The Stiles Blog

When it comes to your HVAC system, regular maintenance is key. A properly-maintained air conditioner can last for approximately 14 years, and a properly-maintained furnace can last for 15-20 years. You want to make sure your HVAC system is working properly and efficiently for your family’s comfort and safety all year long and for many years to come. How can you do that and protect your investment? By getting an HVAC maintenance plan. Here are five reasons why homeowners should invest in an HVAC maintenance plan.

Convenience

Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance appointments can easily slip your mind as a busy homeowner with everything else you have going on in your life, professionally and personally. The convenience of an HVAC maintenance plan is pre-scheduled appointments, so you don’t have to remember to get your furnace or air conditioner inspected and cleaned regularly by an HVAC professional.

We recommend having your HVAC system checked professionally twice a year (in the spring before using the air conditioner for the first time and in the fall before using the furnace for the first time). An HVAC maintenance plan comes with two HVAC maintenance visits per year for your system, and we will contact you to schedule these appointments at your convenience. No need for you to remember to do this!

Preventative maintenance

During a maintenance appointment, our NATE-certified technicians ensure your HVAC system is running smoothly (NATE stands for North American Technician Excellence, the leading program for certification of technicians in the HVAC industry). The technician will:

• • Inspect the unit and its wiring;
  • Clean and lubricate all unit components as needed;
  • Check the fuel line and fuel levels;
  • Test the pilot light and calibrate pressure in the fuel line;
  • Clean all portions of the fuel line and pilot light mechanism;
  • Calibrate the unit, so that it provides reliable, efficient service; and
  • Identify any potential mechanical issues or repair needs.

Even if everything is working well, this kind of preventative HVAC maintenance is important for the life of your system, addressing any issues before they turn into expensive repairs or replacements. Besides identifying worn or broken parts early and reducing your repair needs, preventative HVAC maintenance means your system will last longer and will run more efficiently.

Lower energy bills

When your HVAC system is dirty and not properly maintained, airflow is restricted, causing your entire HVAC system to work harder and use more energy. Regular HVAC maintenance can save you money on your energy bill because it makes your heating and cooling more efficient and ensures your HVAC system is working at its highest capacity, which lowers your energy bills.

Peace of mind

Knowing your air conditioner or furnace will operate properly and efficiently when you need them most (the heat of summer and the cold of winter) gives you peace of mind that you won’t run into an emergency situation. Want more peace of mind? Your HVAC maintenance technician checks your equipment to be sure it’s not in a compromised condition that could potentially cause a house fire or put your family at risk for carbon monoxide in your home.

Fixed cost and discounts

By signing up for an HVAC maintenance plan, you lock in at a fixed plan price. You can budget for this expense, and it will not be increased. Stiles Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing offers two maintenance plans:

• The Two Star plan includes two HVAC maintenance visits per year and a 15 percent discount on all labor and materials for repairs.
• The Three Star plan includes two HVAC maintenance visits per year in addition to full coverage of your equipment, both labor and materials.

Please note: Repairs on equipment over 15 years old are billed at a normal rate minus a 50 percent discount, and our maintenance plans exclude major repairs (e.g., ductwork, compressors, heat exchangers, condensers and evaporator coils).

In addition, an HVAC maintenance plan ensures you won’t miss out on these other great benefits:

• Better home comfort control
• Stronger circulation of air
• Access to the latest information about trends in HVAC technology
• Assistance in planning for the eventual replacement of system components
• Help with home performance and indoor air quality questions

Contact Stiles Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing to get help choosing the right maintenance plan for your family’s needs and budget. Your next HVAC maintenance appointment will be scheduled, so your system is ready when you need it most. You can also schedule a maintenance appointment without committing to a maintenance plan.