Month: April 2023

Your HVAC system is a pretty integral part of your home or business. It keeps you comfortable in all seasons and helps maintain indoor air quality. However, like any other system, your HVAC system requires regular maintenance to ensure that it is running efficiently and effectively. In this article, we’ll discuss how to know when to arrange an HVAC inspection.

Increased Energy Bills

One of the most obvious signs that you need an HVAC inspection is an increase in your energy bills. If your system is not running efficiently, it will use more energy to maintain the desired temperature. This can cause your energy bills to spike, even if you have not changed your usage patterns.

If you notice a sudden increase in your energy bills, it is a good idea to schedule an HVAC inspection. An experienced technician can identify any issues that may be causing your system to run less efficiently and recommend the necessary repairs or maintenance services.

Uneven Cooling or Heating

Another sign that you may need an HVAC inspection is uneven cooling or heating throughout your home or business. If some rooms feel too hot or too cold, it could signify that your system is not running efficiently. This can be due to various issues, such as clogged filters, faulty thermostats, or ductwork problems.

An HVAC inspection can help identify the root cause of the issue and recommend the necessary repairs or maintenance services. This can help ensure that your system is running efficiently and effectively, providing consistent and comfortable temperatures throughout your home or business.

Strange Noises or Odours

If you hear strange sounds or notice unusual odours coming from your HVAC system, it is a sign that something is wrong. These noises and odours can be caused by a variety of issues, such as loose parts, clogged filters, or mould growth.

It is important to schedule an HVAC inspection to identify the source of the issue and recommend the necessary repairs or maintenance services. Ignoring these signs can potentially lead to more serious problems down the line, such as system failure or indoor air quality issues.

Poor Indoor Air Quality

Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality. It helps filter out pollutants and allergens, such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. If you notice that your indoor air quality has decreased, it could be a sign that your HVAC system is not functioning properly.

An HVAC inspection can help identify any issues with your system that may be affecting indoor air quality. This can include clogged filters, ductwork issues, or mould growth. By addressing these issues, you can improve indoor air quality and promote a healthier living or working environment.

System Age

Finally, the age of your HVAC system is also a crucial factor to consider when deciding whether to arrange an HVAC inspection. Most HVAC systems have a lifespan of ten to 15 years, depending on the type of system and usage patterns. If your HVAC system is approaching or has exceeded its expected lifespan, it may be time to consider an inspection.

An experienced technician can evaluate the condition of your system and recommend any necessary repairs or maintenance services. They can also provide advice on whether it is time to replace your system with a newer, more efficient model.

Final Thoughts

There are several signs that indicate you need to arrange an HVAC inspection. These include increased energy bills, uneven cooling or heating, strange noises or odours, poor indoor air quality, and system age. By scheduling regular HVAC inspections, you can ensure that your system is running efficiently and effectively, providing comfortable temperatures and maintaining indoor air quality. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to schedule an inspection with an experienced technician who can identify any issues and recommend the necessary repairs or maintenance services.

Keep your HVAC system in good working condition with the help of Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning. We are an HVAC maintenance service in Oshawa that can help you be proactive in your maintenance. We provide a fast, friendly, cost-effective, and upfront customer service experience. Get a free quote today!

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are essential aspects of modern-day living. HVAC systems help regulate the temperature and air quality inside buildings, making them comfortable and safe for occupants. However, like any other machine, HVAC systems need maintenance to function correctly and efficiently. 

Regular maintenance ensures the system runs reliably, lowers energy bills, and prolongs lifespan. But when is the best time to schedule HVAC maintenance? This article will explore the optimal time to schedule HVAC maintenance.

The Importance of Regular HVAC Maintenance

Before we dive into the best time to schedule HVAC maintenance, let us first understand the importance of regular HVAC maintenance. HVAC systems have several components, including filters, coils, and fins, that require regular maintenance. Neglecting HVAC maintenance can lead to inefficiencies, breakdowns, and health hazards. For instance, dirty filters can cause poor air quality, leading to respiratory problems, while clogged coils can cause the system to overheat, leading to breakdowns. Regular HVAC maintenance by a professional technician can help prevent these issues, identify potential problems, and keep the system running efficiently.

Best Time to Schedule HVAC Maintenance

Now that we understand the importance of regular HVAC maintenance, let us explore the best time to schedule it. Typically, the best time to schedule HVAC maintenance is during the shoulder seasons, namely spring and fall. The weather is usually mild during these seasons, and the HVAC system is not working as hard. Therefore, scheduling maintenance during these seasons ensures the system is ready for the peak seasons: summer and winter.

Spring HVAC Maintenance

Spring is the best time to schedule HVAC maintenance for several reasons. First, spring weather is mild, neither too hot nor too cold, meaning the HVAC system is working less hard. This makes it the perfect time to clean or replace filters, coils, and fins, which tend to accumulate dirt and debris during the winter months. Spring maintenance also involves checking the refrigerant levels, which tend to drop during winter, and lubricating the motor bearings, which tend to dry out during winter. Additionally, spring maintenance ensures the system is ready for summer when it will work hard to keep the building cool.

Fall HVAC Maintenance

Fall is also an ideal time to schedule HVAC maintenance for several reasons. First, the fall weather is mild, and the HVAC system is not working as hard as it would during winter. This makes it easier for the technician to identify and fix potential problems before the peak winter season. Fall maintenance involves checking the heating system, including the furnace or heat pump, to ensure it works correctly. The technician will clean or replace any dirty filters, check the electrical connections, and lubricate the motor bearings. Additionally, fall maintenance ensures that the system is ready for winter when it works hard to keep the building warm.

Other Factors to Consider

While spring and fall are the best times to schedule HVAC maintenance, several other factors can influence the timing. For instance, if the HVAC system is heavily used, it may require frequent maintenance, regardless of the season. Also, the HVAC system may require more frequent maintenance if the building is in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as hot summers or cold winters. Additionally, if the HVAC system is relatively new, it may require less frequent maintenance than an older system.

Conclusion

Maintaining your HVAC system is essential to its performance and longevity. Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance is an important step in keeping your building comfortable, safe, and energy efficient. In this article, we explored the optimal time to schedule HVAC maintenance. It is important to schedule HVAC maintenance at least once per year.

Keep your home’s air quality and temperature checked with Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning’s HVAC maintenance services in Oshawa! Our experienced team will provide comprehensive maintenance, cleaning, and repairs to keep your system running at its best. Don’t wait – contact us today and experience the difference!

Any homeowner knows the importance of a well-functioning HVAC system in keeping their homes comfortable throughout the year. Your HVAC system regulates the temperature, removes humidity, and maintains the air quality in your home. 

However, just like any other appliance or equipment, your HVAC system can give warning signs that it needs help. Here are some indicators you need to look out for:

1. Unusual Noises

A well-functioning HVAC system should run smoothly and silently. If you notice any rattling, banging, or screeching sounds coming from your HVAC unit, this could indicate an issue. Loose or damaged parts, worn-out belts, or malfunctioning motors might cause these noises. Overlooking these sounds may result in more severe issues, potentially resulting in expensive repairs or even the need for a replacement.

2. Weak Airflow

Your home’s HVAC system needs enough air to keep the temperature comfortable. If you realize that the air from your vents is not strong enough, it could be because your air filters are dirty, your ducts have leaks, or your fans are not working properly. Weak airflow can make your HVAC system work harder to maintain the temperature, which can cause your energy costs to increase in the long run.

3. Uneven Temperature

If you notice that several rooms in your home are cooler or warmer than others, it may be a sign that your HVAC system is struggling to maintain the desired temperature. This problem can be due to leaky ducts, blocked vents, or a malfunctioning thermostat. Ignoring this issue can lead to poor indoor air quality and discomfort for you and your family.

4. Foul Odours

It’s crucial for your HVAC system to supply clean and pure air. If there’s a foul odour emanating from your vents, it could be an indication of fungus or bacteria breeding in your ductwork. Neglecting this problem may result in inferior indoor air quality, leading to allergies or breathing issues.

5. High Humidity

The HVAC system in your home is essential for eliminating extra moisture from the air. If your house feels damp, it could indicate that your HVAC system is not adequately removing humidity. Increased humidity can lead to mould growth, damage to your home’s framework, and discomfort for you and your loved ones.

6. Increased Energy bills

If you see a sudden rise in your energy bills, it could indicate that your HVAC system isn’t running as efficiently as it should. If you don’t maintain your HVAC system properly, it might cause your energy bills to increase dramatically. Failing to address this issue could result in more severe issues, such as equipment breakdown or premature replacement.

7. Constant Repairs

Once you notice an increased need for HVAC repairs, the HVAC system may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Regular repairs can become expensive and accumulate rapidly. Taking this problem for granted may result in more severe issues like equipment breakdown or early replacement, which can cost you plenty of money later on.

8. Age of System

An HVAC system that is over a decade old may be due for a replacement. Older systems are less efficient and can lead to higher energy bills. Additionally, older systems may require more frequent repairs, leading to added costs. Ignoring the age of your HVAC system can lead to more significant problems, such as equipment failure or premature replacement.

Conclusion

Your HVAC system is instrumental in keeping your home comfortable and healthy. Ignoring the warning signs discussed above can lead to more significant problems, costly repairs, or even premature replacement. If you notice any warning signs, call a professional HVAC technician to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.

Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning provides expert HVAC maintenance services to ensure your system runs efficiently and effectively. Our experienced technicians can help diagnose any issues with your HVAC system and provide solutions to keep your system working at its best. Call us today at 289-688-4822 to book an appointment!