The HVAC system plays a central role in the daily operating activities of your household. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the operation of the heating, cooling, and ventilation system comprises nearly half a home’s energy consumption. Given the significance of the HVAC system in a homeowner’s annual budget, it is important for families to recognize ways to preserve their HVAC systems and potentially save on heating and cooling costs. One of the best strategies for saving on HVAC expenses is to schedule preventative maintenance with the experts. A look at the practical reasons to prioritize HVAC maintenance can provide insight on how this service can help you save money both immediately and down the line.
Improved Energy Efficiency
HVAC maintenance helps your system operate at peak efficiency. This service involves correcting issues that may cause the system to work harder than intended. For example, a technician may check for clogged air filters, dirty evaporator coils, or defective thermostats. The technician may also service worn-out parts that may cause HVAC units to draw excess power from the grid. This process can include lubricating components that create friction and slow down efficiency. In addition to evaluating units, the HVAC technician may check for leaks that may reduce the performance of your ventilation network by limiting airflow. Neglecting such maintenance can make a quantifiable difference in productiveness of all heating and cooling. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, for example, dirty evaporator or condenser coils can impair energy efficiency by over 21%. By contacting a professional to inspect and clean these coils, you can eliminate this waste. A report from the Department of Energy found that regular maintenance of an HVAC system can enhance overall energy efficiency by up to 15%.
Lower Utility Bills
Along with improved energy efficiency, routine maintenance can also help lower utility bills. According to the Department of Energy and EPA’s ENERGY STAR program, the average family spends over $2,200 per year on power bills. Poorly maintained HVAC units use more power due to problems such as short cycling. In industry terms, short cycling occurs when an HVAC unit constantly restarts cycles in an effort to maintain stable indoor conditions. This can drive up your utility bills. Fortunately, the Department of Energy reports that homeowners may save up to 30% in utility costs by obtaining preventative maintenance for their HVAC units.
Extended Equipment Lifespan
Regular maintenance can also prolong the life expectancy of your HVAC equipment. Just as regular automotive servicing can extend the lifespan of your vehicle, consistent checkups of your heating and cooling system can ensure that all interconnected parts work correctly. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the average life expectancy of a well-serviced HVAC system is at least 20 years. In contrast, maintenance neglect can shave a decade off the lifespan of critical equipment. Considering that the cost of needing to replace your HVAC system can exceed $20,000, it only makes financial sense to make the economical choice of maintenance and keep your equipment in great condition for as long as possible.
Reduced Likelihood of Breakdowns or Emergency Repairs
Just as HVAC maintenance helps prolong the lifespan of your system overall, it also helps reduce the chances of unexpected breakdowns that require emergency repairs. This is especially true during extreme weather conditions in which HVAC units must work the hardest. Routine checkups allow technicians to identify seemingly minor issues before they devolve into breakdowns. For example, a flickering pilot light may seem like a small problem. But if this light extinguishes, the entire furnace can shut down. Similar, dirty or defective evaporator coils can cause your AC to stop cooling the home altogether. Save yourself the stress of HVAC emergencies by scheduling regular maintenance. According to the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), a routine maintenance plan can lower the risk of breakdowns by as much as 95%.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
The HVAC system does more than keep your house warm or cool. The ventilation network can also impact your house’s indoor air quality (IAQ). Over time, contaminants like dust or airborne allergens can accumulate in your ductwork and eventually disperse throughout the home. This results in poor indoor air quality. Routine maintenance helps clear your system of unwanted particles so that you can breathe easier again. By reducing the circulation of dirty air, you may also reduce the risk of health problems for individuals with allergies or respiratory illnesses.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
According to the Department of Energy, over three-quarters of all energy used in the United States goes toward the heating and cooling of residential and commercial buildings. Unfortunately, a report from the ENERGY STAR program found that 40% of that energy goes to waste due to inefficient HVAC systems and equipment. HVAC systems that do not run properly consume much more power than necessary, and this increases carbon emissions. Other HVAC problems like leaky ductwork result in substantial energy loss. By maintaining your system, you can reduce this waste and contribute to a healthier local environment for your family.
Protection of Warranty Coverage
Most warranties require regular upkeep to remain valid. If your experience system or equipment failure due to neglect, the warranty can become null and void. Professional maintenance provides documented proof of compliance with required checkups. This can spare you the upfront cost of replacement parts or serve as documentation in the event of a manufacturer return or recall.
Potential Increase in Resale Value
If you plan to put your home on the market, a well-maintained HVAC system may contribute to a higher resale value. Not only does a pristine system look better during initial home inspection and assessments, but documented proof of a solid maintenance record can make the home more appealing to potential realtors and buyers.
Potential Energy Rebates or Incentives
Some local utility companies or municipal governments offer rebates for residents who maintain energy-efficient HVAC systems. By investing in routine maintenance, you may qualify for financial incentives or tax breaks each year. This can further save money associated with annual energy costs.
Access to the Latest Upgrades
HVAC maintenance also provides access to the newest energy-efficient equipment or part upgrades. If one section of your HVAC system is outdated, switching out parts can improve heating or cooling performance without requiring a replacement of a whole system. Similarly, upgrading to a programmable thermostat can give homeowners greater control over temperature settings and help household save on energy costs.
Higher Return on Investment
While signing up for HVAC maintenance may have an initial cost, it also offers a solid return on investment. According to the Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA), every dollar spent on regular HVAC maintenance may translate into four dollars saved on energy costs.
Get Help Today
Signing up for consistent HVAC maintenance is a smart choice that pays off in the long run. Simply Air Conditioning Heating & Plumbing provides HVAC services for homes in Las Vegas and surrounding areas. We offer maintenance and repairs for AC units, furnaces, and heat pumps. Our technicians can also perform ductwork inspections to ensure the best indoor air quality. If you are interested in upgrading to a smart thermostat, we can ensure that it is compatible with your existing system and install the new device. For maximum convenience, sign up for our annual maintenance plan for comprehensive inspections and friendly scheduling reminders. Contact Simply Air Conditioning Heating & Plumbing today for all HVAC needs.