Keep Your HVAC System Up and Running with a Maintenance Contract

As Murphy’s Law states: “Anything that can go wrong will go wrong, and at the worst possible time.”

When it comes to your HVAC system, the “worst possible time” for something to go wrong is during the coldest days of winter or when summer temperatures spike. That is when most HVAC contractors tend to be busiest, and appointments may be hard to come by.

The good news is you can avoid many heating and cooling emergencies with preventative maintenance. To ensure your system receives the maintenance it needs on a regular basis, you may want to consider a maintenance contract with a trusted HVAC contractor.

Maintenance Contract Benefits

When you have a maintenance contract, your HVAC contractor can identify and address potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. Small problems, such as a worn-out component or a minor leak, can be detected and resolved during routine maintenance, preventing the need for emergency repairs, which often come with a hefty price tag.

Other benefits of a maintenance contract include:

Energy efficiency and cost savings.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), heating and cooling account for nearly half of the energy used in a typical American home. A well-maintained HVAC system operates more efficiently, consuming less energy to achieve the desired temperature. The regular inspections, cleaning and tune-ups included in maintenance contracts can significantly improve system efficiency, resulting in lower energy bills over time.

Extended lifespan of equipment.

The lifespan of an HVAC system is influenced by a variety of factors, including usage, climate and maintenance. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to premature wear and tear, reducing the overall lifespan of the equipment. Well-maintained systems tend to last longer, providing homeowners with a higher return on their investment.

Improved indoor air quality.

Regular maintenance not only keeps your HVAC system running smoothly but also contributes to better indoor air quality. Dust, dirt and pollutants can accumulate in the system over time, leading to compromised air quality and potential health issues. The routine inspections and cleaning included in maintenance contracts help ensure that the air circulating in your home is clean and healthy.

Reduced carbon footprint.

An efficiently operating HVAC system consumes less energy, which directly translates to a reduced carbon footprint. The DOE stresses the importance of energy conservation to mitigate the environmental impact of residential energy use.

How to Choose a Maintenance Contract

Before purchasing an HVAC maintenance contract, it’s important to understand exactly what’s covered and what’s not.
Although there are many variations, contracts generally fall into one of these categories:

• Contracts covering only the labor cost, usually of either annual or semiannual planned maintenance visits to check, clean and adjust equipment.
• Contracts covering the labor costs for planned maintenance visits and for unplanned repairs.
• Contracts covering labor costs for both maintenance and repair visits plus costs of selected parts.

If you’re considering a contract from a company that you’ve already worked with, ask them for advice on whether a maintenance contract is right for you and what to consider when purchasing one. If you’re unfamiliar with the company, be sure to read online reviews and check them out on social media, through the Better Business Bureau and by asking existing customers. If you live in Annville, Lebanon, Hershey or Palmyra, PA, and surrounding areas, the team at Precision would be happy to answer your questions about maintenance contracts.