Whether you’re a new homeowner or you’re newly committing to making household maintenance a top priority, you might not have a lot of experience with HVAC contractors and the services we provide for all the various systems in people’s homes. We’re here to help with a wide variety of household needs!
The HVAC services you need will depend upon the equipment you have as part of your HVAC system. Each system’s needs might be slightly different, but the things to be aware of overall are the same. Here’s a quick rundown of the types of HVAC system technology you might have, and how to be sure your system is receiving the services it needs.
Heating
H is for Heating, and every heating system should receive basic maintenance once a year. This is usually done in the early autumn before the system is needed for the season’s first cold snap. But if you’ve missed that window, you should get your maintenance done whenever you can because skipping a year can have serious consequences, like inefficiency, voided warranties, and increased risk of repair needs.
- Forced-Air Furnaces: These systems heat air at the furnace and blow it through ductwork to the living spaces of your home. They may be gas-burning or electric, and without maintenance, they may have breakdowns and even pose safety hazards.
- Boilers: Either using registers or radiators or pipes laid under your flooring (sometimes called radiant heat), boilers heat the air in your home by circulating hot water all around your house. These systems rarely need repair but should have regular maintenance.
Ventilation
V is for Ventilation, which can include many parts of your system. Your ducts should be checked occasionally and may require cleaning or sealing of leaks and cracks. Any air purifier or filtration system, humidifier or dehumidifier should also have professional attention during maintenance appointments.
Another aspect of ventilation is heat or energy recovery ventilators. These are extremely helpful for new or newly sealed and insulated homes, which are great at keeping your heated or cooled air in but can risk moisture, mildew, and poor ventilation. An HRV or ERV can allow fresh air to enter while preventing the energy waste from opening a window when it’s 25 degrees out.
Air Conditioning
AC is for Air Conditioning. Central or ductless, it requires yearly maintenance, generally around springtime. Alternatively, you may have a heat pump, which can provide some of the heat you need in cold weather and plenty of AC. Because this runs much more of the year than an air conditioner, it should have both spring and fall maintenance.
Warning Signs
Repair needs can come up suddenly, but you might be able to catch them early if you spot the signs. Any part of your HVAC system needs repair if it is making unusual noises or odors, going through cycles very quickly, failing to do its job completely or evenly, or driving your energy bills up. Don’t hesitate to get the service you need, so repairs can be done before problems get worse.
If you’re ready to schedule repair or HVAC maintenance in Janesville, WI, reach out right away!
You can always count on 24-Hour Home Comfort Services, your heating and cooling specialists.