As Suffolk County’s most trusted HVAC service provider, Burt’s Reliable knows the heating and cooling systems of eastern Long Island. Homeowners often ask us how necessary regular maintenance is for their heating and cooling equipment.

Let’s discuss the importance of regular HVAC service and what can happen if you skip it.

How often do I need to service my HVAC equipment?

In general, you should schedule heating and cooling tune-ups once a year. However, there are some instances where this may not be necessary. For example, if you have a vacation home that sits empty for half the year, you may get by with less frequent service for the off-season system.

We recommend that you arrange HVAC service when you aren’t using your equipment. The winter is an excellent time to schedule an air conditioning tune-up. Similarly, heating equipment tune-ups in summer are a good idea. That way, you don’t need to shut down your heating or cooling when you need it most, and it will be ready to turn on well before you need it. You don’t need to worry about maintenance “wearing off.”

However, if you haven’t had maintenance on your heating equipment in a while, don’t put off a tune-up until summer. It’s better to arrange service now so you don’t find yourself needing a sudden HVAC repair.

What happens if I skip HVAC service?

Heating and cooling system tune-ups are like annual physicals. They allow skilled and experienced professionals an opportunity to look at the system’s overall health, fix any minor or lingering issues and do the necessary work to keep things working efficiently.

Just like with an annual physical, you skip your yearly HVAC service at your own peril. Here’s what can happen if your maintenance lapses.

Less comfort and higher fuel bills

HVAC systems become less effective over time. Heating equipment that’s over 10 years old might be functioning with less than 60 percent efficiency. You’ll use more oil to keep your home warm (and more electricity to stay cool in the summer). But regular maintenance helps your equipment perform better and use less energy overall. The result is better heating and cooling — and lower bills!

More frequent breakdowns and repairs

Did you know that four out of five heating system breakdowns could have been prevented with proper maintenance? When performing a tune-up on your HVAC system, our technician can fix small problems that could lead to repairs down the line. This will also slow the decline of your system’s effectiveness and prolong its lifespan.

A voided manufacturer’s warranty

Even if your equipment is covered by a manufacturer’s warranty, you need regular HVAC maintenance. Most warranties require an annual tune-up. If you skip it and need an HVAC repair, you could end up paying out of pocket for something the manufacturer would typically cover.

Burt’s Reliable is here to service your HVAC system

To ensure regular maintenance from a top-notch team of technicians, enroll in an affordable Burt’s Reliable service plan. With it, you’re guaranteed an annual tune-up, priority service and discounts on repairs.

Don’t put off your heating tune-up one more minute. Contact us today to request service!