Your car needs an oil change every few months, or you’ll run into problems. The HVAC system also needs a tune-up, for numerous reasons.

Decreased risk of a breakdown

After months of heating your home during the cold winter months, an HVAC system needs a tune-up to continue operating properly. Overworking the system without routine maintenance could increase the risk of an unexpected breakdown and require expensive repairs that could’ve been avoided.

Clean air

During an HVAC tune-up, the technicians will perform a safety check and clear away dust and dirt from the system’s various components. Buildup of pollutants, bacteria, pollen, pet dander, and other contaminants makes it difficult for the HVAC system to operate efficiently and maintain clean indoor air.

Reduced energy costs

An HVAC system uses a significant amount of energy to heat or cool the home. When it isn’t maintained properly, it’s forced to work harder than usual and requires more energy, driving up monthly utility bills. During an HVAC tune-up, the professional technician will identify inefficiencies and make recommendations for repairs and upgrades. This could lead to significant savings over the course of a system’s lifetime.

Improved comfort

If the HVAC system isn’t heating or cooling the home to the temperature set on the thermostat and you find yourself making frequent adjustments to stay comfortable, then you may need a tune-up. Installing a smart thermostat could also help improve comfort, since it will automatically learn what temperature to set for heating and cooling at various times of the day.

Extended HVAC system life

Just like taking good care of your car will help ensure it runs smoothly for years to come, so will taking care of your HVAC system. Here are a few steps you can take on your own before calling in an HVAC technician: