Leaving preventative maintenance to chance rarely pays dividends. Several analogies work when thinking about whether an HVAC tune-up is worth the investment. One way is thinking of it like an annual physical, especially when considering that the HVAC system is not unlike some major organs within the human body — is going to the doctor once a year worthwhile to stay healthy? Well, it is, technically, entirely possible to be completely healthy and never have an annual physical. The question is, are you proactive or reactive? Treating any problem reactively ends up costing more in the end.
The same can be said for an HVAC tune-up. It is entirely possible, over the lifetime of a furnace, to never have a tune-up and never need a costly repair. But that chance is highly risky, and even more unlikely, and more often than not will create more stress about what could go wrong, rather than having the peace of mind that comes from smaller, preventative maintenance on the HVAC system.
Preventative Maintenance and Consistent Performance
The main purpose of an HVAC tune-up is to identify minor issues and address them before they have the potential to balloon into major problems. By making a simple fix or part replacement now, the unit will continue to stay running and be prepared to perform on those exceptionally hot or cold days. However, leaving a minor issue without a fix runs the risk of that part breaking down when the furnace or A/C is needed most, making for a very uncomfortable home, and a desperate call for a more costly emergency repair.
Cost Savings and Efficiency
Not only are last-minute repairs more expensive, but letting an unmaintained HVAC unit run adds unnecessary cost to a home’s utility bills, as a system running with clogged filters or worn parts requires more energy to produce the same consistent temperature output. This, in turn, drives up the cost of the electricity bill for the home. However, if the unit is serviced, then minor updates will ensure the HVAC system continues to run as efficiently as possible, keeping the utilities consistent, and the home comfortable.
Lifespan and Warranty
Regular tune-ups will keep the parts within an HVAC unit as up-to-date as possible, which will allow the unit to maximize its life cycle, rather than dying out earlier than is necessary due to a faulty part. Tune-ups will also continue to uphold a unit’s warranty, as many warranties require that HVAC systems receive regular maintenance. Keeping the warranty valid is always in the best interest of the homeowner, as it provides helpful safety nets for major repairs or issues that would otherwise be difficult to cover.
So, all in all, are HVAC tune-ups necessary? Not necessarily. But are they worth it, and in the best interest of the homeowner? Absolutely. To ensure the best performance of the entire HVAC system, and to keep a home as comfortable as possible, regular HVAC tune-ups are a worthwhile service. Are you planning an HVAC tune-up, or have more questions about the kinds of benefits that a tune-up could provide for your home HVAC unit? Let the licensed professionals at Duane Blanton Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Cooling help! Trained and knowledgeable, with over 30 years of experience, the expert technicians at Duane Blanton Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Cooling can answer your questions and provide informed advice about the best course of action to take with your home’s HVAC unit. Give Duane Blanton Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Cooling a call today at (815) 219-4323, or reach them online through their convenient online scheduling portal using your computer or mobile web browser.