How often should HVAC be serviced?
Have a contractor service your heating and cooling systems once a year, the cooling system in spring and the heating system in fall, and check your filters every month.
The yearly contractor visit
ENERGY STAR recommends annual pre-season check-ups by a contractor. It says to check the cooling system in the spring and the heating system in the fall.
For gas equipment, M.U.D. recommends having furnaces, fireplaces, water heaters, and other natural gas appliances inspected annually.
What you can do yourself
- Check, clean, or change air filters once a month in a central AC, furnace, or heat pump, per ENERGY STAR.
- During cooling season, the Department of Energy says to clean or replace the filter every month or two.
- Trim foliage back at least 2 feet from the outdoor unit and keep dirt and debris away from it, per the Department of Energy.
- Leave refrigerant, electrical, and gas work to a technician.
What a technician checks
The Department of Energy lists checking the evaporator coil every year and cleaning it as needed, checking for the correct amount of refrigerant, and testing for refrigerant leaks with a leak detector.
Why it matters
The Department of Energy says clogged, dirty filters reduce airflow and significantly reduce efficiency. Carrier says a clogged filter stresses the heat exchanger and blower motor. Lennox says annual maintenance from a certified professional helps a furnace last longer.
Carbon monoxide and gas smell
If you smell gas, leave the house right away and do not use switches, phones, or appliances inside. Call M.U.D. at 402.554.7777 or 911 from a safe place. Carbon monoxide symptoms are like the flu. If someone has them, call 911 immediately.
Book a tune-up
A local contractor can quote a tune-up or repair for free through this site. Use the link to get a free quote.
If something already stopped working, start with HVAC repair in Omaha.
Sources
Common questions
Is HVAC maintenance really necessary?
ENERGY STAR recommends annual pre-season check-ups, and M.U.D. recommends annual inspection of gas appliances. Neither promises a repair will never happen.
Can I do my own HVAC maintenance?
Filters are listed by ENERGY STAR as an action to do yourself. Refrigerant checks and leak testing are technician work, per the Department of Energy.
How often should I change my furnace filter?
ENERGY STAR says to inspect, clean, or change filters once a month. Check the size and type your system uses.