Do AC / Heat Pump Systems need professional preventive maintenance?
I've previously had reliable firms do "annual service". All they did was verify the system heats/cools nicely, clean the outside coil, and offer to change the air filters.
Seems like a waste of good money, so I've quit having them out. The system heats/cools fine, and doesn't run excessively. I change the filters quarterly and clean the outside coil annually.
Thinking I don't need to call a Pro out unless something breaks. Is there some real maintenance/checks that need to be done regularly, or can it just "run until there's a problem"
Comments
An A/C system either works or it doesn't. There are no exterior components you can maintain other than changing your filter regularly (at least once a month) and make sure the pan under the air handler drains properly. You can pour a solution of a gallon of water mixed with a cup of bleach into the pan every six months or so. It will break down any small elements that are prone to build up and block the drain. Save you money and do the maintenance yourself.
They should have also checked the refrigerant charge.
This is something that can only be checked and verified by a qualified person.
This is very important as a leak can develop at any time and a low charge affects the efficiency making the unit run longer cycles and use the resistance heat more often.
It may seem like they are not doing much but their experience allows them to see any potential problems and what may not be working properly.
Since the resistance heat takes over if the heat pump is not keeping up you may not know you have a problem till you get your electric bill.
Heat pumps should be checked annually by a qualified tech.
All you really need to do is change your filters often and at regular intervals. All the AC guy does is see if it's working or not. The only thing they can do that you can't is check your Puron/Freon pressure with a gauge. But honestly, if you had a leak your system wouldn't work anyway.
no, just make sure the air filter and outside coil stay clean.
It's not nessicary to use a professional, BUT when a professional does the work, they have to warranty their work. Be sure to get receipts proving they did the work.