Overview Of HVAC Maintenance Contracts
What is an HVAC Maintenance Contract?
An HVAC maintenance contract is an agreement between a homeowner and a service provider for regular maintenance of their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The contract typically involves regularly scheduled visits from technicians to inspect, clean, adjust, and repair the system to ensure it continues running efficiently year-round. Routine HVAC maintenance can reduce energy costs, as well as extend the life of the system. Homeowners should consider getting an annual HVAC maintenance contract to keep their systems running at peak performance.
Why is HVAC Maintenance Important?
HVAC maintenance is important because it helps keep your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system running properly. Ensuring that your system is inspected seasonally will ensure you avoid emergencies that could leave you feeling too hot or too cold.
What Is Included In An HVAC Maintenance Contract?
Different professionals provide different services, and depending on your contractor, they may look at some or all of these. Our list below outlines an inspection that ensures every area of your HVAC system is checked. An HVAC maintenance check-up contract should outline the following:
HVAC Maintenance Contract Checklist
Your maintenance contract should include a detailed list of what will be inspected or maintained. The following are a few examples of what may be included:
Heat Exchanger Inspection
The heat exchanger is responsible for transferring heat from the combustion cycle and ensuring toxic combustion is separated from that heated air. In addition to cleaning plates regularly, gaskets must be replaced as needed to prevent leaks.
Blower Motor Inspection
Responsible for ensuring your HVAC unit fan spins, it aids in circulating the air from your system into the rooms of your home. A few warning signs of breakdown or disrepair include weak airflow into the vents, overheating in the HVAC unit, and unusual noises from within the unit.
Combustion Chamber Inspection
The combustion chamber is where natural gas burns to create the heat that enters your heat exchange. An inspection ensures that the chamber is fully sealed, the flame is consistent in size and color, and there is no visible debris buildup or rust.
Electrical Component and Connections Check
HVAC units have many electrical components onboard to ensure the proper operation of the system as a whole. An HVAC technician will inspect your electrical components for faulty wires, corrosion, and even animal activity interfering with your system working properly.
Inspection of the Condensate Drain Pipe
A condensate drain is a drain line that leads to the outside of your home. Its purpose is to provide a pathway for condensation to escape the system. Most systems will shut down if this pipe backs up or is clogged.
Refrigerant Checks
Refrigerant is a substance within the copper coils of your HVAC system. Without the right amount of refrigerant in your mini-split, the unit may not be able to provide enough hot or cool air to move through your home. Inspecting the refrigerant levels in your A/C unit will ensure you're not damaging the unit long-term.
Gas Line Inspection
The gas lines that run from outside into your home to your furnace and other gas-powered appliances need regular inspection and maintenance. An HVAC professional will visually inspect and test the seals on your lines to ensure that there are no leaks.
Gas Pressure Testing
While inspecting the gas lines, a gas pressure test may be necessary to ensure enough gas is entering the HVAC unit to perform the needed tasks.
Air Filter Change
Air filters should be changed every 1-3 months or cleaned if you use a permanent filter, depending on the type of filter, your lifestyle and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Benefits of an Annual HVAC Maintenance Contract
There are many benefits to an annual HVAC maintenance contract including:
- Reduce HVAC emergency repair needs
- Maximize HVAC efficiency
- Extend the life of the HVAC unit(s) and components
- Priority service
- Discounted repair costs
- Maintain equipment warranty
Tips For Finding The Right HVAC Company For Your Needs
- Ask for referrals from family and friends - Get as many recommendations as possible to make an informed decision.
- Research reviews online - Check the company’s website and other reputable review sites to get an idea of their quality of service, customer satisfaction ratings, etc.
- Check qualifications and certifications - Make sure that the technician you hire is qualified and certified in HVAC maintenance. Ask for proof of qualifications or license numbers.
- Ask about warranties - Inquire about any warranties that might come with their service, such as a parts or labor warranty.
- Inquire about services offered - Confirm which services are included in their maintenance contract, including preventive maintenance, repairs, replacements, diagnostics, etc., to ensure they offer the services you need.
- Get an estimate - Request a written estimate for all work done so that there are no unexpected costs later on down the line.
- Confirm insurance coverage - Confirm that the HVAC company has adequate insurance coverage in case there are any issues down the line with their service or materials used while they were working on your property/HVAC system(s).
- Verify experience level – Ask how long they have been working in this field and what kind of experience they have when it comes to HVAC maintenance specifically. Knowing their level of expertise can help you determine if they’re qualified enough for your project.
Call on Professionals You Can Trust
Are you looking for more information on HVAC maintenance contracts? Contact the experts at Home Mechanics. We’re here to help!