UBCNews - Business - How Often Should HVAC Systems Be Serviced? (And When To Call The Professionals)

Episode Date: January 28, 2026

Okay, so here's a question for everyone listening - when was the last time you actually thought about your HVAC system? I mean, really thought about it, not just when it suddenly stopped working in the middle of summer? Engle Services City: Sylacauga Address: 40300 U.S. 280 Website: https://engleservicesheatingandair.com/

Okay, so here's a question for everyone listening. When was the last time you actually thought about your HVAC system? I mean, really thought about it, not just when it suddenly stopped working in the middle of summer? That's such a good point because most of us only notice it when something goes wrong. But here's the thing. Regular servicing can actually prevent those nightmare scenarios. Most experts recommend getting your system serviced at least once a year. Once a year, okay?

is there, um, a specific time that works best for that? Definitely. You want to schedule your air conditioning service in the spring before the heat kicks in and heating maintenance in the fall. That way you're preparing the system for the demands of extreme temperatures. It's like getting your car tuned up before a long road trip. Makes sense. But why is this so important?

I mean, what's really happening during that annual checkup? Great question. Professional servicing includes three. key things. Cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical connections. They'll also lubricate moving parts and calibrate your thermostat. All of this keeps your system running efficiently, which can actually improve energy efficiency by 5 to 15%. Wow, that's a pretty significant savings on utility bills. And I'm guessing it helps the system last longer, too? Exactly. Annual maintenance can extend the lifespan of your system by several years. You're potentially

saving yourself the cost of premature replacement, which is huge. Plus, here's something people don't always realize. Many warranties actually require proof of annual professional maintenance to stay valid. Oh, that's a financial safeguard right there. So we've established the professional side, but what about the stuff homeowners can do themselves? There are actually some simple DIY checks that make a real difference. The big one is changing your air filter regularly, every one to three months depending on usage. A dirty filter is one of the most common causes of inefficiency because it restricts airflow and makes the system work way harder. Right? And that increases energy consumption. Exactly. You know, I learned this the hard way

when I forgot to change my filter for like six months. My energy bill shot up 20 bucks, and I I couldn't figure out why until a technician pointed at this absolutely filthy filter. Oh, wow, that's a pricey reminder. So beyond the filter, what else can folks do? You can keep outdoor units clear of debris, leaves, grass clippings, that sort of thing, and make sure your vents aren't blocked by furniture or curtains. These are quick checks, but they really help maintain optimal performance and keep things running smoothly. I like that.

simple tasks that prolongs system life. That point about maintaining optimal performance sets up our next piece, recognizing when you need a professional. But first, a quick word from our sponsor. When your heating or cooling system needs expert attention, Engel's services is here to help. Serving Birmingham and Central Alabama, their certified technicians offer prompt emergency response,

in-home assessments, and full-service repairs for heating, cooling, electrical, and plumbing systems. They perform routine upkeep and replacements in line with industry standards to keep your home comfortable year-round. Learn more at ingleservicesheating and air.com. Picking up on that optimal performance idea, how do you know when a DIY check isn't enough and you actually need to call in a pro?

There are some pretty clear warning signs. Unusual noises like grinding or squealing, strange odors coming from the vents, inconsistent heating or cooling throughout your home, these all indicate something's wrong. Mm-hmm, makes sense. Yeah, another big red flag is sudden spikes in your energy bills without explanation, or a system that frequently cycles on and off. If you notice a complete lack of airflow from vents, even when the system's running, that needs professional diagnosis right away.

What about more serious issues like refrigerant leaks or water damage? Those require immediate professional attention. Refigerent leaks can harm the environment and severely reduce cooling efficiency, and block condensate drains can lead to water damage and increased humidity levels in your home. That often requires professional clearing. I understand. So there's really a clear line between what we can handle and what needs expert help? Absolutely.

While some tasks are DIY-friendly, complex electrical components, refrigerant handling, and furnace combustion checks should always be left to certified technicians. Safety first, you know? Right, especially with older systems. How does age factor into all this? If your system is over 10 to 15 years old, professional inspections become even more critical. Older systems are more prone to breakdowns and inefficiencies.

With gas furnaces especially, you need inspections of combustion components because carbon monoxide leaks, though rare, are a silent danger. That's sobering. So to everyone listening, think of preventative maintenance as identifying minor issues before they escalate. Regular upkeep catches those small problems before they turn into major, costly repairs, especially during peak seasons when you need your system most. Exactly. Ignoring minor issues can create a domino effect where one small problem stresses other components,

resulting in more extensive and expensive repairs down the line. Regular maintenance helps you avoid that scenario entirely. Right, so it's really about prevention. And beyond the cost savings, there's the comfort factor too. Definitely. A well-maintained system provides more consistent, reliable heating and cooling. Plus, let's not forget indoor air quality. Neglecting maintenance can lead to the accumulation of dust, allergens, and even mold within the system,

which affects the air you and your family breathe every day. That's something we often overlook, the connection between HVAC maintenance and our health. Oh, absolutely. The U.S. Department of Energy actually recommends annual maintenance for heating and cooling systems to ensure they operate at peak efficiency. It's backed by solid research and practical experience. So bottom line, regular servicing, simple DIY checks, and knowing when to call the pros. Together, we're going to keep those systems running smoothly and our home's comfortable year round. Thank you.