Why Ignoring HVAC Maintenance Can Cost You Big

Some minor annoyances often go away if you ignore them long enough. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case when it comes to your HVAC system.

Like a small health problem that worsens over time, neglecting regular maintenance can transform minor issues into costly repairs—or even complete system failure.

Here, we'll explore why regular maintenance is crucial for your home and wallet. We’re also including a practical HVAC maintenance checklist to help you avoid costly repairs.

Why HVAC Preventative Maintenance is Critical

Energy Efficiency

HVAC preventative maintenance directly impacts system efficiency and energy bills. As components wear down or collect dust, your system has to work harder to achieve the same results, which you’ll see reflected in rising energy bills. How much does HVAC preventative maintenance save you? The U.S. Department of Energy estimates it could shave 5-15% off your monthly bill.

Protecting Your Investment

A well-maintained HVAC system can last 15-20 years. Unfortunately, neglect can cut this lifespan in half. Regular heating and air conditioning maintenance allows our technicians to address minor issues, preventing a domino effect where one failed component leads to the breakdown of others.

Trust us, maintenance costs are negligible, especially when you consider that a complete system replacement runs between $5,000 and $12,000.

Indoor Air Quality

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air pollutants are typically 2-5 times worse than outdoor levels. Unfortunately, neglected HVAC systems often contribute to poor indoor air quality by circulating dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria throughout your home.

During HVAC maintenance service, our technicians clean or replace filters and inspect ductwork, ensuring your system is working cleanly and efficiently. Regular service doesn’t just improve efficiency; it mitigates airborne contaminants, which can trigger allergies and severe respiratory issues.

Emergency Breakdowns

HVAC system breakdowns rarely occur on your schedule. Nope, they generally happen during periods of peak use—the coldest winter nights and the hottest summer days.

While we are available 24/7 for emergency service, on-demand service can cost three to four times as much as routine maintenance. You can avoid these scenarios altogether simply by scheduling HVAC preventative maintenance service.

Voided Warranties

Many homeowners don’t realize that air conditioning and heating system maintenance service isn’t just recommended—it’s mandatory if you want to maintain your warranty.

Unbeknownst to many homeowners, most HVAC manufacturers make maintenance a condition of their warranty coverage. Skipping check-ups can void that warranty, leaving you financially responsible for repairs.

Simple HVAC Maintenance Checklist

Want to maintain your system but don’t know where to start? While we do recommend reaching out to us to schedule HVAC maintenance service, these simple steps will get you started.

Monthly Checklist

• Clean or replace your air filters: Dirty filters not only reduce air quality but also make your system work harder. If you have pets or allergies, consider checking your filters bi-weekly.
• Keep outdoor units clear: Remove leaves, grass clippings, and any debris surrounding your outdoor unit to maintain airflow and efficiency.
• Monitor the system: Listen for unusual sounds—banging, scraping, or whistling noises. Take note of any burning smells, musty odors, or reduced airflow.

Seasonally

• Clean vents: Vent covers are dust magnets. Remove and wash them in warm, soapy water during peak season use.
• Uncover blocked vents: Keep furniture and rugs at least six inches away from vents to ensure proper airflow.
• Adjust thermostat habits: Does your thermostat align with your daily habits? Reprogram your thermostat to match your schedule. Set temperatures a few degrees higher in summer and lower in winter when you are away or asleep. This simple move could significantly reduce your annual energy costs.

Every Six Months

• Professional HVAC maintenance: Reach out to the Stephens HVAC maintenance team. We’ll tune up and inspect your cooling system in the spring and your heating system in the fall—before heavy use season starts.
• Safety check: As an additional safety measure, test your carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries. This is critical for homes with gas furnaces and stoves.

Need On-Call Comfort? Stephens is Here to Help

Stephens Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is here to save you time, money, and stress by offering comprehensive HVAC maintenance services. Keep your system running at peak condition! Contact us today to schedule service.