When Do You Need A Heating And Cooling Tune-Up?
Heating and cooling is something many of us take for granted, that is until something goes wrong. Heating and cooling tune-ups are important to helping keep your system running as efficiently as possible, for as long as possible. Heating and cooling tune-ups should be conducted twice a year to ensure that nothing unexpected will happen in the summer heat, or winter cold. If you’re unsure if you need a heating and cooling tune-up, here are a few warning signs to look out for.
Signs You Need A Heating And Cooling Tune-Up
- A Surge in Energy Bills. During the height of summer or winter, it’s normal to see an increase in your energy bills, this is because your system is working harder to keep you comfortable in more extreme temperatures. However, if you’re noticing a steady spike in your energy bills, even when you shouldn’t be, it may be a sign that your system is performing as efficiently as it should. This could signal internal problems that need to be addressed by professional heating and cooling services. If you’ve noticed a steady rise, getting your system checked out can not only help you stave off expensive repairs, but it can save you money overall in energy costs.
- Lack of Air Flow. If you turn your system on and feel little or no air coming out, it may be time to schedule heating and cooling maintenance. A drop in air flow can be caused by a number of issues, all of which are best diagnosed by a professional. It could be as simple as a clogged filter, or as complicated as a broken fan in which definite repair will be needed.
- Strange Noises. If you’re hearing loud banging, squealing, or grinding noises coming from your unit, don’t just shrug it off. These sounds can be the telltale sign that something has gone wrong inside the machine that could lead to a system breakdown. Catching this issue early can help prevent other problems from springing up, and help prevent you from having to spend more on heating and cooling repair than would have been necessary.
- More Frequent Problems. Often times heating and cooling systems don’t break down altogether, instead you may begin encountering more frequent minimal problems that can be resolved, only to happen again a short while later. These frequent issues could be a sign that your system is nearing the end of its lifespan and that it’s time to start thinking about a replacement. If your system is fairly new, it could just be a fact of a couple more in depth repairs; however, it’s best to note exactly how old the unit is before brushing it off. A unit that is over 10 years old, for instance, is more likely to be on its last legs.
- You’ve Never Had A Tune-Up. Whether you brought you home without knowing the state of the unit, or you’ve just never bothered getting a tune-up, if it’s been over a year since someone check up on your unit, it’s time to call a professional. A heating and cooling tune-up will not only give you peace of mind, but a professional can give you advice on what to look out for, as well as when you should schedule another inspection. When it comes to your heating and cooling, it’s better to be safe than sorry, as no one wants to be left without heat or air in extreme temperatures!