One of the most important systems to maintain in your home is the HVAC system. HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning and makes up mechanical systems in your home like furnaces, boilers, electric heat pumps, air conditioners, and ductwork.
When you regularly keep your HVAC system running efficiently, you avoid costly repairs down the road and save on energy bills.
According to folks at This Old House, some of the most common HVAC problems that homeowners face include:
- Dirty air filters
- Dirty condenser or evaporator coils
- Ignition problems
- Leaking water
- Thermostat malfunction
- Tripped circuit breakers
- Wear and tear
- Unusual noises
There are some things you can do yourself to keep your HVAC system running smoothly:
- Change the HVAC filter regularly
- Keep the area around your HVAC unit clean
- Don’t block the airflow to the HVAC unit
- Monitor your energy bills
- Seal any leaks around the HVAC unit
Because HVAC units can cost thousands of dollars and you want them to remain in working order for a long time, it’s recommended you hire a professional HVAC technician to perform routine maintenance.
Hiring an HVAC technician will help reduce the likelihood of breakdowns and bigger repairs down the road. You can often find a company that lets you sign up for annual, bi-annual, or quarterly service visits. Among the things a qualified HVAC technician will check include:
- Inspecting motor operations, filters, fins, belts, and refrigerant levels
- Testing safety controls, thermostat functionality, and carbon monoxide levels
- Cleaning coils, drains, and burners
- Lubricating all moving parts
- Tightening electrical connections
The cost for service can vary, depending on your HVAC system and how often you have it done. Some annual maintenance plans can cost between $75 and $150. Bi-annual plans can cost between $150 and $300.
In addition to keeping your HVAC system properly maintained, experts also recommend using a smart or digital thermostat. These thermostats can be controlled with your smartphone or tablet and can help you save on your heating and electric bills. The thermostats not only allow you to control the temperature when you’re not home, but they can notify you of maintenance needs and energy usage. Some energy companies even offer rebates or discounts for switching from a traditional thermostat.
Will homeowner’s insurance cover a damaged HVAC unit?
If your HVAC unit is not working due to general wear and tear, you will not be covered under your standard homeowner’s insurance. The unit may be covered by theft or if a windstorm, fire, or a fallen tree damages it.
If you’re not sure what your policy covers, your independent agent can go over it with you and add on any coverages you may need. And if you’re not yet insured with MAPFRE, you can always get a fast, free home insurance quote online in Massachusetts today to see how much you could save!
