MID-LIFE HVAC SYSTEM CHECKUP

Most HVAC systems last for about 15 years, provided they are regularly serviced. Wear and tear happens to all systems, and you can get more out of your HVAC system over the long term if you are strategic about parts replacements and repairs. Customized Climate charges $150 for a full Mid-Life System Checkup.

When you’re preemptive about repairs and replacements, you TEND TO discover a problem before it starts getting COSTLY to FIX.

You can generally replace filters and do small repairs on your own if you have basic knowledge of mechanical systems. Doing your own annual maintenance check up is fine (in fact, when we install a new system, we offer the first year’s annual maintenance at no extra charge for labor, during which we can take you through what you need to be on the lookout for).

But you can’t tell what you should replace or repair unless you’ve done a system check. And sometimes, the parts you need may no longer be available from the manufacturer or the general market. Substitutes can work, but you’ll need expertise to guide you in this. In some cases, substitutes buy you a little time, but over the long run, lower energy efficiencies. An experienced HVAC technician can help you judge which solution would be best for you given your budget.

We highly recommend that if your HVAC system hasn’t been thoroughly checked in five years or more, you should get it done. In our 20 years of experience, we’ve seen most systems without proper maintenance start to falter around the 5-year mark.

The following are the 32 inspection points we go through when we conduct our Mid-Life System Checkup:

Cooling

1. Blower Motor – measure amperage and voltage for proper operation

2. Thermostat – test for proper operation, calibrate and level

3. Clean existing air filter (as needed)

4. Bearing – inspect for wear and lubricate

5. Inspect indoor coil

6. Condensate Drain – flush and treat with anti-algae

7. Inspect Condenser Coil

8. Refrigerant – monitor operating pressures

9. Safety Devices – inspect for proper operation

10. Electrical Disconnect Box – inspect for proper rating and safe installation

11. Electrical Wiring – inspect and tighten connections

12. Test/inspect contactors for burned, pitted contacts

13. Inspect electrical for exposed wiring

14. Inspect and test capacitors

15. Inspect fan blade

16. Clean condenser coil and remove debris

17. Inspect service valves for proper operation

18. Measure Supply/Return temperature differential

19. Inspect duct work for energy loss

20. Compressor – monitor, measure amperage and volt draw

21. Inspect wiring connections for the compressor

Heating

1. Carbon Monoxide – test air flow duct system for dangerous carbon monoxide

2. Thermostat – test for proper operation, calibrate and level

3. Inspect for combustible material around furnace

4. Ignition System – test for safe and proper operation

5. Exhaust System – test for proper venting

6. Measure Supply/Return temperature differential

7. Safety & Control Circuits – test for proper operation

8. Inspect and adjust fan belt tension (if applicable)

9. Clean existing air filter

10. Lubricate and clean blower motor air vents

11. Furnace Burner – clean and inspect (brush and vacuum)