Author: Matt Postoian

It’s easy to overlook heating system maintenance — or rather, it’s easy to overlook until your energy bills spike or your home isn’t as warm as it should be. Heater maintenance addresses the wear your system accumulates as it works hard to heat your home, helping to improve reliability, energy efficiency, and more.

Why Heating Maintenance is Critical for Winter

Winter demands a lot from your heating system. Furnaces, heat pumps, and other heating systems are engineered to accommodate your home’s heating load as the temperatures drop, making heater maintenance important for winter comfort.

As your system works harder to heat your home, clogged filters, dirty burners, worn components, and other inefficiencies or issues compound quickly. In turn, your heating must work harder, further stressing its components and potentially leading to costly energy bills or system breakdowns. Routine maintenance addresses regular wear, dirt, and other issues that come with usage, such as replacing an air filter or calibrating the thermostat.

Key Benefits of Regular Heating Maintenance

Regular heating maintenance identifies and addresses minor problems before they can escalate, preventing undue wear or breakdowns. Maintenance goes beyond just preventing problems, though — by keeping your system in optimal condition, tune-ups also benefit your comfort, health, and wallet.

Improved System Efficiency

Heating systems are complicated units with many components operating in tandem, and even a small problem can disrupt the entire heating process and efficiency. Routine maintenance includes inspecting, cleaning, and lubricating these components to ensure your system operates smoothly and consistently.

Lower Energy Bills

Without regular maintenance, heating systems work harder and consume more energy to achieve the same heating performance. For instance, air filters trap dust, dirt, and other debris, preventing them from entering the ductwork and heating unit. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder and consume more energy to heat your home, therefore driving energy bills up. Proper maintenance improves energy efficiency by minimizing strain, resulting in lower energy consumption and utility bills.

Enhanced Comfort and Safety

While a poorly maintained unit may provide inconsistent warmth or stop working altogether, tune-ups keep your home’s heating even and comfortable. Maintenance also ensures that safety sensors and other components are working as they should, minimizing the risk of heating-related safety concerns such as carbon monoxide, gas leaks, fire, and electrical hazards.

10 Signs Your Heating System Needs Maintenance

Heating systems often show signs when they need maintenance. While they may be subtle initially, they can lead to bigger efficiency and safety concerns later if unaddressed.

1. Unusual noises

Heating systems run quietly, typically with a low hum as air travels through the ductwork or a click of the ignition when a cycle starts. Banging, squealing, whistling, and other strange noises should be a red flag. For example, rattling or grinding suggests loose parts or mechanical problems, while banging and popping may come from small explosions within the heat exchanger.

2. Inconsistent heating

With proper sizing, installation, and maintenance, warm air should be distributed evenly throughout your home. If you encounter consistent cold or warm spots, your system may not be running efficiently. Restricted airflow, whether from a bent blower fan blade, blocked vent, or clogged air filter, is often the underlying cause of hot and cold spots. Short heating cycles, which stem from various other problems, may also prevent your system from running long enough to reach each corner of your home.

3. Higher energy bills

It’s normal for energy bills to increase in correlation to increased heating usage. Consistently climbing or suddenly spiked energy bills mean that your system is using more energy than it should to maintain performance.

4. Weak airflow

Decreased or inconsistent airflow from your vents may be due to clogged filters, faulty blower fans, or ductwork leaks or blockages. Weak airflow strains the heating unit and makes it work harder to maintain the preset temperature, potentially straining and damaging your system over time.

5. Bad odors from the vents

Furnaces sometimes emit burning-like smells after long periods of disuse and gradual dust accumulation over the summer, but these smells should dissipate after a few cycles. Otherwise, your system shouldn’t smell — musty or mildew odors indicate obscured mold, burning smells stem from overheating components, and rotten eggs signal a gas leak.

6. Frequent system cycles

If your heating turns on and off more frequently than usual, known as short cycling, it likely has underlying inefficiencies. Short cycling means that your furnace or heat pump runs more frequently, which consumes more energy and accelerates overall wear.

7. Pilot light or ignition issues

Furnaces use either a pilot light or an electric ignition system to initiate a heating cycle. Problems with components involved in the ignition process, such as the thermocouple, gas valve, or burner, may prevent your system from starting properly or increase safety risks.

8. Difficulty starting the unit

If your heating unit struggles to start — whether it takes longer than usual or requires multiple attempts — several issues can be responsible. Some are as simple as resetting or recalibrating a thermostat, resetting a breaker, or replacing an air filter, while others involve more complex components and require more thorough inspection.

9. Poor indoor air quality

Dirty filters, blocked ducts, and other problems may negatively impact indoor air quality. When air filters are clogged, for instance, your system may experience reduced airflow, bacteria and mold buildup, and greater circulation of harmful particles throughout your home. Unpleasant odors and respiratory problems often correlate with poor air quality.

10. Aging equipment without regular maintenance

If your heating equipment is 10 years old or more and hasn’t had consistent maintenance over its lifetime, it’s more likely to break down or lose efficiency. Even systems that are only a few years old may show signs of wear without routine tune-ups.

How Often Should Your Heating System Be Serviced?

Most heating systems need maintenance at least once per year, ideally in the fall and before peak heating season to ensure its reliability and performance.

Some systems may require more frequent services — for example, older systems have more accumulated wear and are more prone to breakdowns and inefficiencies, but more frequent maintenance can help mitigate these risks. Likewise, heavy heating usage may require more frequent tune-ups. Households with pets, excessive dust, or other air quality concerns may need to replace their air filters more often, about once per month.

Choosing a Professional Heating Maintenance Service

Choosing the right provider helps you maximize the benefits of heating system maintenance. By selecting a licensed, insured, and expert technician, you can increase your home’s comfort, improve efficiency, and reduce energy bills with heater maintenance. Consider these tips to choose a professional heating maintenance service that meets your needs:

• Read testimonials and reviews: Check online reviews and read customer testimonials. Your chosen provider should have largely positive reviews regarding expertise with various systems and models, customer service, pricing, and convenience.

• Consider maintenance packages: Look for preventative maintenance plans offering annual services and other benefits, such as priority service and discounts.

• Check licensing and certification: Licenses and certifications guarantee that technicians are properly trained and equipped to safely handle various system types.

Call AC Plus for Heater Maintenance in Victorville

Don’t get left in the cold! Serving Victorville, Rancho Cucamonga, and other California areas, AC Plus delivers essential heater maintenance to optimize your system’s performance. Schedule your heating system maintenance with AC Plus Heating & Cooling today for a warm, worry-free winter.

Air duct cleaning isn’t something most homeowners think about often, but did you know that regular duct cleaning helps prevent negative consequences to your home and your health? It’s important to have your ducts cleaned every two to five years on average to ensure your furnace works at peak efficiency and your air stays clean year-round.  

The EPA recommends getting your air duct cleaning done by qualified professionals who clean all system components. Pollen, dust, and debris may damage an HVAC system over time, and moisture can cause mold growth if the system isn’t cleaned properly. 

A home’s duct cleaning needs depend on the complexity of the system, who is living in the house, and how often the heater is turned on in the winter and the AC in the summer. If you’re not sure when your ducts were last cleaned, now’s the time to call AC Plus Heating & Cooling. We’re available now to give your ducts a top-to-bottom cleaning that’ll ease your mind — and your breathing! 

The Role of Air Ducts in Maintaining Indoor Air Quality

One of the biggest benefits of air duct cleaning is the improvement in your home’s indoor air quality when it’s done. Clean air is especially beneficial for individuals with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory disorders, who may find poor air quality causes their symptoms to worsen. A clean air duct distributes clean, conditioned air throughout the home, letting you breathe easier. 

Why Air Duct Cleaning Is Essential Before Winter

Regular air duct cleaning is important because clogged or dirty air ducts stifle airflow, forcing your HVAC system to work harder. This reduces efficiency, increases your energy bills whenever the heat is on, and reduces the service life of your furnace. 

Having your ducts cleaned before you start running your furnace full-time removes pet dander, dust, allergens, pollen, and other debris that have accumulated there through the warmer months. Once the weather gets cold, you can turn your furnace on with confidence, knowing the air coming from your vents is clean and healthy.

Key Benefits of Professional Air Duct Cleaning

The following are some of the biggest benefits of having your air ducts cleaned by the professionals at AC Plus Heating & Cooling.

Improved air quality

If you’re wondering how air duct cleaning improves air quality, first, you need to consider what causes poor indoor air quality. Pollutants like smoke and air pollution may cause some air quality issues, but most indoor issues are caused by the air circulating through your home. A good furnace filter helps, but when there’s detritus in the vents, this also gets pumped into the air, causing air quality concerns. Clean air ducts means not having to worry about breathing recirculated contaminants. 

Reduced allergens and dust

Clean ducts reduce allergens and dust in the air, like pet hair and dander, pollen, mold spores, and other problematic particulates that impact your allergy symptoms and respiratory health. You’ll breathe easier when your air ducts are cleaned by an AC Plus expert. 

Increased HVAC efficiency

Regularly scheduled air duct cleaning helps improve your HVAC system’s performance. The more debris, dust, mold, and other blockages in your system, the harder your furnace needs to work to pump air. Over time, an overworked furnace will start to break down, increasing its environmental impact and costing you more in energy bills.

Signs Your Air Ducts Need Cleaning

Some of the biggest signs you should clean your air ducts include the following:

• Visible mold, both on the sheet metal surfaces of the ductwork and in other parts of the home heating system
• Signs of vermin living in the ducts, like insects or droppings, hair, and nests from rodents and other pests
• Excess dust, debris, and grime in the vents that disperse through your home, making your house dustier 
• Musty or otherwise bad-smelling odors blow through your home when the heat or AC is on
• Inconsistent airflow, which could be caused by blockages or other duct issues 
• Worsening air quality that makes you sneeze, cough, or experience allergic reactions or respiratory issues when at home

How Often Should Air Ducts Be Cleaned?

The frequency of air duct cleaning depends on your household. If you live alone in a small, clean space and keep your HVAC system well-maintained, you can likely get away with going three to five years between cleanings. On the other hand, if you live with pets, it’s better to have cleanings done more frequently, as hair and dander infiltrate the entire system over time, even with frequent furnace filter changes. 

You should also have your ducts cleaned every one to two years if you or others in your family would benefit from better indoor air quality. For example, if you suffer from allergies, something as simple as duct cleaning can improve your quality of life. If you don’t know the last time your ducts were cleaned, it’s probably time to do it now. 

It’s also a good idea to have your ducts professionally cleaned if you’ve had construction done on your home or have completed home renovations. These activities add dust and particulates into the air, which settle in the ducts. 

Choosing the Right Professional for Air Duct Cleaning

How do you find the right professional air duct cleaning company for your needs? Look for a company that offers:

• Timely, expert service
• Excellent warranties and guarantees on their work
• Fair prices on services, parts, and HVAC systems
• Financing options 

At AC Plus Heating & Cooling, we’ll help you prepare your ducts for winter, clean them out thoroughly, and make sure your heating system is working as it should. We offer expert maintenance services to prolong the longevity of your system and help it run more efficiently so you can enjoy excellent air quality year-round, even when the furnace is blasting. 

During air duct cleaning, we use a video-assisted Rotobrush® air duct system. This technology allows us to remove contaminants and debris by brushing and vacuuming without any harsh chemicals, solvents, or sealants. We’ll also review your ducts for issues and do repairs as needed. 

Whether you want to schedule professional air duct cleaning services today or you have questions about your HVAC system, contact us today. We serve the Inland Empire and High Desert areas around San Bernardino County. We offer Californians top-quality home comfort and peace of mind. 

Start the Winter With Cleaner, Fresher Air

Our home service company has been committed to keeping California homes cool in the summer and cozy in the winter since the year 2000. We’re known for our reliability, prompt service, and reasonable pricing. 

Our contractors are trained to provide excellent customer service. We’ll listen to your concerns and treat you with the respect you deserve every time. Contact us today, and we’ll enhance the efficiency of your HVAC system, improve your air quality, and reduce allergens with duct cleaning.

If you’re considering replacing your furnace, there are several reasons to time your heater installation. It’s best not to wait until the dead of winter. Your heating system may need replacement without you realizing it, especially if it’s an older unit. We’ll explain when the best time of year is to install a new heater and how timing can affect the system’s overall performance and efficiency.

Buying a New Furnace? Fall Is the Best Time

In San Bernardino County, cool temperatures don’t set in as early as other places. You don’t have to install a new heater in August. However, it’s never too soon to start planning. September and October can start cooling down and chillier temperatures aren’t too far away. A new heater installation can prepare your home for winter.

Why Buy a New Heater in the Fall

The longer you wait, the busier your local HVAC contractor will likely be. Early fall is the best time for heater installation for the following reasons:

• Safety: Replacing your furnace before winter can avoid a natural gas or carbon monoxide leak if the unit malfunctions during a time of high demand.
• Emergencies: With a fall heater installation, you can avoid being left in the cold during a freeze and paying emergency service fees.
• Long Wait Times: By planning, you can find a reputable HVAC company and schedule service before you face long wait times.
• Deals: Off-season discounts and promotions are often available in the fall. Most HVAC companies charge lower prices than in peak seasons. It’s also easier to find rebates and you have more time to explore your financing options
• Research: Not only do you have more time to find exclusive offers via newsletters, social media, trade fairs, and other local events. You can take time to research the best heater models and determine what types/sizes are best for your home.
• Efficiency: Older furnaces tend to operate less efficiently. With a newer model, you can benefit from improved energy efficiency and lower utility bills starting at the beginning of the cooling season.
• Scheduling: Heating companies usually have a more flexible schedule during the off-season. Therefore, you can set a convenient time and since fall is milder, a lack of heat during the installation process won’t cause problems.
• Equipment Availability: Specific equipment models and brands may be harder to find closer to the winter season. The earlier you schedule heater installation, the less of a factor competition for resources will be. You may have more options to choose from.

What If a Fall Heater Replacement Isn’t an Option?

Fall is the ideal time to replace your heater, but it’s not your only option. You should replace your furnace if it’s showing signs of failure by the end of the winter. While most people are considering air conditioner service, your local HVAC technician can help you find and install a new heating system so it’s ready for next season.

Late spring is also a good time to invest in an HVAC system replacement. For example, May is usually mild, and contractors have time to help replace your heating and cooling system. You can save by bundling these services together. The components of the system will also match, improving efficiency and extending the life of equipment. 

Availability of seasonal discounts, your household budget, and upcoming personal commitments can affect when the best time is to replace your heating system. Scheduling service between personal obligations can make heater installation a less stressful process. A spring heater replacement can also avoid having to plan, schedule, and wait for heater replacement during extreme weather.

How Do I Know It’s Time to Replace My Heater?

A heater’s lifespan depends on how well it’s maintained and other factors. A furnace can last at least 15 years if you take good care of it. Gas furnaces can last up to 20 years (electric models can last longer), boilers can last up to 30 years, and heat pumps last around 15 years. The most obvious signs you need a new furnace include the following:

• Uneven or Inconsistent Heating: Consider replacing your furnace if temperatures vary from room to room or fluctuate throughout the day.
• Frequent Repairs: The expense of a major repair or frequent service calls can justify the cost of replacing your heating system.
• Rising Energy Bills: If you aren’t using your heater differently but your energy bills spike, replacing your aging furnace can keep expenses in check. 
• Yellow Burner Flame: The burner flame should always be blue. If it’s yellow or any other, your heater isn’t burning fuel property and may be leaking carbon monoxide.
• Odd Noises: Banging, squealing, rattling, and other loud noises mean there’s a mechanical issue that may warrant replacing your furnace.

No matter what time of year these symptoms occur, it’s time to contact a local heater installation contractor about replacing the unit. We also recommend annual maintenance in the fall because a technician can help determine if your heater is reaching the end of its lifespan. They’ll also find the best-sized unit for your home, help select from energy-efficient options, and use their skills and knowledge to install it properly.

Schedule Heater Installation with AC Plus

No matter when your heating system needs to be replaced, you can trust AC Plus for professional heater installation in Southern California. We work with some of the most reliable equipment brands on the market. A family-owned and operated company, we help make heating services affordable with free estimates, fair pricing, and financing options. Plus, all our installations include an industry-leading warranty and guarantee. 

To schedule an estimate and learn about financing options for upgrading your HVAC system, call (760) 823-8767 today.

Regular heat pump repair and maintenance can extend its lifespan. If well cared for, a heat pump can last 15 years, providing year-round comfort and working efficiently. At AC Plus, we specialize in all types of heat pump service to keep your system in top shape. Let’s look at advice, smaller repairs, and maintenance steps that can help get more out of your investment.

Never Delay a Repair

Any issue should be treated with urgency. One faulty component or any amount of wear can strain the system until it fails. A small heat pump repair can go a long way in increasing the unit’s lifespan. Call a local HVAC contractor if you notice any of the following signs of impending trouble:

• The heat pump runs constantly
• Your home isn’t at the right temperature
• Your energy bill spikes
• The unit makes loud noises
• Vents have limited airflow
• The system short cycles
• It doesn’t switch modes

Change the Air Filter as Recommended

The filter should be checked at least every month. We generally recommend cleaning or replacing the air filter in your heat pump every three months, but it should be replaced whenever it’s clogged or dirty. Changing the filter each season can keep the unit running efficiently and prevent it from being overworked.

Seasonal Maintenance Tips

Since your heat pump runs year-round, keeping up with seasonal maintenance is essential. Aside from inspecting and changing the filters, here are a few tips for maintaining the unit each season of the year:

• Winter: Although snow is rare in Southern California, any snow or ice buildup on your outdoor unit must be cleared away quickly. Otherwise, it can restrict airflow or damage your heat pump. Also, check for excess frost, which can indicate a defrost cycle problem.

• Spring: Clean leaves, dirt, and debris from the outdoor unit. If vegetation starts to encroach on it, trim it back so your heat pump can operate properly. Spring is also a good time to call a pro to check refrigerant levels and tighten electrical connections.

• Summer: If you haven’t already scheduled a tune-up by early summer, now is a good time to do so. Keep checking the outdoor unit for debris and keep the area around it clear.

• Fall: In the fall, we recommend testing the thermostat to ensure its temperature readings are accurate and it turns your heat pump on and off properly. Also, check for leaks or obstructions in vents and ducts. We also recommend professional maintenance before winter starts.

Improve the Insulation in Your Home

If you haven’t done so, check the insulation in your home, especially the attic. Replacing damaged insulation or adding insulating materials to underinsulated spaces can help your heat pump work more efficiently. Otherwise, heat loss and heat gain can strain the system, which can lead to damage that requires costly repairs. Insulation improvement isn’t a direct heat pump repair but can help the system last longer.

Check for Ductwork Problems

Ducts can deteriorate as they age. As they do, conditioned air can escape from holes and loose connections. The unit must then work harder to control the temperature and push enough air through the system. Excess strain can burn more energy and shorten your heat pump’s lifespan. Air quality issues can also occur from dust, pollen, mold spores, smoke, insulation fibers, and other contaminants entering your home through ducts.

Call a professional to check your ductwork if you notice these signs:

• Lack of heating/cooling
• Poor airflow
• High utility bills
• Odd noises
• Odors from vents

Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat

If you have a manual thermostat, upgrading to a programmable or smart one requires a professional. It may involve wiring updates and changing the unit’s location. These are not tasks you should do on your own, so contact an HVAC repair professional. Programmability makes it easier to set the temperature lower when you’re away from home or asleep, saving energy and reducing wear on your heat pump.

Give Your Heat Pump a Rest

If your heat pump is always on, it’ll wear out faster and you’ll need more heat pump repairs. Keeping it on “Auto” gives it some reprieve. Meanwhile, shutting the unit off on more comfortable days can reduce the amount of work it must do. Therefore, you can increase its lifespan.

Schedule Biannual Maintenance

As we’ve mentioned earlier, your heat pump should be inspected regularly by an HVAC technician. They can safely perform tasks such as measuring refrigerant levels, inspecting electrical connections, and checking belts and other components for damage. Other issues to look for include blocked drain lines and malfunctioning reversing valves. System cleanings, adjustments, and repairs in spring and fall can improve equipment performance and longevity.

Call AC Plus for Heat Pump Repair and Maintenance

At AC Plus, we’re committed to helping customers in San Bernardino County have a more efficient and longer-lasting heat pump. Our trained technicians can help extend the life of your system. They can perform any repair, no matter how complex, and thoroughly inspect, clean, and service the unit during a maintenance visit. Schedule an appointment or call (760) 462-2497 today to request service.

Although winter in Victorville, CA, is generally mild, it’s important to have a reliable furnace to keep you warm. Even if you’re diligent with regular maintenance, your furnace won’t last forever, and eventually, you’ll need a furnace replacement. No matter how much you’re willing to pay for more repairs, it might not be enough to restore your furnace to its original state. The experts at AC Plus Heating and Cooling have some tips and information about the signs that may indicate it’s time to replace your furnace for more consistent, reliable heating.

How Long Does a Furnace Typically Last?

So, how long does a furnace last? The answer depends on a few factors, including what type of furnace you have (gas or electric), past maintenance, and how much hot water your household uses.

Average Lifespan

The average lifespan of a gas furnace is between 15 to 20 years. Electric furnaces tend to last longer, often between 20 and 30 years, with proper care. The total lifespan of a furnace also depends on things like the quality of installation and the components used, but other factors could impact your furnace’s overall longevity, too.

Factors that Impact Longevity

Here are some key factors that impact furnace longevity.

• Maintenance: If you schedule regular seasonal maintenance like annual check-ups and routine filter changes, your furnace should last longer.

• Usage: Furnaces that run more frequently for long periods in cold climates tend to have a shorter lifespan than furnaces that only run occasionally.

• Quality: The quality of your furnace’s components, the brand, make, and model, and the quality of the installation itself may also impact longevity.

Common Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Furnace

You may not know exactly when to replace a furnace. Look for these common signs that you need a new furnace before it breaks down and leaves you in the cold.

Your Furnace Makes Odd Noises

Strange noises coming from your furnace almost always indicate a mechanical issue, although dirt may be the cause if your furnace is just a few years old. Screeching, popping, banging, or squealing sounds may indicate the system is overheating. Thumping or grinding sounds may mean the blower motor is failing, while clicking sounds could mean you have a failing compressor that might cost more to repair than a new furnace installation.

Repair Costs are too High

The cost to replace your furnace may be less than or equal to the cost to repair your old furnace. Some repairs may cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Older furnaces tend to require more frequent repairs that add up over time. Some experts say it’s best to replace your furnace if the repair costs are 30% to 50% or more of the price of a new unit.

Inadequate or Uneven Heating

If your furnace isn’t producing heat, no matter how high you set the thermostat, it could mean the unit is failing. A lack of heat or uneven heating in different rooms is a common problem that tends to occur with a malfunctioning or older furnace nearing the end of its lifespan.

Poor Indoor Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can make allergies, asthma, and other respiratory symptoms worse. Certain pollutants generated by oil and gas furnaces can also be harmful to your health. Routine maintenance, including tune-ups and filter changes, is vital to keep the air inside your home safe and clean. A reduction in indoor air quality during the winter may be a sign that your furnace needs maintenance, repairs, or replacement.

Increasing Energy Costs

Your monthly utility bill fluctuates depending on the season, but it shouldn’t change too dramatically without a significant change in usage. If your energy bill is suddenly much higher than normal, it may indicate a loss in furnace energy efficiency. This is one of the most common old furnace problems and is a key sign that you may need a replacement.

Furnace Repair vs. Furnace Replacement: How to Decide

It may be difficult to determine which option is best when deciding between repairing vs replacing your furnace. Remember these factors to help you determine whether a repair or a replacement is the right choice for you.

Repairs

If your furnace is newer and only a few years old, it’s likely cheaper and easier to just have it repaired. Minor issues like replacing the capacitor or addressing thermostat problems are simple and inexpensive to fix. Overall, as long as the cost to repair your furnace is less than half the price of a new unit, you’re better off repairing it.

Replacement

Furnaces that are close to 15 years old or older and that have frequent breakdowns should be replaced. A reduction in efficiency, performance, and indoor air quality is also a red flag that indicates you need an upgrade. Frequent noises, strange odors, and major problems that cost a lot of money to fix may not be worth it, and you should consider getting a replacement instead.

Benefits of Replacing an Old Furnace

A new furnace costs anywhere from a few thousand dollars to $10,000, on average, depending on the type, size, difficulty of installation, and other factors. Here are some of the benefits of furnace replacement.

• Upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient furnace helps you save on monthly utility costs and provides more consistent, reliable heating.
• Modern furnaces have new features like special filters and closed combustion chambers to support healthy indoor air quality.
• A new furnace is more reliable, so you won’t have to worry about paying for frequent repairs or dealing with unexpected breakdowns.
• Installing a new furnace may help to increase your home’s resale value.

What to Expect During a Professional Furnace Installation

Here’s what to expect when you contact AC Plus for professional furnace installation services.

• Step one: We’ll assess your home size and unique heating needs to find the best furnace for you.

• Step two: Our licensed technician will disconnect, remove, and safely dispose of your old furnace.

• Step three: We place the new furnace in the proper location and connect the electrical and/or gas lines and ductwork if required.

• Step four: A technician will test the furnace, calibrate the thermostat, perform safety checks, and confirm that everything is performing optimally.

Don’t Wait Until It Breaks: Call AC Plus Today!

Don’t wait until your furnace breaks to get a replacement. AC Plus Heating and Cooling is the trusted local expert available to help with your home heating needs in the High Desert and Inland Empire area of Southern California. To schedule your new furnace installation or replacement, contact us today!

Professional heat pump maintenance should be performed twice a year. Since a heat pump operates year-round to provide heating and cooling, it requires more frequent service than an air conditioner or furnace used seasonally. A heat pump maintenance service from your local HVAC contractor and tasks you can DIY help optimize your system’s performance and efficiency for every season.

At AC Plus, we specialize in keeping heat pumps in top shape. Here’s a look at when to schedule service and a seasonal guide on properly maintaining your heat pump system.

Spring Heat Pump Maintenance

Your heat pump should receive a post-winter checkup. The demands on the system in cold weather may have strained it. Therefore, you want to ensure it’s ready to handle the cooling demand as warm weather arrives. A pre-summer heat pump inspection should include the following tasks:

• Clean the Coils: Any dirt or debris on the outdoor coils must be removed to improve efficiency and ensure your heat pump works properly.
• Measure Refrigerant Levels: If the refrigerant level is low, the unit will exchange heat less effectively. A technician measures refrigerant levels and can recharge the system and make repairs if there’s a leak.
• Inspect Ductwork: Holes, gaps, and tears can cause conditioned air to escape and pollution to get inside. Sealing duct leaks improves system efficiency and indoor air quality.

Fall Heat Pump Maintenance

After enduring the summer heat and keeping your home cool, a heat pump should be maintained to ensure it’s ready to handle winter demand. Maintenance should be scheduled early in the fall to prevent a breakdown. As you prepare to transition your system to heating mode, a contractor should do the following tasks:

• Inspect Defrost Controls: The defrost system kicks in when frost starts to build up on the coils during colder days and nights. A technician determines they’re working correctly and makes any adjustments or repairs necessary.
• System Inspection: A professional inspection helps find issues with any heat pump components so they can be addressed before you rely on consistent heating for your home.
• Check the Thermostat: Fall is a good time to inspect the thermostat to determine its accuracy. It can be calibrated if necessary, or the batteries can be replaced before any performance issues occur.

Winter and Summer Heat Pump Maintenance Tips

Winter can be harsh on your heat pump system. In between professional maintenance calls, make sure to remember the following tasks:

• Regularly clean indoor components and clear obstructions to improve performance.
• Check for and remove snow and ice buildup that can damage the outdoor unit.
• Turn the thermostat warm enough but not too cool for a balance of comfort and energy efficiency.

Your heat pump also requires maintenance in the summer. During the warmer months, be sure to do the following:

• Adjust the thermostat settings so your heat pump provides efficient cooling.
• Check the air filters every month and clean/replace them as the manufacturer recommends.
• Trim vegetation and remove debris from around the outdoor unit to optimize airflow.

Your heat pump requires maintenance throughout the year. Regardless of the season, keep the indoor and outdoor units clean and check that the refrigerant lines are properly insulated and in good condition. Also, remember to clean the supply and return registers and change or clean filters every three months or as otherwise recommended.

Why Schedule Professional Heat Pump Maintenance

Licensed HVAC professionals have the tools and expertise to properly maintain your heat pump. Aside from the important tasks mentioned above, they can also complete the following to ensure your system is in top shape:

• Inspect the blower and adjust its speed if necessary.
• Measure airflow and determine if it meets the required parameters.
• Inspect, clean, and tighten electrical connections and components.
• Test electrical controls and ensure that heating or cooling only works when called for.
• Inspect and tighten belts.
• Lubricate motors and other moving parts.

Benefits of Regular Heat Pump Maintenance

Heat pumps require ongoing maintenance. Your local HVAC contractor should provide two tune-ups per year; joining their maintenance plan ensures your routine service needs are covered. The unit should also be cleaned and maintained between service calls. Even the simplest of tasks, including changing filters, can improve energy efficiency, lower your energy bills, prevent breakdowns, extend system life, and ensure year-round comfort.

Contact AC Plus Today

We provide professional heat pump maintenance in Victorville, CA. Homeowners in Rancho Cucamonga, Redlands, Apple Valley, and surrounding communities also rely on us to keep their heat pump systems in top shape. Our maintenance services include system inspections, cleanings, and calibrations. To learn more about these and other services or schedule a maintenance appointment, call (760) 243-4440 today!