Getting ahead of seasonal weather changes by scheduling preventive maintenance keeps homeowners comfortable and controls energy costs. No emergency break-downs, wasting energy, or sacrificing comfort when your HVAC system is needed most. Schedule your appointment several weeks in advance of extreme temperatures when service companies are less busy and have more time to:
Fix small problems before they cause big (expensive) issues.
Summer heat or winter chill is coming. Don’t wait until your system fails or you’re uncomfortable to call for HVAC service. Here’s everything you need to know about timing your annual maintenance.
Why should I schedule HVAC service before seasonal weather changes?
Waiting until the last minute to schedule HVAC service means running your equipment harder and longer right when systems fail. Dirty coils, aging parts like capacitors, and restricted airflow lead to a higher chance of breakdowns during seasonal extremes. What should have been routine maintenance becomes an emergency repair with longer service delays and expensive after-hours rates.
Service technicians have more availability in the weeks leading up to high-demand seasons. They can tune up your system to perform at its best when you need it most and have more time to:
Identify concerns early. Addressing minor issues, or scheduling a follow-up visit to take care of parts that may be on back-order, is much easier than trying to find someone when your system stops working in the middle of summer.
What’s the age of my current HVAC system?
Equipment life expectancy helps homeowners decide how early they should schedule service. Furnaces last about 15-20 years, while central air conditioners tend to last about 10-15 years. Seasonal efficiency losses and worn components are inevitable, but preventative maintenance can delay those wear-and-tear costs for years.
Older systems have shorter time frames before seasonal extremes arrive. Hiring a technician to evaluate your HVAC system before it’s needed can help you decide whether repairing is cost-effective or if it’s time to start planning for an upgrade. Waiting until temperatures change means losing comfort while you’re shopping.
What will the HVAC technician do before summer or winter?
The technician will evaluate common problem areas that affect your comfort and system efficiency. The air conditioner or furnace inspection includes checking coils, blowers, electrical connections, refrigerant charge, and safety controls. Airflow and thermostat calibration are two other items that greatly impact comfort and efficiency.
Poor air circulation and dirty HVAC components can decrease energy efficiency by up to 15%. Proper airflow, cleaning coils, and balancing humidity all help your system run more efficiently when heating or cooling demand increases.
Does HVAC service improve energy efficiency?
Just by scheduling HVAC service before your air conditioner or furnace is needed, you could notice:
Homeowners always ask, “How does HVAC service save me money?” Dirty filters, fouled coils, or low refrigerant cause your system to run longer to reach your desired temperature. Preventive maintenance reverses many of those efficiency-robbing problems, improving comfort and lowering energy bills.
Year-round savings may be noticed with shorter run times, more consistent temperatures throughout your home, and lower energy consumption. When you consider your savings over an entire heating or cooling season, those numbers can really add up!
What are signs I need service now?
If your system is making strange noises, smelling odd smells, or not performing like it used to, delay no more. Grinding, rattling, humming, or squealing noises are never normal and should be inspected immediately. Soft dirt or musty odors can be caused by electrical issues, elevated moisture levels, or improper airflow.
Notice some rooms are hotter or colder than others? Inconsistent temperatures are usually caused by restricted airflow, ductwork problems, or incorrect thermostat settings. All of these HVAC issues are exacerbated when temperatures are at their highest or lowest.
When’s the best time to schedule HVAC service?
Early spring is the best time to schedule air conditioner service before summer heat arrives. Weekend appointments are often available to avoid taking time off work, and you have several months to consider upgrade options or schedule installation.
Late summer or even early fall is ideal for heating service. Waiting too long may result in last-minute bookings that could have been avoided by scheduling before peak demand.
Mid-season (spring and fall) is the busiest time for HVAC companies. Spring and fall are also ideal times to schedule larger projects like air duct installation or replacement if your current system doesn’t include ductwork. Contractors have more availability and flexible scheduling options when business is slower.
DIY HVAC Maintenance vs Professional Service
Changing your air filters every few months and clearing away debris are quick DIY jobs that keep your system running smoothly. Some homeowners like to check the thermostat batteries and monitor their indoor temperature readings as well.
HVAC repairs or maintenance that involve handling refrigerant, electrical components, gas combustion systems, or specialized airflow testing should only be performed by qualified HVAC technicians. Partnering with a reputable HVAC contractor provides homeowners with:
Professional maintenance is important no matter how new your HVAC system is!
Can I wait until spring/summer/fall to schedule HVAC service?
Professional technicians should handle anything beyond changing your air filter and cleaning off the outside unit. Services from a licensed HVAC contractor ensures you’re getting:
Salmon Heating & Air Offers Annual Maintenance Plans
You still have time to schedule HVAC service a few weeks before seasonal weather changes. At Salmon Heating & Air, our goal is to help you save time and money while extending the lifespan of your HVAC system. Contact us today to learn more about our Annual Maintenance Plans!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q1: Can I wait until spring to schedule my air conditioning service?
A: While some homeowners get away with waiting until a few weeks before peak-season there is no guarantee your preferred HVAC company will be available. Weekend appointments may fill up quickly once the weather starts to warm up, and you run the risk of not being comfortable until your appointment.
Q2: Does HVAC service need to be done every year?
A: Depending on the type of equipment you own, HVAC service should be performed at least once per year. Heat pumps and systems with both heating and cooling functions should be inspected twice per year. These systems work year-round and require routine maintenance to ensure longevity.
Q3: How do I know if my HVAC needs service?
A: Some signs include odd noises coming from your furnace or air conditioner, unpleasant smells when your system is running, higher energy bills, weak airflow, and hot or cold spots throughout your home.
Q4: Is annual HVAC maintenance really necessary?
A: Yes! Yearly maintenance can prolong the life of your HVAC system by catching small problems before they become larger, more expensive problems.
Q5: How early should I schedule my furnace service before winter?
A: Late summer to early fall is the ideal time to schedule furnace maintenance. Since heat isn’t needed quite as much, waiting too long could result in being placed on a waitlist once temperatures start to drop.
