Q. What is included in HVAC service?
HVAC service typically includes routine maintenance to keep your heating and cooling systems running efficiently, along with an inspection and any needed repairs. This includes your ventilation and ductwork. Scheduled maintenance service usually includes the following:
- Cleaning of coils, drains, and elements
- Inspect connections and motor operations
- Inspect circuits and wiring
- Check for ventilation leaks
- Testing of thermostat
- Test refrigerant pressure
- Test all safety features and shutoff
- Lubricate moving parts
Q. How often should you service HVAC?
Your HVAC system is comprised of your heating and cooling system, along with the ventilation system that distributes heat and air conditioning throughout your home. Your furnace, boiler or heat pump should be serviced annually, as well as your air conditioning system. The best time to schedule these services is in early fall for heating and early spring for air conditioning, so your systems are ready to go for their respective seasons.
Q. How much should I budget for HVAC?
There are many choices when it comes to heating and cooling your home today. A complete HVAC system includes heating, cooling, and ventilation if the system uses ducts. Other options can include radiant heat or heat pumps, which use no ducts, or geothermal systems. Cost to purchase and install a full HVAC system can range from $4,500 to more than $9,000. It’s important to work with a trusted HVAC specialist such as Wright Heating & Cooling to ensure you get the best system for your home.
Q. Is it worth getting air conditioning serviced?
Annual maintenance service for your air conditioning system ensures it is always working at its most efficient, which also ensures it will give you maximum years of service. The modest cost of an annual inspection and cleaning makes it well worth the investment in keeping your AC running at peak during hot summer months.
Q. How long can I expect my AC to last?
The life of your air conditioning unit will vary based on the quality of the system you buy, as well as your climate and comfort needs. An AC system will work harder and more often during a hot summer and in a home where the thermostat is kept at a lower average temperature. Depending on your usage, and with regular maintenance, a newer high efficiency system will typically last 15 to 20 years.
Q. What is the difference between a furnace and HVAC?
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning, so HVAC will include your furnace as the heat source, along with the ductwork and air conditioning system for cooling. Many people us HVAC to reference the air conditioning system only, while referring to their furnace separately. HVAC could also be used to reference boiler heating systems and mini splits, which do not use ductwork.
Q. Why is furnace repair so expensive?
Trained HVAC technicians are a critical part of keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Heating and cooling companies like Wright Heating & Cooling ensure their technicians are up to date on the latest features of HVAC systems so as to provide quality servicing and repairs. A service call also involves traveling to clients and transporting the needed equipment and parts. All of these factors, as well as fuel costs, contribute to the cost of a service call and labor, as well as needed replacement parts.