HVAC Services in Gardendale, TX
A home’s heating and air conditioning (HVAC) system is one of its most important components. Over the course of owning a home in Gardendale, TX, an individual will possibly need to replace or upgrade the system. More likely, however, the homeowner will need to ensure the system receives proper annual maintenance and repairs.
Besides making sure the system receives annual maintenance and any necessary repairs, homeowners will also want to monitor the residence’s indoor air quality. Poor air quality can occur because air ducts build up dust and debris over time. A dirty furnace filter can also contribute to the circulation of dust while the system is on.
Maintenance Recommendations
Finding a reputable certified HVAC technician to perform annual maintenance on a furnace and air conditioning unit is the first step towards extending the life of the system. However, changing the system’s filter on a monthly basis can also go a long way towards keeping the system in good shape. By changing the filter each month, the homeowner reduces the wear and tear on the system’s moving parts.
Annual maintenance checks involve checking the parts for any problems, ensuring carbon monoxide levels are not dangerously high and cleaning the system to keep it running efficiently. Many homeowners purchase annual or bi-annual maintenance contracts with a vendor to help save money. An annual contract for HVAC Services can include one furnace and one air conditioner tune-up, while a bi-annual contract will include two of each.
In areas with higher levels of humidity, like Gardendale, TX, an individual may install a whole-home dehumidifier. This piece of equipment works to maintain proper humidity levels within a home each time the air conditioning or furnace comes on. If a system has a whole-home dehumidifier installed, it will also need to be looked at annually to ensure all parts are working correctly.
Repair or Replace?
The life of an HVAC system will depend on how well it is taken care of, but there are some average lifespans a homeowner can keep in mind. Typically, an air conditioning unit will last between 13 and 15 years if it is properly maintained. A gas furnace will typically last between 15 and 20 years with annual maintenance. However, some furnaces and air conditioning units may last longer or shorter times, depending on other factors like frequency of use and the system’s quality.
While annual maintenance checks can help prevent problems, it’s still possible for a part to go bad or break down. As a general rule of thumb, if the system still has several years left on its lifespan, repairing the broken part will be worth it. However, if the system is close to the end of its life and was going to be replaced soon, it will probably make more sense to go ahead and replace it.
Upgrading a System
In areas where temperatures dictate the heavy use of an HVAC system, it is wise to go ahead and upgrade to high-efficiency options. Some homeowners may choose these options when they purchase new construction or may wait until an existing mid-efficiency unit is near the end of its life. Homeowners in hotter climates like Gardendale, TX, often find that the initial higher costs of high-efficiency units pay for themselves through reductions in utility bills.
A high-efficiency furnace or air conditioning unit usually costs more upfront, but local utility companies may offer rebates if a person has them installed. These rebates can pay for some of the initial higher costs, and vendors may also have 12-month same-as-cash financing options available. High-efficiency furnace and air conditioning units can also add more resale value to a home and increase its attractiveness to energy-conscious buyers.
Indoor Air
Maintaining good air quality can be accomplished by having a home’s air ducts cleaned on a regular basis. Unless the home is brand new, the chances are the ducts are dirty and the home’s residents are breathing in that debris each time the air is circulated. This can be challenging for residents with allergies or other respiratory conditions and sensitivities.
Some cleaning companies will clean air ducts year-round, while others will offer seasonal specials in the fall and spring. HVAC vendors may also offer these types of services, including loyalty discounts for performing multiple services at the same time. If a home is a resale and was recently purchased, cleaning the air ducts and dryer vent is highly recommended.
Looking for trained technicians in Gardendale, TX, that deliver high-quality, on-time services? Call us today!