Heating maintenance is preventative care that includes a full heating system inspection, cleaning, and even small repairs. It’s good for every home, and homeowners should schedule their heating maintenance appointment in the fall before the cold weather hits.

Trio Heating, Air, & Plumbing is available to service your home heating system so you can rest easy knowing your heater will keep your family warm all winter long. We’re San Francisco locals, so we understand how the winter chill can set into your home. You need a furnace that works well — we’re here to help ensure your heating system always runs at peak performance. 

The Importance of Annual Heating Maintenance

Annual heating maintenance is the best way to keep your furnace running at peak performance. It allows your professional HVAC technician the chance to look over the entire system and find and fix any small issues before they become a big deal. This can save your furnace from catastrophic failure mid-winter and help prevent thousands of dollars in repairs or replacement costs. 

Annual heating maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your heating system. In some cases, scheduling annual heating maintenance calls can make all the difference between your furnace lasting only eight years or more than twenty. 

Cleaning out grime and fixing small issues reduces wear and tear and keeps your heating system running efficiently. A clean furnace uses less power or fuel to do its job, saving you on your energy bills and reducing your home’s environmental impact, even if your furnace is on 24/7.

Consequences of Skipping Heating Maintenance

What happens if you ignore your furnace and don’t maintain your heating system? If you skip heating maintenance, blast the heat all winter long, and hope for the best, you’ll likely notice your furnace starting to have difficulty maintaining a consistent temperature in your home. It might be cold in one room and hot in another, or the furnace will turn on and off quickly without thoroughly heating the space. 

You may also notice bad smells from your vents and more dust around the house. Your indoor air quality might worsen, with more allergens, pollen, and mold spores getting dispersed through the vents. 

Over time, smaller problems like a loose belt or faulty valve can become big issues requiring extensive (and costly) repairs. Your furnace may even fail, leaving you in the cold. Depending on the weather, this can also lead to burst pipes in your home.  

If you have a gas furnace, neglecting maintenance is dangerous. A small issue can grow until it causes a gas leak, and your furnace may become a fire hazard over time if certain internal systems fail. 

If you never have your furnace professionally maintained, you may be in danger of voiding your HVAC system’s warranty. Most mandate that the service life of the furnace depends on regular tune-ups.

Key Steps for Preparing Your Heating System for Winter

If you keep a winter checklist for home maintenance, make sure to include the following heating system preparation steps:

1. Do a filter check, and replace or wash the filter if it’s been in place for over 90 days or looks dirty.
2. Test your thermostat by turning on the heat, then slowly raising the temperature in five-degree increments. If the furnace doesn’t quickly kick on and start heating the home, you may need an expert to find the issue.
3. Look for water leaks around the furnace. This is a common problem with high-efficiency models, and the water can damage the furnace or even cause mold to grow in your house if it’s not addressed. Call an HVAC professional to fix the leak.
4. Listen closely to the furnace when it’s on, and call an expert if it starts making squeaking, clicking, squealing, banging, or booming sounds. These can indicate small problems or dangerous issues, so addressing them quickly is a good idea. 

If you have a gas furnace, you should also have the pilot light, flame sensor, and gas lines checked out by an expert to ensure your system is safe. 

Benefits of Professional Heating Maintenance Services

The benefits of hiring Trio for heating maintenance include:

• Improved home comfort and safety, with efficient heat all winter long
• Less stress, knowing your heating system is working at its best
• Lower heat bills and fewer costly repairs 
• Better air quality, with fewer allergens, mold spores, and other nasty particulates in the air you and your family breathe
• Staying within the terms of your furnace’s warranty 
• Trustworthy service — you can count on us to show up on time with good quality parts

How Annual Maintenance Saves You Money in the Long Run

One of the biggest heating maintenance benefits is the money you’ll save. Keeping your furnace running at its best means you’ll have more efficient heating throughout your home, better air quality, and lower energy bills.

HVAC maintenance is necessary to prolong the service life of your furnace and keep you on good terms with the unit’s warranty. 

When It’s Time to Upgrade Your Heating System

Unsure if it’s time to upgrade your heating system to a newer model? Here are some of the biggest signs it’s time to replace your current system:

• Uneven heat throughout your home or no heat coming from the vents at all
• Higher-than-usual energy bills as the furnace starts running less efficiently 
• Your furnace is over 10 years old 
• Loud noises when the furnace is running, including rattling, popping, screeching, or humming.
• Issues starting up, like when a gas furnace doesn’t ignite the gas properly
• Parts are harder to find because the furnace model is outdated
• Repair bills are getting out of hand 

Installing a new furnace may be less expensive than repairs in the long term. It’s better to upgrade your furnace before it possibly breaks down in the dead of winter. In that case, you may be without heat until a technician can do the replacement, leaving you vulnerable to burst pipes and discomfort in a cold house.

A new furnace also comes with plenty of benefits, like programmable thermostat options, smart-home integration, and fast, efficient heating you’ll love.

Contact Trio for Your Annual Heating Maintenance

Trio is here to provide annual heating maintenance and any other services you need for your HVAC system. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and we’ll show you why we’re known for providing the top heating and air services in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Book your annual heating maintenance appointment now so you can be confident that your home heat system is in peak condition when the temperature drops.

As the winter chill sets in across the San Francisco Bay Area, your home’s heating system must be ready to keep your family warm and comfortable. At Trio Heating and Air, we understand that proper heating maintenance is crucial for ensuring your safety and peace of mind, especially during the coldest months of the year. Follow this comprehensive guide to walk through everything you need to know about winter heating maintenance, helping you keep your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently all winter.

Importance of Winter Heating Maintenance

Regular heating maintenance is more than just a recommended practice — it’s essential for the longevity and performance of your home’s HVAC system. Preventative maintenance helps to identify and remedy issues that may otherwise lead to unexpected breakdowns. It also improves energy efficiency and can save you significant money in the long run. 

A well-maintained heating system:

• Reduces the risk of costly emergency repairs
• Improves overall energy efficiency
• Extends the service life of your heating equipment
• Ensures consistent and reliable performance
• Maintains optimal indoor air quality

Signs Your Heating System Needs Immediate Attention

Before winter reaches its peak, watch out for these critical red flags that may indicate your home’s heating system requires professional attention:

• Unusual noises, like banging, rattling, or squealing sounds
• Inconsistent heating, resulting in cold spots or uneven heating across different rooms
• Spikes in heating costs, pointing toward possible system inefficiency
• A heating system that frequently turns on and off for no apparent reason
• Unpleasant odors may indicate mold, mildew, gas leaks, or faulty electrical components

Winter Heating Maintenance Checklist: Step-by-Step Guide for DIY Tasks

While professional inspections and service are crucial, homeowners can follow these heating system maintenance tips to keep their HVAC working at its best.

Air filter maintenance

Regularly replacing or cleaning air filters is one of the easiest and most important DIY heating maintenance tasks. Dirty filters restrict airflow, reduce system efficiency, and can cause unnecessary strain on your heating system.

For most homes, replace disposable filters every few months or clean reusable filters once every month or two. Mark your calendar or set a reminder to ensure you don’t forget this step, particularly as part of your winter heating preparation routine.

Outdoor unit care

If you have any HVAC components that are outside of your home, be sure to keep the area around it clear of debris, leaves, branches, and snow. Maintain at least a two-foot clearance around the unit to ensure proper airflow and prevent potential damage. During winter, remove any snow or ice buildup carefully, avoiding direct contact with delicate components. 

Seal and insulate

Conduct a thorough check of all windows, doors, and other potential sources of air leaks. Use weatherstripping, caulk, or draft stoppers to seal any gaps that could let warm air escape. Pay special attention to areas around window frames and door thresholds. Proper sealing reduces your heating system’s workload and thus lowers your energy bills too.

Vent, register, and grille maintenance

As a homeowner, a regular part of your winter heating preparation checklist should include checking all air vents and registers to ensure they are completely unobstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains. Vacuum these areas regularly to remove dust and debris that can impede airflow. Use a soft brush attachment to clean vent covers and remove dust. 

Professional Heating Maintenance Checklist

Our expert heating technicians offer a comprehensive heating maintenance service. To keep your HVAC system operating at an optimal level, we recommend scheduling a heating maintenance call at least once a year. This can identify some of the most common heating system problems in winter, like malfunctioning thermostats, pilot light issues, dirty air filters, clogged air filters, duct leaks, and burning smells. 

Thorough system inspection

Our technicians meticulously examine every critical component of your heating system. We carefully check for signs of wear and tear, inspect electrical components for potential hazards, and assess overall system performance. This detailed evaluation identifies potential issues before they become major problems. 

Cleaning and optimization

Our cleaning service goes far beyond a simple surface wipe-down. To help maintain your heating system’s peak efficiency, we clean burners and heat exchangers, removing built-up dust, debris, and potential corrosion. We lubricate all moving parts to reduce friction and wear, which can significantly extend your system’s lifespan. Air filters are cleaned or replaced, as needed, as the thermostat is precisely calibrated.

Safety checks

Safety is our top priority. We check carbon monoxide levels, verify gas pressure and connections, and inspect the heat exchanger to look for any cracks or damage that could compromise system safety. We also verify proper ventilation to prevent any potential safety risks. 

Performance testing

As part of the regular heating maintenance checklist, our technicians measure the efficiency of your system, including airflow and temperature differentials, heating cycle operation, and energy consumption. We check for any irregularities in startup, running, and shutdown processes, ensuring your heating system operates reliably throughout the winter months in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Benefits of Scheduling Professional Heating Maintenance

Investing in professional heating maintenance is crucially important for several reasons:

• Enhanced efficiency: A well-maintained heating system can improve energy efficiency, directly lowering your monthly utility bills.
• Preventative care: Detailed inspections can reveal potential issues before they become major problems requiring costly repairs or replacement.
• Extended system life: Regular maintenance can add years to your heating system’s usable lifespan.
• Improved comfort: Ensure consistent, reliable heating throughout your home all year round.

When to Replace Your Heating System

It’s never easy to decide that you need to replace your home’s heating system. It’s a decision that requires careful consideration. In most cases, age is one of the biggest factors. Most heating systems have an optimal lifespan of 15 to 20 years. However, age alone isn’t the only indicator. You must pay close attention to your system’s performance, efficiency, and repair frequency.

If you find yourself facing increasingly frequent and expensive repairs, it may be a more cost-effective choice to invest in a new, energy-efficient system. Rising energy bills, despite regular maintenance, can also signal it’s time to consider a replacement. Modern heating systems offer significant improvements in technology, energy efficiency, and overall home comfort.

Schedule Your Winter Heating Maintenance Today! 

Don’t let the winter catch you unprepared. Protect your home, ensure your comfort, and save money with Trio Heating & Air’s professional heating maintenance services. 

Call Trio Heating & Air today at (415) 226-4125 or contact us online to schedule your professional heating maintenance service! We promise prompt customer service and are dedicated to delivering superior work with every job.

Aside from an annual tune-up, the HVAC professionals at Trio Heating & Air recommend various DIY heating maintenance steps. Heating accounts for a significant portion of your home utility costs. Therefore, it’s important to keep your heater in top shape. You don’t need to be a heating service contractor or have one with you at all times; the following heating maintenance tips ensure your furnace is safe to operate, keeps your home warm, and runs at peak efficiency:

Replace or Clean the Air Filter

Clear Any Clutter Around Your Furnace

Vacuum the Supply and Return Vents

Check that the Burner Flame Is Blue

Adjust the Dampers Seasonally

Replace the Batteries on Your Thermostat and Carbon Monoxide Detector

Check for Vent or Chimney Blockages

Clean Your Whole-House Humidifier

1. Replace or Clean the Air Filter

Replacing or cleaning the air filter is one of the easiest heating maintenance tasks. Check the owner’s manual for its location, how to access it, and what type and size you need. The correct size may be labeled on the filter. Or, you can measure it to find one with the same dimensions. Also, make sure the filter’s efficiency rating is compatible with your heating system.

Remember to replace the main air filter and any filters in the air intake or blower. Generally, filters should be cleaned or replaced every one to three months. However, this depends on their type and quality and heater usage. A clean filter can improve your furnace’s efficiency and increase its lifespan.

2. Clear Any Clutter Around Your Furnace

The area surrounding your furnace should be clear. Storage boxes, containers, cleaning supplies, tools, toys, and other belongings can restrict airflow and make it harder to access your heating system. Cleaning the clutter helps a technician more easily service the unit and its components. It can also help your furnace work more efficiently.

3. Vacuum the Supply and Return Vents

Registers and vents move a lot of air and can collect dust in the process. If not cleaned, they can become blocked, restricting airflow. A lack of airflow can cause reduced heat production, uneven heating, or less air to get to your furnace, which can cause it to perform less effectively. Increased strain can also damage your heating system. 

To avoid trouble, regularly check supply and return vents for dust and blockages. Dust can be brushed or vacuumed away. If any furniture, boxes, cabinets, or toys are blocking vents, move these items to another location so air can flow freely.

4. Check that the Burner Flame Is Blue

The burner flame may be visible through a small glass window or you may have to turn off the furnace and open the cover. The burner flame, or flames, depending on your furnace, should be a vibrant blue hue. A yellow or orange flame is a sign of a combustion problem. It can also mean your heater is leaking carbon monoxide.

Do not attempt to clean, adjust, or repair furnace burners yourself. Contact a professional who’s equipped to safely repair the unit, avoid hazards, and prevent further issues.

5. Adjust the Dampers Seasonally

If the same ductwork serves your heating and cooling systems, it may have dampers. These should be adjusted for each season. This way, the damper on the supply trunk can allow more warm air to lower levels in winter and more cold air upstairs in the warmer months. 

To adjust the dampers, follow the markers on them, the duct walls, or a nearby control. The proper adjustments improve heating system efficiency and avoid performance issues.

6. Replace the Batteries on Your Thermostat and Carbon Monoxide Detector

If it’s battery-operated, a thermostat won’t work properly if its power source is drained. Your heating system can also malfunction. Changing the batteries once a year can prevent issues. The carbon monoxide detector’s batteries should also be changed. While this won’t affect furnace performance, it’ll alert you of a toxic gas leak caused by a potential furnace problem.

7. Check for Vent or Chimney Blockages

The chimney flue vents toxic gases produced during the combustion process. Holes, gaps, or blockages can prevent carbon dioxide and other gases from exiting your home. Check the connection between the flue and furnace for damage and outside vents where vegetation, animal nests, snow, and debris can cause blockages. Clearing debris can avoid indoor air quality and furnace performance issues.

8. Clean Your Whole-House Humidifier

If your HVAC system has a whole-house humidifier, it must be properly maintained. First, determine what type of humidifier you have. The two types often used in homes include the following:

• Evaporative Humidifier: An evaporative humidifier has a pad that soaks up water; this pad must be replaced at least once a year. After you remove the old pad, wipe the interior of the humidifier cabinet to ensure it’s dry, and use a vinegar solution to remove dirt and mineral deposits from the water supply and drain lines.
• Steam Humidifier: A steam humidifier boils water to increase indoor humidity. To maintain it, turn off the humidifier and wait for it to complete a drain cycle. Remove the overflow pan and tank; clean them with a vinegar solution. Then remove the O-ring from the tank and clean the orifice. The O-ring should be replaced if it’s worn or damaged.

Heating Maintenance Tasks You Should Not Do Yourself

Do not perform any task that requires accessing the interior of your furnace. You risk causing damage to sensitive components. For example, many DIY help guides explain how to clean the combustion chamber, burners, flame sensors, blower, etc. These should always be free of buildup. However, only a well-trained, properly equipped professional should attempt to clean them.

Also, call an HVAC company if you notice issues such as a cracked heat exchanger, corroded parts, excessive soot, irregular flames, short cycling, a leak, or unusual odors.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

When you need a furnace tune-up, we provide high-quality work and can service any brand or model. Customers in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area rely on us to keep their heating systems in top shape. Our technicians are professionally trained, knowledgeable, and courteous while being committed to ensuring your home is safe and comfortable. To schedule heating maintenance, book your appointment or call (415) 226-4125 today.

A winter maintenance checklist helps ensure your heating system is ready for high demand during the colder months. Without one, subtle signs your furnace isn’t working correctly can be missed. Dirt, leaks, and mechanical or electrical issues can lead to bigger problems. However, DIY and professional heating maintenance can avoid an emergency, furnace breakdown, or costly repair or replacement.

Below is a winter maintenance checklist that includes DIY tips and tasks a professional performs during an annual heater tune-up:

Home Heating Maintenance Checklist

It’s important to avoid disassembling or tinkering with your furnace. However, the following steps are safe for any homeowner to follow:

• Check the Filter: Generally, an HVAC filter should be replaced every 30 to 90 days, as a buildup of dust, dander, and other airborne particles can block airflow. A fresh filter can improve efficiency and reduce wear and tear on your furnace.
• Inspect the Pilot System: If your furnace has a pilot light, it can work only if the flame is lit. Turn off the power to the system and wait a few minutes so the gas has safely dissipated. Then, open the front cover and check the flame. If it’s out, press the reset switch and relight it by holding a match or lighter over the pilot light opening. 

Call a professional if the pilot light can’t be relit or the flame is yellow.

• Check the Flame Sensor: In a gas-powered furnace, the flame sensor registers when the gas valve is open, allowing the system to run. A malfunctioning sensor can affect temperature regulation, furnace safety, and energy costs. If the sensor is dirty or damaged, call a local heating contractor to clean or replace it.
• Test the Thermostat: To determine if your thermostat is working, set it to “Heat” mode and raise the temperature setting by 5℉ to 10℉. The furnace should quickly start up. If not, the thermostat may be malfunctioning or have faulty wiring and must be repaired. 
• Check for Gas Line Issues: The gas line should be inspected at least once a year. Start with the shut-off valve and check for any damage. A propane or rotten egg smell means you have a gas leak. Call for help immediately if there’s an odor or you hear a hissing sound.
• Inspect the Heating Unit for Leaks: A water leak from a furnace is a common problem, especially if you have a high-efficiency model. Leaks can originate from a clogged drain line, a damaged condensate drain pan, or a faulty humidifier. If it’s leaking, your furnace can be severely damaged. The problem can also lead to mold, so call a heating repair professional.
• Listen to Your Furnace: Call a repair company if the unit is making booming, squealing, clicking, and other strange sounds.

Non-Furnace Heating Maintenance Tips

Your winter maintenance checklist should go beyond your furnace. Here are various tasks that can help your heating system work more smoothly and efficiently:

• Check Air Vents: Clean any air vents clogged by dust or debris. Also, move any furniture, draperies, or boxes placed in front of a vent. Make sure all return and supply registers are open as well.
• Look for Duct Leaks: Inspect visible ductwork for signs of air leakage, such as holes, tears, and loose connections. Small holes can be sealed with mastic. Call a professional to handle more significant issues. 
• Seal Windows and Doors: Leaks from window and door frames can cause heat loss, strain your furnace, and increase energy costs. Light a candle near frames to find drafts. They can be sealed with caulking, plastic, or weatherstripping. You can also use heavier draperies or curtains to cover windows.
• Check/Improve Insulation: In The Bay Area, insulation should have an R-value of R38 if your attic is insulated or R49 if it’s uninsulated. Add insulation to any drafty areas and replace torn or missing insulating materials. You can cover pipes with tubular insulation to prevent freezing and bursting.
• Clean the Gutters: Check your roof gutters throughout the winter and remove any snow, ice, or debris. Melting snow can freeze in the gutters, blocking drainage and causing roof damage. This can lead to temperature control issues and water damage to your home and outdoor HVAC unit.

Schedule an Annual Tune-Up

A local HVAC contractor should inspect and service your heating system every fall. During an annual tune-up, they will follow a professional winter maintenance checklist that includes the following:

• Vacuum the Inside of the Unit: A technician has the knowledge and equipment to safely access internal components and clear dust and debris.
• Inspect Vent and Flue Pipes: Properly inspecting these and removing any obstructions prevents backdrafts and other hazards.
• Clean the Burners: Dirty burners must be removed and cleaned. Once reinstalled, clean burners contribute to more efficient heat transfer.
• Check for Gas Line Leaks: A gas leak can trigger a fire or explosion and expose you to toxic fumes. Inspecting gas lines ensures your furnace is safe to operate.
• Check/Adjust the Fan Switch: This ensures optimal air velocity, which impacts comfort and efficiency. The fan switch may need to be adjusted if you upgrade the air filter.
• Adjust the Pilot Light (If Necessary): The right setting avoids false sensor readings. Burners can also ignite more efficiently.
• Lubricate Bearings and Other Moving Parts: Lubricating internal components reduces friction and allows your furnace to operate more smoothly.
• Tighten Fan Belts and Pulleys: A heating technician checks fan belts and pulleys and tightens them if necessary, which prevents them from breaking and damaging other components.
• Inspect Wiring and Electrical Components: Loose connections are tightened, and damaged wiring is replaced to avoid furnace failure or a fire.
• Clean the Humidifier: If your heating system has a built-in humidifier, the contractor inspects and cleans it.
• Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: The technician makes sure the alarms are working and replaces the batteries if necessary.

Schedule Heating Maintenance with Trio Heating & Air

We are a leading HVAC company in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Our licensed technicians follow a comprehensive winter maintenance checklist to ensure your furnace is working properly. They take steps to improve efficiency, prevent breakdowns, and increase equipment lifespan. Trio is committed to delivering professional air conditioning and heating services and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Continue browsing to learn about what furnace cleaning costs. To schedule winter heating maintenance, book your appointment or call (415) 532-2984 today.

Ignoring AC maintenance recommendations is a bad idea. Air conditioning specialists suggest having your system inspected, cleaned, adjusted and, if necessary, repaired annually to avoid problems. Your AC unit works hard to provide cool air, especially during the warmer months. It’s best to schedule routine air conditioning service before the heat sets in. If you don’t get AC maintenance before then, it increases the risk of the following issues:

Reduced Efficiency/Higher Energy Bills

Without regular care, reduced AC efficiency is a sure bet. The issues a technician would address can cause a unit to work harder, which uses more energy and raises utility bills. Professionals in the HVAC industry have estimated that efficiency can decrease up to 5% each year you skip AC maintenance. This means the unit will become increasingly more expensive to operate.

More AC Repairs

A lack of maintenance can lead to more frequent breakdowns, emergency calls, and repairs. These cost you money each time, not just to repair/replace worn components But also the cost of labor and other service fees. 

System cleanings, adjustments, and minor fixes help resolve issues rather than let them worsen over time. With a well-maintained unit, you can avoid most of the repairs you’d otherwise need. And, rather than spending money to fix your AC, you can save it for a home improvement or a vacation.

Shorter AC Lifespan

In addition to frequent repairs, skipping maintenance can lead to breakdowns that require replacing the unit much sooner. The more parts that wear out, the more inefficient the unit will become. Eventually, the entire system wears out prematurely. An AC with no maintenance may last 7 or 8 years. If well-maintained, it can last 10 to 15 years or longer, so you spend much less on AC equipment over time.

Decreased Cooling Performance

Long before an unmaintained air conditioner fails, it will continue running but become less effective at cooling your home. You might have to keep setting the thermostat lower to stay comfortable. Eventually, cold air may be hard to come by and the AC starts blowing warm air no matter the setting. Or, the temperature may fluctuate randomly and some rooms may be chilly while others are warm. These issues can occur for various reasons; AC maintenance usually prevents them.

Poor Indoor Air Quality 

Dirty air is another reason HVAC maintenance is necessary. Without routine service, your AC can get dirty quickly. Regular service includes cleaning various components so dust, dirt, and other pollutants don’t get into the air. Once they do, these can circulate throughout your home again and again. 

The contaminants in your airflow can include pollen, dust mites, chemicals from cleaning products, smoke, and volatile organic compounds from carpets, furniture, and other items. A lack of AC maintenance can also prevent the system from removing moisture, so increased humidity contributes to indoor air quality concerns, leading to anything from discomfort to allowing mold and germs to thrive.

Improved air quality is certainly a reason to follow your HVAC contractor’s recommendations. However, it must also be addressed between maintenance visits with the following:

• Replace air filters every 1 to 3 months
• Vacuum dust and pet dander regularly
• Open kitchen and bathroom vents
• Open windows to let a fresh breeze in
• Choose natural cleaning products

Clogged Air Filters

A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and cause your AC to shut down. Changing or cleaning the filter, depending on the type, is one of the easiest AC maintenance tasks you can do. It is also among the most beneficial. 

A dirty filter not only increases strain on components, but the impacts of reduced airflow and performance can cause the coil to freeze, leading to melting water that can damage your AC and home. Other risks include mold, an overheated compressor, and broken coils.

Water Leaks

If the drain line becomes blocked, moisture the system has removed can back up and leak around your air conditioner. Water can damage your AC, furnishings, flooring, and the underlying framing. Fixing water damage is often expensive. It can also lead to extensive mold problems. Flushing the drain line and cleaning the drain pan doesn’t take long and can save you lots of time and money.

Refrigerant Leaks

If a hissing noise or chemical smell accompanies reduced AC performance, a refrigerant leak is likely. The leak will reduce refrigerant levels until the system can’t absorb heat and transfer it out of your home. It may also expose you to a toxic substance that can cause:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Breathing issues
• Loss of consciousness 
• Death 

Therefore, AC maintenance can save your life.

Dirty Air Ducts

Once dirt gets into air ducts, it can stick to surfaces, increasing friction and reducing airflow. Or, it can get blown around. Dust can collect on vents and blow into rooms, where it can be inhaled, settle on surfaces, or get sucked back into your HVAC system via return vents. 

Whistling noises are a sign of dirty air ducts. You’ll need a professional duct cleaning to address the problem. Otherwise, serious damage to the system can occur. Regular maintenance helps protect your ductwork and keep it clean.

Voided Warranty

Chances are, your AC manufacturer requires professional maintenance as part of its warranty terms. Skipping even one maintenance visit can void the warranty. You won’t realize the hassle this can cause until you have to pay out of pocket for a major AC repair. The cost of following AC maintenance recommendations is far less than dealing with this situation.

Schedule AC Maintenance with Trio Heating & Air

If you live in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, you can trust Trio Heating & Air for high-quality annual AC maintenance. Our licensed professionals follow a detailed process to increase efficiency, equipment lifespan, and indoor air quality. Just a small investment each year ensures your comfort all season. From filter replacement to air duct cleaning, we can handle any maintenance task and ensure you get the most out of your cooling system. To schedule air conditioning maintenance, book service online or call (415) 223-5615 today. 

When it’s winter in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, you probably don’t think about air conditioner maintenance. However, it’s a great time to schedule AC maintenance near you. We’ll explain why you should consider calling your local HVAC contractor for AC service and why they’d probably be happy to help.

If you listen to many HVAC professionals, you’ll hear a lot about the perks of scheduling spring AC maintenance. A spring tune-up ensures your air conditioning system is ready for peak demand during the summer. It also reduces the risk of cooling issues, breakdowns, and an emergency call to an HVAC company. But why wait until the spring? There’s no harm in getting annual maintenance over with in winter.

Here are some of the benefits of booking AC maintenance near The Greater San Francisco Bay Area now:

AC Contractors Have More Flexible Availability

The closer you wait until summer, the busier the company will be. Most people will schedule AC maintenance around the same time, so your options for an appointment date will be limited. If you request maintenance when there are fewer requests, the contractor may be able to send a technician at a more convenient time. This means they can work around your schedule, so there’s less stress involved in getting your AC tuned up.

It Can Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Scheduling AC maintenance in the winter means you can breathe easier earlier in the season. Even while not in use, the unit may accumulate dust and dirt. These will start circulating as soon as you turn the air conditioner on. 

Whether you’ve changed the air filter recently or not, a technician can find ways to improve indoor air quality and help your AC system run more smoothly. For example, they can talk about and give you time to consider duct cleaning. Or, they can install an air scrubber or whole-house purification system.

You Have Time to Plan AC Replacement

If you have an older AC unit, servicing it long before the cooling season lets a contractor weigh whether it’s worth keeping. Replacing an AC requires many considerations. Purchasing a new one in a rush when the old one fails can result in making poor decisions. To ensure you pick an AC that’s the right type, size, and efficiency for your home (and get it installed in time), you want to be proactive. The HVAC company can also help you weigh alternative options like a heat pump.

Maximize Your Savings on Energy Usage

Having your AC system cleaned, inspected, tuned up, and repaired (if necessary) now means it will run at peak efficiency starting the first day. Therefore, you can maximize your energy savings. Maintenance includes tightening loose parts and connections, lubricating moving parts, and clearing the space around the condenser. A technician can also provide duct cleaning and sealing and check for and address any electrical issues. 

On the other hand, waiting until halfway through summer for a tune-up can mean paying higher energy bills instead of saving money toward a vacation (or at least a good meal at a restaurant). 

Heat Pumps Require Biannual Maintenance

A heat pump provides heating and cooling, so it runs year-round. Therefore, the system requires maintenance in the spring and fall. But there’s no rule saying you can’t get it over with in winter. It can help lower your energy bills starting right away. 

And, if a technician finds any issues, they can fix them so your heat pump won’t break down anytime soon, nor will you be in for a surprise when you switch to cooling mode and realize the reversing valve isn’t working. A contractor can find a stuck or faulty valve and fix or replace it before you need cool air.

Should My AC Be Covered All Winter?

You don’t need to cover your AC for the winter. It’s better not to. The metal casing is not affected by snow or rain. Downsides to covering an AC, as some experts recommend, include moisture retention, mold, and rust. Small animals can also find it easier to nest inside the unit if it’s covered.

If you want to protect your AC with a cover, do so in the fall when leaves, twigs, and debris are more likely to fall on it and get inside. During maintenance, these will be cleared anyway, so there’s no reason to cover the unit for long. If you do, use an air conditioner cover and cover only the top.

Schedule AC Maintenance Near You with Trio Heating & Air

Homeowners in the The Greater San Francisco Bay Area area can depend on Trio Heating & Air for professional AC maintenance. Our team provides routine service to improve energy efficiency, increase the lifespan of HVAC equipment, and ensure you are comfortable and benefit from good indoor air quality. We make sure your air conditioning system runs flawlessly when you need it the most. To schedule an AC maintenance appointment before the cooling season, book an appointment online or call (415) 234-4728.