In the United States, three-quarters of all homes have air conditions, and these units account for about 6% of all the energy used at a cost of around $29 billion to homeowners (according to the U.S. Department of Energy). Regardless of the type of system you have, all heating and cooling equipment needs to be inspected, cleaned, and maintained to ensure that it can function properly without the risk of breakdown. Optimally, these services should be done once every spring and again in the fall to ensure that both your cooling and heating are up to par before either the summer or the winter sets in.

What Services Can I Expect?

During a heating and cooling inspection, you can expect a thorough check of your system. This can include a check of your filter, which is one of the leading causes of system failure. A dirty filter can make it harder for your heating and cooling system to work, which can force it to try and work harder, causing an eventual burnout. The indoor and outdoor coils will also be cleaned during your heating and cooling inspection, and this is something that you should always leave to the professionals to ensure proper efficiency, airflow, and drainage. One of the most overlooked components, the condensate pump, will also be cleaned if needed, as it can fill with sludge over time, which can lead to failure.

A visual inspection will also be conducted to ensure that everything is where it should be and in good condition. If they notice anything that may be a problem in the future, they will be able to tell you so that you can prepare to have it repaired or replaced before your next inspection.

The Importance of Bi-Annual Inspections

Having a heating and cooling inspection twice a year is important for many reasons. Firstly, in the spring, an inspection will allow you to find any problems that may have occurred with your furnace over the winter, and it can ensure that your air conditioning is ready to go for summer. On the other hand, the reverse is true in the fall, as you can find any issues with your AC that may have occurred during the summer and ensure your furnace is in good condition for winter. By doing this, you can ensure that your home is able to remain comfortable, without the risk of your heating or cooling going out when you need them most, which in some instances can be life-threatening.

If you haven't had your heating and cooling inspected this year, now is the time to schedule an inspection to ensure that your heating is ready for winter and that your AC is in good condition after the hot summer.