Seasonal maintenance keeps your central Florida heating, ventilation and air conditioning system running efficiently and reliably. When you call an HVAC contractor for AC maintenance, ask about the tasks that need to be performed and the company’s qualifications. You want an experienced, licensed contractor to complete these services. Del-Air Heating and Air Conditioning has provided expert heating and air conditioning services for the greater Orlando area since 1983.
What Is Preventive Maintenance?
As heating and cooling equipment operates day after day, parts wear out, dust and debris collect on components and filters get dirty. Homeowners can do some maintenance tasks, such as changing filters, clearing debris from around the outside unit and ensuring air vents are clean and not blocked.
A professional should thoroughly check the system twice each year, once in the spring before turning on the air conditioner the first time and once in the fall before powering up the furnace. Professionals have the expertise and diagnostic tools to ensure components are in good shape and the system is working synergistically.
During a preventive maintenance visit, a technician will examine and clean each component of an HVAC system. A qualified, experienced company will list the tasks to be done during a maintenance session. According to Energy Star, AC maintenance should include these elements:
- Clean or replace filter as needed.
- Check refrigerant levels.
- Clean condenser’s coils during some maintenance visits.
- Clean condensate drain and tubing.
- Check electrical wiring, connections and voltage.
- Lubricate fans and other moving parts as needed.
- Check the blower components.
- Check the thermostat’s operation.
- Ensure system cycles on and off properly.
- Check capacitors.
A maintenance checkup by Del-Air Heating and Air Conditioning includes all these elements and more. We list what we do on our website. When we come to your home, you can verify that our technicians complete these tasks during our maintenance session.
Questions to Ask During a Maintenance Session
There are several questions to ask during a tune-up. Ask about the condition and quality of the filter on the unit. Clogged filters allow dirt to enter ducts and coat other components downstream of the filter. Dirty filters reduce airflow, which affects comfort and lowers energy efficiency.
Standard filters capture large particulates. However, better quality filters capture smaller particulates that affect indoor air quality. Filters are rated by a minimum efficiency reporting value that describes what size and type of particles they collect. For most households, filters between MERV 8 and 11 are sufficient. The higher the number, the better the filtration.
If you don’t know where the filter is located or how to change it, ask the technician. Manufacturers recommend cleaning or changing filters at least every three months. If you have pets or live in an area with a lot of pollution, ask how often you should change filters.
There are many types of thermostats on the market, including digital, programmable and smart models. Ask the technician about the accuracy of your thermostat and whether a different type will improve energy efficiency.
Ask about the condition of your equipment. If your system requires frequent repairs or is more than 10 years old, a new model may save energy and money over time. If you have high electric bills, ask about ways to save energy. New technology, such as multi-stage compressors, can reduce energy usage significantly. Our technicians will recommend a system based on indoor comfort requirements, budget and long-term needs.
Verify the Company’s Credentials
Many companies offer AC maintenance services. However, not all have top-notch qualifications. Your heating and cooling system is a major investment that should be serviced by a certified, licensed company. Here are some credentials to look for:
- Affiliations with industry organizations such as Air Conditioning Contractors of America or the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers.
- Rating by the Better Business Bureau.
- Designation as a manufacturer’s authorized dealer.
- Certification by reputable organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency, Energy Star and NATE.
- Valid state license.
- Positive customer reviews and recommendations.
Del-Air Heating and Air Conditioning carries all these credentials and more. We work with major manufacturers, including Trane, Bryant, Honeywell, Carrier and Goodman. Our technicians undergo regular professional training to stay abreast of technological advances.
For more information about our air conditioning services and residential maintenance contracts, please call us.
