Sunny skies are a welcome respite from our damp winters in Auburn, CA. And while your home's HVAC system may have worked diligently through the cooler months, that’s no reason to forgo spring maintenance. Spoor's Heating & Air Conditioning provides high-quality maintenance and repairs to a range of major HVAC brands. Call us today to schedule an appointment!
Services To Consider During A Tuneup
Thermostat Upgrade
Want to know a simple way to help your HVAC system regardless of the season? Upgrade the thermostat! Programmable thermostats let you set the temperature and schedule, and forget it! Smart thermostats take the capability of programmable devices to a new level, learning when the home is occupied and adjusting as necessary.
Unit Replacement
Depending on how often the current unit needs repairs and its overall age, this spring might be the time to start considering a replacement. Most HVAC units last at least 10 years with regular AC repair and maintenance, but the technology used in air conditioners has improved immensely in recent years. This means new units can be significantly more efficient in cooling and energy than a unit installed several years ago.
Components Checked During Maintenance
Filters
Depending on the type of filter the unit uses, it may be washable or disposable. As outside air circulates through the system it carries dirt, dust, and other particles that become caught in the filter. Clean filters play a direct role in indoor air quality, which when lowered, can contribute to respiratory and other health issues.
Refrigerant
Having the correct refrigerant charge is essential to enjoying indoor comfort and having a long-lasting, efficient unit. During a checkup, the AC company technician checks the level and if necessary, evacuates or drains the existing refrigerant, repair, and recharge.
Condensate Drain
This drain is responsible for removing the condensation that forms as the air conditioner operates. If the drain clogs or otherwise malfunctions, the moisture backs up into the unit and the home, putting both at risk of mold and mildew growth, and water damage.
Electrical Elements
Electrical and mechanical are the two core actions an HVAC unit needs to work. And because the mechanical parts — fans and motors — can’t operate without a fully functional electrical system, the circuits, connections, wires, and subsequent components are checked.
Evaporator & Condenser Coils
Unless the air filter is changed regularly, the evaporator and condenser coil are the first places to show the signs. Clean coils mean consistently cool conditioned air which is why a technician scours these components during spring maintenance.
Benefits Of Spring Maintenance
Safety
A blown fuse is a hassle, but a short in an electrical connection can cause a real headache. Using an improperly sized unit can strain the home’s wiring and overload the electrical system. Plus, though it’s generally rare, it’s possible for an electrical fire to start in a malfunctioning HVAC unit.
Coverage
Most people don't give a second thought to the warranty until an issue develops. It's then they may have a rude awakening as they discover the warranty requires regular professional maintenance for the system. Otherwise, the warranty is voided and you're fully responsible for the cost of repairs or replacement.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
A clean unit does more than run efficiently thus lowering utility bills — it also improves the indoor air quality! Local heating and air units are closed systems, meaning the air inside the home continually circulates without the unit pulling in air from an outside source.
Yet, outside air does creep in, along with allergens, dust, animal dander, and more, lowering the air quality. Cleaning the unit inside and out removes buildup that can be circulated and helps the system remove more from the indoor air.
Why To Schedule Spring Maintenance
Calling AC companies in Auburn, CA, for springtime maintenance gives your HVAC unit an advantage as any issue that cropped up during the heating season can be resolved prior to the heavy use in summer.
Saving A Little Money Now, Spend A Lot Later
HVAC maintenance and repairs take a little time and money, but it pales in comparison to the time and money spent when the entire unit needs to be replaced. The cost of a new system depends on many factors, including whether the home’s ductwork is appropriate. Generally, the total installation cost exceeds several thousand dollars. Unless that amount is already in your monthly budget, a sudden replacement could cause undue financial stress.
The Risk Isn’t Worth The Reward
The biggest reason to schedule spring HVAC maintenance is being proactive. With planned maintenance, you can help prevent more serious repairs later if they are identified now. So, if you’re considering taking a risk and skipping a system tune-up, ask yourself if the risk is worth the reward in the long-term.