New heating and cooling systems are expensive. In areas like North Dakota and Minnesota, heat isn’t an option; it’s a life-saving necessity. Yet many people let their system’s efficiency degrade because of lack of maintenance. It’s like buying a new car and never getting the oil changed or replacing worn tires. Postponing maintenance does not save money — in the long run, it will cost much more as expensive, but preventable, repairs must be done.
A well-maintained system will run more efficiently and last longer. Efficiency translates into lower utility and fuel bills, and who wants to spend more than necessary. The unit will not have to work as hard to keep the building warm or cool. In fact, research has shown that a poorly maintained unit must work 20% harder to achieve the same level of heating or cooling. Machine components become stressed and will need to be repaired or replaced sooner. All of that is costing money that didn’t need to be spent.
A properly maintained system will last more than 10 years. How much longer depends a great deal on how well maintained the unit has been. Breakdowns are most likely to happen during the periods when the units are used (and needed) the most: summer and winter. Elderly people and children are especially vulnerable to lack of heat or cooling.
Warranties may still be in force for questionable parts. It’s a good idea to list all the warranty expiration dates that apply to different parts or components of the system and have those parts checked prior to expiration. Often, there is no cost attached to fixing parts while they are still under warranty. Routine maintenance checks are very useful in keeping up-to-date on warranties.
robert gibb & sons are Plumbers in Fargo and Williston, ND, Moorhead, MN and the surrounding areas. For almost 100 years, this company has been providing plumbing, heating and cooling solutions for their new and long-time customers. In emergencies, they are available 24/7. Every job is equally important to them, whether it is the installation of a new system or maintenance of an existing one. Their trained and experienced technicians can capably handle any plumbing, electrical, water and sewer, heating and air conditioning problem. The company offers $20 off every service call, forever, to customers who have a Gibb Sticker attached to their furnace or water heater.
