Your HVAC system is a major investment, so you want to be certain a comprehensive warranty backs it. With strong coverage, you’ll be protected from having to pay significant material and labor fees when your equipment experiences issues. Keep in mind that manufacturers usually have terms to keep your warranty valid. How you use and maintain your HVAC system can affect the validity of your coverage.
Here a local AC repair expert shares a few of the mistakes you should avoid in order to keep your HVAC warranty valid.
Not registering your equipment. For your warranty to remain valid, you need to register your equipment after installation. Typically, manufacturers have a deadline for registration. It should be one of the first things you do after getting your new HVAC system. Moreover, some installers can do this for you, so ask your technician about this matter.
Poor HVAC installation. Your HVAC system can encounter various problems if your contractor didn’t install it correctly. It’s also likely that your equipment will fail early due to poor installation. Be sure to only work with a qualified technician for your HVAC needs. This helps your system avoid early failure and prevents unnecessary repair costs.
Failing to maintain the unit regularly. Regular maintenance is essential in keeping your HVAC system in good shape and prolonging its lifespan. Routine care also aids in improving the performance of your equipment. It’s common for HVAC warranties to lose their validity due to improper maintenance. Make sure to hire an experienced contractor for your residential and commercial HVAC needs. At Air Products & Services, you can depend on us for quality AC repair and maintenance services.
Hiring the wrong contractor. It’s essential to hire a trained, licensed, qualified contractor for your HVAC system installation. Your warranty is at risk of being voided if it isn’t installed or repaired by an experienced professional. When looking for a technician, always do your research, check customer feedback, and ask for proof of licensing. Keep in mind that the longevity and efficiency of your equipment hugely depends on your contractor.
Using mismatched or incompatible parts. Your air conditioning replacement contractor must use the right parts on your equipment to keep your warranty valid. Manufacturers won’t offer a warranty for parts that are made by other companies. This is the reason most HVAC warranties lose their validity due to installing unauthorized parts. Also, if you get a new furnace without replacing the AC or vice versa, your warranty will become invalid because a newer system can’t share parts with an older system.
Not documenting your annual maintenance. Your manufacturer may also require you to keep a record of your annual tune-ups as proof they were completed. When you need an AC repair, they’ll request to see the documentation of your maintenance. They may also ask for proof that you used only the approved replacement parts and that professionals did the installation, replacement and repairs. It’s also a good idea to document any work or purchases that involve your HVAC system.
Hire a licensed contractor. Experts suggest obtaining at least three estimates to help you find the right contractor for your air conditioning replacement. When comparing quotes, don’t simply consider the price: be mindful of the experience and expertise of the technicians as well. Cutting corners will do more harm than good to your HVAC system. For example, an untrained or unlicensed contractor may not install your equipment correctly, resulting in poor efficiency and frequent breakdowns. When it comes to problems related to improper installation, your manufacturer won’t be held liable.
Maintain your HVAC system regularly. Routine HVAC inspections help extend the life of your equipment by detecting problems while they’re small. By addressing minor issues, you can prevent them from evolving into major problems that can affect the system’s efficiency. Maintenance is the most common thing that manufacturers consider when you file a claim on your warranty. Before your technician installs a component on your system, check to see if the part is authorized for your equipment. Reliable contractors only use parts approved by the manufacturer.
Keep a record of all work involving your HVAC system. Besides hiring the right contractor, it’s also essential to hang onto all the paperwork involving your HVAC system. Keep all receipts from the installation and a record of maintenance. Doing so will help keep your warranty valid. You can present these documents as proof that you hired a credible contractor for your HVAC maintenance or AC system troubleshooting if the need arises.
While having a strong HVAC warranty is great, you want to avoid having to use it as much as possible. With good heating and cooling habits, you can keep your equipment performing at peak efficiency. You’ll also save money on repair and replacement costs. Below are tips to help you avoid common HVAC problems.
Replace HVAC filters regularly. A filthy HVAC filter can restrict airflow in your HVAC system, putting a strain on your equipment and causing it to work harder than it should. As a result, your energy bills will increase, and your HVAC system will be at risk of damage. To avoid these problems, make it a habit to clean or replace your HVAC filter regularly. Your technician can recommend the ideal schedule for your air filter replacements.
Check refrigerant levels. During your routine tune-ups, your HVAC technician will check refrigerant levels and look for leaks in the coils and refrigerant lines. They’ll also seal any leaks and add more refrigerant. If you think that your equipment las low refrigerant, contact a local HVAC professional.
Keep your HVAC system clean. Make sure that your HVAC system is kept clean, inside and out. Have a professional clean both your indoor and outdoor equipment. Debris buildup on your outdoor equipment can compromise the efficiency of the entire system. Keep shrubs, grass and outdoor plants trimmed away from your outdoor unit to ensure good airflow.
For your AC system troubleshooting and replacement needs, turn to Air Products & Services. Our experienced team is committed to delivering superior air conditioning and heating services. Call us at (818) 989-2030 or fill out our contact form to request a service or an estimate. We assist clients in Tarzana, CA, and nearby communities.