The world seems to have been turned upside down from the coronavirus pandemic. Businesses have needed to shut down, gatherings have been cancelled and people have been advised to stay at home whenever possible. As social distancing has become the norm, many people have become wary about allowing others into their homes. But, life still goes on and your HVAC system still needs care and attention to continue working properly. So, it is important to be aware of how to stay safe and comfortable during these trying times.
The Increased Strain
While it may be inconvenient for your HVAC system to break down now, it is important to recognize that there is increased strain. Stay at home orders and remote working has meant that your HVAC system is likely to be seeing far more use than is typical for your home. The extra hours you spend at home, the unseasonably hot weather and allergy season, creates the perfect conditions for your HVAC system to become overworked and potentially suffer issues. This means that it is crucial for your system to be properly maintained. Basic preventative maintenance can not only reduce the likelihood of breakdown issues, but it can also ensure optimum efficiency, so your utility bills won’t skyrocket.
Additionally, in these uncertain economic times, you can feel the reassurance that a proper maintenance schedule can maximize the life expectancy of your HVAC equipment. So, while you may want to save some cash, by spending a little now, you could potentially save thousands of dollars later.
The Benefits of HVAC Maintenance
We’ve already touched on some benefits of having your HVAC system serviced, but these go beyond the financial.
HVAC maintenance will improve the air quality circulating around your home. Even if you are diligent about changing your HVAC filters, dust and debris can accumulate on any parts in the system. This means that dust may collect on the condensing unit, inside the ducts and even inside your furnace. This means that this dust will be circulated throughout your home into the air that you breathe.
It is only natural for people to have concerns about every cough, sneeze and sniffle with COVID 19 continually in the media. So, why irritate your sinuses or trigger any allergies with poor indoor air quality.
As you’re spending more time at home, the last thing you want is for your HVAC system to break down when you need it the most. Although you may be tempted to avoid having contact with people outside your social bubble and miss your HVAC maintenance servicing, you are likely to increase your chances of an equipment breakdown, so you’ll need an even longer technician visit.
You can schedule your servicing appointment for a time that is convenient for you, so you won’t need to work a repair appointment around working from home conference calls or other obligations.
HVAC maintenance can also mean that your home is greener. We have already mentioned saving money on your energy bills, but there are wider implications of ensuring your system is operating at optimum efficiency. Wasting energy is terrible for the planet and many of us are aware of the importance of being responsible and adopting greener practices.
Another aspect of this is that you can prolong the lifespan of your HVAC equipment. A great deal of resources go into producing appliances and equipment. So, if you can keep your HVAC system operating efficiently for longer, you will not only save money, but also do your part for the planet.
Staying Safe
Now we’ve highlighted the importance of starting or continuing a regular maintenance routine for your HVAC system, we need to discuss how you can manage this during the coronavirus pandemic.
Fortunately, you don’t need to choose between staying safe and feeling comfortable, but you will need to carefully consider your options.
It is important to choose a HVAC servicing company that takes coronavirus protection requirements seriously. The technicians should be prepared to take safety precautions to ensure both theirs and your safety, while still providing you with solid service. This should include following the CDC health and safety guidelines for face masks, disposable gloves and shoe coverings. They should also bring disinfecting wipes to your home.
The HVAC company should also be willing to discuss any concerns you may have before your appointment. This will ensure that you feel it is a safe situation for everyone.
Of course, the technician should still offer all the aspects of a regular service and if you have particular concerns about something that may or may not be included in the appointment, be sure to clarify beforehand. This will ensure that the appointment goes as expected with no surprises.
Getting Back to Normal
The coronavirus pandemic has taken a toll on everyone around the world. Whether it is your livelihood, health, savings or mental health, it is understandable to want to get back to normal. Your home can be a refuge against anything that is going on out in the world. So, it is crucial that it remains comfortable and safe.
Although you may not want to open up your home to strangers, scheduling a servicing appointment can ultimately save you hassle, money and operating problems in the future. By taking the proper care and choosing a reputable HVAC company, you can ensure that you remain comfortable and safe.
This will help you to feel a sense of getting back to normal, so you can relax in the comfort of your own home at the perfect temperature for you.
If your HVAC system is showing signs of strain from continuous use as you work and study from home, it may be time to schedule an appointment with an experienced and reputable HVAC technician. If your HVAC system appears to be using more energy, is making noises or creating odors, don’t delay, as there may be an underlying issue that could be compromising performance and may lead to problems in the near future.