Is HVAC Maintenance Worth It? Uncover the Benefits & Costs

Understanding HVAC Maintenance

Why is HVAC Maintenance Important?

Whether a technician installs a new HVAC system or performs a repair service, you’ll likely be offered an HVAC maintenance plan agreement when the job is complete. An HVAC maintenance package may sound great on paper, but you may wonder if the cost will be worth it. While maintenance packages seemingly cost more upfront, it can be an investment worth making. There are many advantages to paying for a maintenance package that keep your HVAC system running smoothly year round – and actually saves you money in the long run. 

Benefits of Regular HVAC Maintenance

Regular HVAC preventative maintenance ensures your heating and cooling systems’ reliability, efficiency, and safety. Neglecting routine HVAC maintenance can lead to various costly and inconvenient problems. Here are some of the benefits the maintenance offers: 

Ensures System Reliability

HVAC systems are complex machines with many components. When these are not regularly inspected and maintained, small issues can escalate into major failures, often when it’s most inconvenient. The cost of emergency repairs without a maintenance agreement can be significantly higher than the cost of routine maintenance, and the inconvenience of being without heating or cooling can be substantial. Regular maintenance helps detect early signs of wear and tear, such as worn-out belts, loose connections, or corrosion, before they cause larger problems.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Even if your HVAC system appears to be running smoothly, it may not be operating at its best. Dirt filters, clogged coils, and other neglected components force the system to work harder to achieve the same level of comfort. This increases your energy bills and puts additional strain on the system, leading to further wear and tear. Over time, the reduced efficiency can result in significantly higher operational costs or issues like frozen heat pumps, prematurely worn components, and more. Regular maintenance ensures your system is professionally calibrated for efficiency, and coils, filters and other components are cleaned of dust and debris buildup for improved performance. 

Cost Savings on Repairs & Energy Bills

Minor issues easily addressed during routine maintenance can become major problems if left unattended. For example, a small refrigerant leak that could have been fixed inexpensively can cause compressor failure, requiring costly repairs or even a full system replacement. The money you invest up front for the maintenance plan can help keep costs low by preventing larger repairs, early system replacement, and improving system efficiency to keep utility costs down.

Enhanced Air Quality

Safety is a concern with HVAC systems, particularly those that use natural gas or other fuels. For example, a gas furnace that is not regularly inspected can develop cracks in the heat exchanger, leading to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. Electrical components left unchecked can become faulty and pose a fire risk. 

Additionally, your HVAC system is crucial in maintaining indoor air quality. When filters, coils, and other components are not regularly cleaned and maintained, they can become breeding grounds for dust, mold, and other allergens. The poor indoor air quality can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, posing health risks to you and your family.

Regular maintenance ensures your system operates safely and cleanly, reducing the risk of safety and health hazards. 

Compliance with Warranty Requirements

Many HVAC manufacturers require proof of regular maintenance to honor warranty claims. Failing to schedule routine maintenance can void your warranty, meaning you will have to bear the full cost of repairs or replacements that would otherwise be covered. Regular routine check-ups ensure you adhere to manufacturer guidelines to stay compliant with warranty terms and provide consistent proof of proper care should you need to submit a warranty claim, protecting your investment.

Extended System Lifespan

HVAC systems are a significant investment. Neglecting maintenance accelerates the system’s aging process – components wear out faster, forcing the system to operate under more stressful conditions and resulting in early system replacement. Routine maintenance minimizes wear and tear through cleaning and adjustments that reduce strain on components to help them last longer. Technicians also address any minor issues early, preventing them from developing into major, costly repairs or replacements.

How Often Should HVAC Systems be Maintained?

HVAC preventative maintenance should be performed at least twice a year, ideally once in the spring and once in the fall. These seasonal check-ups ensure that your system is prepared to handle the demands of summer cooling and winter heating efficiently. 

Seasonal Maintenance Tips

Spring maintenance focuses on preparing your air conditioning system for the hot months ahead, ensuring it’s clean, charged with refrigerant, and operating correctly. Fall HAVC maintenance is crucial for your heating system, ensuring all components function properly and safely before the cold weather arrives. In addition to these bi-annual check-ups, it’s also beneficial to perform monthly tasks, such as changing or cleaning air filters, to support your system running smoothly year-round.

Speaking with an experienced HVAC professional is the best way to determine maintenance frequency. Depending on unique factors such as system usage, they may advise more frequent visits or specific services. 

Choosing the Right HVAC Maintenance Plan

What Is An HVAC Maintenance Plan?

Simply put, when you purchase an HVAC maintenance plan, you pay a fee to the HVAC servicing company, which provides ongoing services to maintain system efficiency. 

At Jack Lehr, maintenance agreements include:

• System checkups and tune-ups
• Seasonal maintenance
• Priority service
• 24-hour emergency service
• Free or discounted repairs
• Parts and labor discounts
• Two-year warranty on all repairs

Plans are offered in multiple tiers to fit the needs of every homeowner.

What to Look For in a Maintenance Plan

Choosing the right HVAC maintenance plan is crucial to ensure your system receives the best care. Here are the key elements to look for in a comprehensive maintenance plan: 

• Comprehensive Coverage: A good maintenance plan should cover all essential components and services needed for your HVAC system’s upkeep. This includes seasonal inspections, cleaning services, and tune-ups. 
• Priority Service: Maintenance plans that offer priority service can be extremely beneficial. Look for plans that offer faster response times and access to emergency services without additional fees. 
• Discounts on Repairs & Parts: A valuable maintenance plan often includes discounts on repairs and replacement parts. Ensure the plan you choose offers reduced rates during your contract period and review included services offered at no additional cost.
• Detailed Documentation: Proper documentation is essential for maintaining your HVAC system’s warranty and service history. Your plan should provide detailed service records of all maintenance and repairs performed, as well as a comprehensive checklist of maintenance tasks performed during each visit. 
• Flexible Terms & Customization: The best maintenance plans offer flexibility to meet your specific needs. Look for customizable options that allow you to include specific services or focus on specific aspects of your system, as well as flexible payment options to ensure it fits within your budget.
• Reputation & Reviews: Choose a maintenance plan from a reputable provider with positive customer reviews. Ensure the provider has a solid track record and proven history of reliable service, and provides excellent customer service and support to address any concerns you may have.

Get the Most From Your HVAC Maintenance Plan with Jack Lehr

Jack Lehr Heating Cooling & Electric has been in business for over 50 years. Our NATE-certified technicians provide you with superior service from the moment you contact our office. We offer various maintenance packages, including two cooling and two heating packages, each offering you the choice of what matters most. 

Sign up for one of our comprehensive HVAC maintenance plans »

Our annual heating and cooling tune-ups help keep your HVAC system clean and working efficiently. Here at Jack Lehr Heating Cooling & Electric, we use only top-of-the-line products, helping to extend your system’s lifespan. We will leave your home as we found it, never leaving behind dirt or grime; we even wear shoe covers not to track dirt or debris into your home.

Contact our HVAC experts to discuss the different maintenance plans we offer and how we can help keep your HVAC system running smoothly.