Annual HVAC maintenance
A heating and cooling system works approximately 3000+ hours per year across a range of temperatures and climates. We rely on HVAC systems to maintain climate comfort in all seasons often with little consideration for regular maintenance. In comparison, if we drove our car for 3000 hours at 60 km/h, we would travel 180,000 km. We would never consider driving this distance without a full service including, tyre check and oil change, for our safety, and to ensure the reliability of the vehicle and maximum fuel efficiency. Much like your vehicle, regular maintenance of your HVAC system and calibration of the thermostat extends the life of the system and ensures maximum operating efficiency.
How Often Should A Thermostat Be Calibrated?
Professional calibration companies and HVAC manufacturers recommend calibrating your thermostat at least once a year. Some recommend re-calibration of larger systems every three months or at the very least, twice a year. HVAC systems should be serviced at regular intervals as per manufacturers recommendations, but it also depends on the regularity of use and system demands. HVAC systems are a chief consumer of energy and systems that are functioning inadequately can have a massive impact on household bills and business operating costs. Systems that are poorly maintained also deliver compromised indoor air quality (IAQ) that can have a detrimental impact on the health, well-being and comfort of your family or employees.
Benefits of Annual HVAC Calibration and Maintenance
Reduced Energy Bills
A HVAC thermostat needs to be working accurately to maintain optimum functioning of the system. A thermostat that is not calibrated may not be displaying the correct temperature and can lead to higher than normal energy bills.
Extended Life of Equipment
HVAC systems work at their peak performance when they are serviced regularly. Malfunction of the thermostat or any component of the air conditioner can elicit a chain reaction that could cause irreparable damage to the system. Regular preventative maintenance is the best way to extend the longevity of the equipment.
Safer Equipment
HVAC systems that are compromised are costly to repair and replace but are potentially very dangerous to human life. A short circuit in a HVAC system is a serious fire hazard and is ample reason to ensure that periodic recommended maintenance schedules are enforced.
Some ‘everyday’ maintenance tasks can be completed between scheduled calibration dates. These tasks include:
- Inspect the area around air intake and remove dirt and debris that may have accumulated on and around the outdoor unit.
- Foliage removal to at least 45 cms is recommended, and standing water must be cleared to eliminate the development of mould.
- Do not restrict airflow. Restricted airflow will significantly decrease HVAC system efficiency and will eventually compromise the reliability of system components.
- Ensure that the wall mounted panel/ indoor thermostat is free from dust.
ASG-X Technologies recommend scheduled maintenance and calibration of your thermostat at least every twelve months. However, home and business owners should consider bi-annual maintenance checks and calibration to be undertaken in Spring and Autumn in preparation for extreme temperatures. Regular calibration and maintenance alleviate the risk of system failure during the hottest or coldest times of the year. Companies such as ASG-X offer temperature calibration services whenever and wherever you need them, whether on-site or in our state-of-the-art facilities Australia-wide.