Summer is almost over, and as the fall season peeks its head around the corner, it’s time to check your HVAC system. It’s been treating you well all through the sweaty summer nights, but cooler weather means you’ll need to use your heating. Understanding what to look out for, when to call the pros and what kind of preventative maintenance you can perform is part of owning a heating and air conditioning system. If you’re on the hunt for reliable HVAC services, Cardinal Plumbing, Heating and Air has the experts you need to get the job done. Whether it’s repair or replacement, our expert team is always on stand-by. Reach out today at 703-705-4466.

Why is System Maintenance so Important?

Alright, so before we jump into what you need to know about annual fall maintenance, you may be wondering why it’s so important anyway. As a homeowner, it can be easy to let your HVAC system slip out of your mind. Since most of the system is hidden from sight, as long as you’re getting the correct temperature air from the vents and registers, you don’t have a problem. HVAC systems normally last around 15-25 years. The last thing you want to do is shave off a few years due to improper maintenance. It’s an incredibly easy thing to do, so keeping on top of a proper maintenance and servicing schedule is important to get the most out of your system. Proper maintenance is the key to keeping your home comfortable all year long. While you should have your system serviced by a professional every year, seasonal maintenance can be just as valuable.

Getting Ready for Fall with HVAC Maintenance

As the days get shorter and the weather starts getting cooler, you’ll probably be calling on your heating system a lot more often. Keep in mind that your HVAC system is more than the air conditioner. While you may have had a summer of exceptionally comfortable days, that doesn’t necessarily mean the heating portion of your system is in tip-top shape. While you won’t find any building codes or laws requiring yearly fall maintenance, it’s a good idea. Many HVAC professionals will tell you that these are the kind of visits that catch problems before they become repairs. But it’s not just the health of your system; it’s also about safety. Look, you can do a lot on your own to keep your furnace operational. Understanding some simple furnace basics can get you a long way. Even so, when the temperature starts to dip and you start turning up the thermostat, it’s always a good idea to get a hold of a professional.

Stay Safe with Annual Furnace Servicing

When we say a heating maintenance plan can save lives, we really mean it. While you can find plenty of alternative ways to heat your home, by and large, the most popular form of heating comes from home furnaces. Keeping up with furnace maintenance is critical to keeping your home safe and warm throughout the winter months. Fire safety is certainly a big concern, but other sinister issues like carbon monoxide poisoning account for most furnace-related incidents. Although most systems are far and above regulated safety standards, no system is 100% safe. That’s why ensuring your furnace will run smoothly and safely is so important. During your fall visit, a technician will give your furnace a complete and thorough inspection. Some tasks they might perform include:
  • Checking for combustion hazards
  • Inspecting for leaking carbon monoxide
  • Repair necessary items and make replacement recommendations

Putting Off Maintenance Can Cost You Down the Line

If this is the first time you’re hearing about proper heating system maintenance, well, you’re not alone. Many homeowners don’t put a fall HVAC maintenance visit on their seasonal to-do lists. So, should you put it off too? By this point, you should at least be aware of the safety risks, but what about the risks to the system itself? If you’re thinking that HVAC maintenance isn’t important, here are some other related risks to ignoring a fall checkup:
  • Keeping your warranty — If you’ve got a new home or heating system, it’s most likely under warranty. Often, part of the agreement is that you perform proper maintenance.
  • Mitigate costly repairs — Look, dealing with an HVAC system is a complicated process. Having a professional take care of the job means catching small issues before they become costly repairs.
  • Getting the most out of your system — A new furnace costs upward of around $6,500. If you don’t want to prematurely replace your system, a proper maintenance schedule is key.
  • Cutting heating costs — An efficient system should not break the bank. If you put off maintenance, it can mean debris and other problems in your system are putting a strain on your energy bills.
It’s a pretty simple calculation. Put off maintenance now, and pay for repairs later. The last thing you want is to face a boatload of repairs during the peak of the chilly weather, or even worse, a costly replacement. Having a licensed HVAC technician come by and do a thorough inspection means you’ll have peace of mind throughout the entire winter.

Looking for Quality Heating and Air Conditioning Service in Sterling, VA?

If you’re on the hunt for reliable heating and air conditioning repair and maintenance, look no further than the experienced team at Cardinal Plumbing, Heating and Air. Whether you’re looking for emergency services or routine maintenance, Cardinal’s team has the pros you need to get your system running smoothly all year long. Get in contact today to schedule an appointment.