Are you looking to hire an HVAC service company to do preventative maintenance? Chances are you’re unsure about what preventative maintenance includes. If you already have an HVAC preventative maintenance contract, you might wonder if you’re getting the same services as some of your neighbors.
That’s where an HVAC preventative maintenance checklist comes in handy.
While preventative maintenance contracts can differ, the most important thing is that you’re getting what you paid for in your agreement.
Let’s take a look at an HVAC maintenance checklist. It covers tasks typically included in a contract. You can use this checklist when comparing vendors and prices.
Spring/summer HVAC preventative maintenance checklist
Your HVAC service company performs these HVAC preventative maintenance checklist tasks to prepare your air conditioning system for the cooling season ahead.
- Clean or replace filters
- Clean condenser and evaporator coils
- Clean drain lines for proper flow and clear clogs
- Clear drain pans of any standing water to avoid overflows
- Replace worn pulleys and belts
- Inspect ducts for mold, dust, and debris
- Observe humidity levels
- Check refrigerant charge and for leaks
- Test thermostats and controls to make sure temperatures and timer functions are correctly set
- Change batteries
- Check electrical system and connections
- Check fan motor
- Check blowers and blades for proper airflow
- Lubricate motors bearings and moving parts
- Inspect cabinet for leaks and check cabinet door for secure closure
- Check for debris around outside unit
Fall/winter HVAC preventative maintenance checklist
Your HVAC service company performs these HVAC preventative maintenance checklist tasks to check your heating system and prepare it for the cold weather season. Don’t skip these steps if you want to avoid a furnace breakdown this winter.
- Replace filters on heating equipment
- Inspect ignition burner assembly
- Examine heat exchanger or heating elements
- Study flue system and ensure secure attachment to the furnace
- Inspect for gas leaks with gas furnaces
- Assess gas pressure
- Check pulleys and belts
- Clear drain lines and pans
- Check electrical connections
- Lubricate motors, bearings and other moving parts
- Check thermostats and controls
- Check fan and blower operationa and adjust as needed
- Inspect heat pump
- Examine duct work and vents
Check out this Ultimate Commercial HVAC Preventative Maintenance Checklist for your business.
Use this HVAC preventative maintenance checklist as a guide
Now that you know some of the basics covered under preventative maintenance contracts, you can begin talking to different vendors.
You don’t have to get locked into a one-size-fits-all agreement. Look for a vendor that adjusts your HVAC preventative maintenance contract based on your needs, equipment and budget.
Contract terms can vary widely. You might limit HVAC annual maintenance checklist items to one system, such as air conditioning. That might be the case if your building has a central heating system that’s maintained by the building owner.
You might choose an HVAC quarterly maintenance checklist. That option works best when you need more frequent service for changing filters and cleaning coils.
Twice-annual preventative maintenance is a popular option. It’s smart to schedule these visits in the spring and fall before the peak air conditioning and heat seasons.
How to decide what maintenance plan is best for you
As consumers, we naturally want the most for our money. We want fast service, top quality work at bargain basement prices.
The trouble is, it’s rare to get all of these at the same time. When you hire a service provider, you have to set priorities.
Learn more: HVAC Service Contracts: Controlling Time, Quality & Cost
When fast service is your top priority
If fast service is crucial, look for a service provider with an extensive staff and fleet of service vehicles. That way, you’ll get quick responses to emergencies and on-time performance for appointments.
It is not only important to have your technicians arrive on time, but it is also critical for them to finish the work efficiently. If you’re having dinner guests over and your air conditioner has conked out, you don’t want to hear your technicians say they need to go to the warehouse to pick up a part. Ask about access to parts and the percentage of repairs completed in one visit.
When cost is key
We all want to pay a fair price. However, beware of low-ball price that’s much lower than other estimates.
To cut costs, some vendors also cut corners. They might neglect steps on your HVAC preventative maintenance checklist and use inferior parts. Low-cost vendors might not have the resources to supply employees with the latest training available.
Learn more: HVAC Service Contract Pricing Guide
When quality counts
The importance of quality work cannot be understated. Vendors that provide employees with the best training and equipment to work with could save you money in the long run. Repeat service calls are a thing of the past when you receive expert service from Arista’s technicians.
HVAC preventative maintenance checklist: What you see is what you get
You probably know why your HVAC system needs regular maintenance. (If not, read this related blog: Why Get an HVAC Maintenance Contract for Your Luxury Residence?.)
It’s just as important to know how to choose a quality HVAC vendor. When reviewing an HVAC checklist for preventative maintenance, look carefully at both the company and the contract.
Are they are truly accomplishing all the tasks on your HVAC preventative maintenance checklist?
Here’s how Arista shows you exactly what they are doing. Our techs use recording devices that resemble safety glasses. They take video showing what tasks they perform on your HVAC preventative maintenance checklist. After your service visit, you can see that video.
Find out more from this interesting guide: The Evidence-Based Approach to Choosing an HVAC Company.
