.
Persons with respiratory and other health problems often depend on their air conditioning to breathe easier. This is especially true in areas where high humidity is the standard. Increased humidity makes it feel hotter and for persons with respiratory or heart problems it can make breathing extremely difficult. For some persons, a breakdown can become life threatening. For family members with respiratory problems like these or even allergies and asthma you may want to talk to you heating and air professional in Birmingham, Alabama about using a HEPA filter which will clean the air with other measures in place such as regular vacuuming and dusting. However, not all systems can use HEPA filters, your heating and cooling professional can best advise you if whether yours can.
Changing your filters is the single most important action that a homeowner can do besides regular maintenance. A dirty and clogged filter makes your system, work harder which increases energy use, and can potentially damage your system. What type filter you have will determine how often you need to change it. All filters should be inspected every month with changing or cleaning as specified by the manufacturer. Even the cheapest filter will keep damaging dust and debris out of your system. The cheap, blue fiberglass filters at about $1 each must be changed monthly but dont expect them to clean your air as a HEPA filter will.
In addition, keep vent registers open and free of furniture, drapes or other clutter that can block them. Keep the area around your air return supply clear. Call our heating and air professionals in the Birmingham, Alabama area at Southern Home Heating and Air Conditioning Services today and let us show you how we can help you.
