Does My System Really Need Regular HVAC Maintenance?

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Too many homeowners bypass regular HVAC maintenance, thinking they'll just wait until something breaks and spend money as needed. This may or may not be wise, depending on what goes wrong. As any HVAC tech will tell you, you can often detect a potential problem with a routine maintenance call, and by addressing it early, you can prevent that small problem from growing into an expensive repair.

What Regular HVAC Maintenance Entails

Generally, preventative maintenance is scheduled in the spring and fall, just prior to the heavy cooling and heating seasons. Among the tasks in spring that the HVAC tech will perform:

• Change the HVAC filter.

• Clean the evaporative coil.

• Clean the condenser coils.

• Check the condensate drain and clean obstructions.

• Check refrigerant levels and fill as needed.

• Test airflow.

• Check wiring.

• Test the function of electronic controls.

• Check the thermostat for proper calibration.

• Check blower and condenser fans.

In winter, the HVAC tech will change the filter and check the air handler, controls, airflow, and wiring, while also checking these functions on the furnace:

• Clean and inspect burners and heat sensors.

• Inspect the heat exchanger and the CO detector.

• Lubricate blower and inducer fans.

• Check the vent system for leaks or blockages. Look at exterior surfaces of venting.

For a heat pump, a technician should check the systems mentioned above, plus the defrost function on the heat pump. Inspections may also include a look at the ductwork.

Checking all these systems via regular HVAC maintenance can ensure that the HVAC is more likely to run without breakdown through the height of the cooling and heating seasons. When all parts are in good repair, the system runs more efficiently, without friction and the high heat that can lead to breakdown and the need to replace parts. Furthermore, a more efficient system means you'll be spending less on utility bills.

Above all, it's important that the air filter is changed regularly. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, or if need be — that is, if conditions in your house, such as pets or extreme dust, make filters become dirty faster — change them more often.

To learn more about regular HVAC maintenance, contact Air Assurance of Broken Arrow.

How Long Is Too Long to Go Without HVAC Maintenance?

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Doing without professional HVAC maintenance is no bargain. Costly component replacements, along with significant labor costs, are often the consequence when a furnace or air conditioner needs repair because an initially minor malfunction has morphed into a major breakdown. Because system energy efficiency is one of the first casualties of neglected HVAC maintenance, you may also be paying significantly higher monthly electricity and/or gas bills and wondering why.

Another major issue is the fact that a record of annual preventive maintenance by a certified HVAC contractor is often required by the warranty terms of a furnace or air conditioner should the unit require repair or replacement coverage.

Here’s the typical life span of heating and cooling components and how HVAC maintenance matters:

Furnace Maintenance

• A gas-fired central furnace generally provides long service life ranging from 15 to 30 years.

• Fulfilling this extended life span assumes annual furnace preventive maintenance by a qualified technician to ensure that manufacturer-recommended service is performed and any incipient issues are identified and resolved before they become big problems.

• Since safety is a critical element of gas-furnace operation, annual maintenance also includes inspections and tests to confirm function of safety components and ensure safe operation.

Central AC Maintenance

• Today’s central air conditioners incorporate complex technology to maximize cooling performance and energy efficiency. Regular professional maintenance is vital to you being able to enjoy the benefits of these advancements.

• Depending on the manufacturer and typical annual hours of operation, a central AC can be expected to last an average of 12 to 17 years.

• According to industry statistics, the operating costs, reliability, and ultimate service life of a central air conditioner can be impacted if professional maintenance by a certified HVAC technician is neglected.

• Because certain warranty coverage may be void without a record of annual maintenance, the cost of expensive repairs and component replacements will likely fall entirely on the homeowner.

Talk to the experts at Air Assurance for more information about the benefits of regular HVAC maintenance by experienced, certified professionals.

PSO Air Conditioning Tune Up Rebate

SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL AC TUNE UP

Get professional preventive maintenance performed by a qualified HVAC technician. The service includes manufacturer-recommended maintenance procedures to ensure maximum furnace efficiency, lowest cost and reduced wear and tear. It also includes an up-close inspection of furnace components to detect and resolve any incipient problems now, before they become a major issue later.

For qualified service when it's time for turning on your heater, contact Air Assurance.

PSO AIR CONDITIONING TUNE UP REBATE

As a PSO account holder you could be eligible for a $75 instant rebate when you have your air conditioning system tuned up this spring and summer 2021. There are some specific qualifications to be eligible for the PSO AC Tune Up rebate that must be met, including a Pre and Post assessment of the data. Call Air Assurance for details and either way, having your air conditioning system professionally serviced is always recommended for peak performance optimization, and staying ahead of any breakdowns.

For help with residential air quality testing in your home, contact us at Air Assurance. We help keep homes comfortable, efficient, and breathable in Broken Arrow.

What Regular Checks Should You Make to Your AC in the Spring?

Factors such as spikes in negative temperatures and prolonged cold periods can affect your air conditioner's startup. Spring AC checks help you detect potential issues and have a comfortable, problem-free cooling season. Let's break down the steps you should take to physically and visually inspect your air conditioner to ensure it'll work correctly when you need it the most.

1. Inspect the outdoor AC panels. If there's a panel that's out of place or missing, call in an HVAC professional. These panels enclose the unit's electrical connections, so any missing or misaligned panel can pose a risk to you as well as to the unit's operation.

2. Clean the outdoor unit. The outdoor AC coil gets plugged up by foreign debris. Remove any debris that may have been blown into the coil and its surroundings to get optimum performance.

3. Check the suction-pipe insulation. The large insulated copper line on the outdoor AC unit can reduce indoor cooling performance if its insulation is damaged. Winter animals, trapped freezing water, and sun rot can damage the insulation. Have damaged insulation repaired or replaced before you start using the unit.

4. Change the filter. A clogged air filter causes your heating and air conditioning system to run less efficiently. When changing the filter, orient it according to the printed instructions that are on it.

5. Check the vents and grills. Make sure no items are blocking your supply and return grills and vents. Vacuum them to remove any pet hair, dirt, and debris that may have collected on them during the winter.

6. Inspect the condensate line. Make sure the drain line is properly placed. Dust, algae, rust, and other debris can clog up the line. A clogged drain line can make water flood your AC unit or even spill into the basement. You can flush a bleach solution down the pipe to keep it clear.

7. Turn the system on. After you've gone through the checklist, turn on your air conditioner on a hot day. Let it run for 15 or more minutes to feel if it's cooling your home properly.

Once you've performed the spring AC checks above, it's a good idea to bring in an expert. Some issues can only be detected and handled by a certified professional. Contact us at Air Assurance to have routine spring maintenance carried out on your air conditioner in the Broken Arrow area.

3 New Year HVAC Resolutions

A new year is almost upon us; time to move forward from the mistakes of the past and strive to do better. One mistake many people make is neglecting their HVAC system. Here are three HVAC resolutions you can make to ensure your system gets the care and attention it needs.

• Check your filter. Your HVAC filter captures contaminants and removes them from the air as it passes through the system. However, over time, those contaminants build up and the filter gets clogged. When that happens, it restricts airflow, requiring more energy to heat or cool your home properly and wearing out your system prematurely in the process. Next year, resolve to check your air filter every month, and replace it every three to six months, when it starts to look gray and opaque instead of white and translucent. This simple task will help your HVAC system run more smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

• Landscaping. A clogged filter isn't the only thing that can restrict airflow. Your outdoor A/C unit needs at least two square feet of clearance on all sides in order for air to flow through it properly. So make it a point to do regular landscaping around that area. Keep the grass mowed, remove any sticks or other debris, and trim back any branches from nearby trees that might encroach on the unit's personal space. Not only will your A/C function better, the area will look neater as well.

• Schedule annual maintenance. One of the most important HVAC resolutions you can make is to schedule your annual maintenance visit. In fact, you need two: one in the spring to fix up your A/C ahead of cooling season and one in the fall to get your furnace ready for heating season. Your HVAC technician will give the system a thorough going-over, fixing any issues before they become problems and making sure everything runs as efficiently as possible.

For help sticking to your HVAC resolutions in the new year and anytime, contact us at Air Assurance. Our business is caring for Broken Arrow's home-comfort needs.

Check Your HVAC Airflow

Getting the maximum comfort from our HVAC systems is what it's all about, but sometimes, that can be elusive. Many factors affect HVAC airflow, so whenever we feel we're not getting the best performance, it's important to single out the problem and see if it can be fixed.

Most CommonReasons for Bad Airflow

1. A dirty furnace filter will slow down your air filter, causing your HVAC system to work harder to deliver comfort. As your unit struggles, you will be running up higher utility bills. Dirty filters can also damage your system, causing parts to wear out sooner than they would otherwise.

2. A dense furnace filter can be a good thing for keeping out airborne particulates, but if it's too dense, your HVAC system will struggle to pull in enough return air to cool or heat your home. Make sure the filter you choose is within the manufacturer's recommendations. If you need to improve indoor air quality with a denser filter, then you may need to modify your system.

3. All sorts of things can go wrong with your ducts over time. Ducts are generally out of sight, so you may not see when segments become disconnected, or the ducts crack, develop holes or become blocked. If ducts were not installed correctly in the first place, then they may not be delivering the proper amount of air to each room. Sometimes poor duct design results in constricted segments where air can't get through.

4. More often than you would think, an HVAC system is installed without enough return vents -- which are the vents that pull in air so that it can be conditioned and delivered through the supply vents. Ideally, the same amount should be drawn in that is distributed, but this doesn't happen when return vents are inadequate.

5. Ducts or vents are sometimes the wrong size. Air moves through ducts by static pressure; if ducts are too big for the volume of air, pressure will drop and not enough air will be delivered. If ducts are too small, they will restrict airflow.

For more on HVAC airflow, contact Air Assurance.

January HVAC Maintenance To-Dos

Now that the new year is upon us, it's time to start thinking about January HVAC maintenance that will help improve your household. To help you out, we've compiled some quick tasks that you can add to your to-do list:

Replace the Air Filter

Now that the holidays are over and your guests have returned home, there's a good chance that your air filter has become a bit clogged and needs to be replaced. Some models can be cleaned instead, but the main point is to get an operational filter in your system so that it runs more smoothly. This will save you both energy and money on your monthly utility bill.

Contact an HVAC Technician

January is a great month to hire a qualified technician for the annual HVAC maintenance of your system. He or she will perform a tune-up of the system and pinpoint any problems that currently exist or could be an issue later on down the road. This maintenance will keep the unit running smoothly and efficiently. Plus, it will prolong the system's operational longevity.

Seal Air Leaks in Your Home

Air leaks throughout your home force your HVAC system to work harder in order to maintain a good comfort level. Find these air leaks and get them sealed with either weather stripping, caulk, or spray foam depending on the location and size. Around the edges of your doors and windows are a great place to start, and checking for tears in your home's ductwork is a good idea, too.

Check Your Registers

If you had a bunch of activity in your home over the holidays, there's a good chance that your registers have become blocked by furniture or simply gotten clogged up with dirt or debris. Make sure that the registers are clean and unobstructed to ensure proper airflow throughout your home.

For more expert advice on January HVAC maintenance or any other issues related to home comfort, reach out to the friendly professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving Broken Arrow and the surrounding area for over 30 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Early Winter Issues Your HVAC Might Encounter

If you want your home to stay warm during the colder months of the year, it's imperative that you pay attention to your heating system. To help you out, here are a few early winter problems that you'll want to nip in the bud.

Malfunctioning Furnace

If there's one thing you certainly don't want to deal with during the colder months of the year, it's a broken furnace. The good news is that a reputable HVAC technician can take care of any problems that arise and get your heating system working effectively again.

Frozen Pipes

Falling victim to a frozen pipe during the winter is one of the most horrendous events that a homeowner can experience. If your pipes are in danger of being frozen because they are exposed or otherwise unprotected, be sure to insulate them from the elements.

Clogged Air Filter

Once an air filter has become clogged up with dirt and debris, your heating system won't function as efficiently and more contaminants will make it into the air you breathe. Before winter is in full swing, take a look at the filter and see if it needs to be replaced or cleaned, and then continue doing this every month.

Bad Indoor Air Quality

Winter season typically coincides with an increase in illnesses. This is why it's so important to ensure that you have good quality air in your home. There are several steps that you can take, such as purchasing an air cleaner, using microfiber cloths for dusting, and, as mentioned above, keeping your air filter clean.

Restricted Airflow

A lack of airflow throughout your home can occur all year round, but it can be especially problematic when you're trying to stay warm. Making sure your registers aren't obstructed by anything and checking your ductwork for any damage will go a long way to fixing this problem.

If you need assistance dealing with your early winter problems or have other home comfort concerns, please contact the professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving the HVAC needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding area since 1985.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Holiday Safety 101: Fire Hazards

Many of the activities that you engage in during the holidays — decorating your house, cooking special meals, and entertaining family and friends — pose a fire risk. In fact, most household fires and property losses occur during the holiday season. The good news is you can increase holiday safety by knowing the potential hazards and making a few adjustments.

Christmas Trees

More than 200 home fires begin with Christmas trees annually. Using flame-retardant artificial trees significantly reduces the risk of fire. If you prefer a real tree, make sure you choose the freshest one and water it regularly. It's nearly impossible for a well-watered tree to ignite. Also, place it away from any heat sources such as a furnace, radiator, or space heater.

Candles

Predictably, the peak month for candle fires is December. Consider using flameless LED candles. If you must use traditional candles, don't place them on your Christmas tree. Keep lit candles at least a foot away from items that can burn. Set them on sturdy bases out of the reach of pets and children. Remember to snuff them out before retiring to bed.

Decorative Lights

Broken sockets, exposed wires, and shattered bulbs can spark a fire. Be sure to inspect your decorative lights carefully and replace any that are showing signs of wear or damage. Don't combine four or more lights on a single string.

Cooking

Cooking is a leading cause of holiday home fires. Take care not to leave any cooking food unattended. Store utensils, towels, food containers, and other combustible items away from your stove.

Fireplace

Soot can form flammable creosote on your chimney walls, so have your fireplace maintained professionally once a year. Don't leave a fire burning unattended and use a secure glass or metal screen to contain embers and sparks.

Take a moment to ensure you follow the necessary steps toward holiday safety so you and your family can enjoy the festivities to the fullest. For more home comfort tips, contact us at Air Assurance. We proudly serve Broken Arrow homeowners with superior HVAC products and dependable services.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.