In Berks County, winter is when you need your heater the most. Some years temperatures drop below zero. Add wind chill and your home’s temperature will drop rapidly when your heating system breaks down. Don’t let your family lose heat in the dead of winter. Use these HVAC care tips to help avoid some of these common problems.
Scheduling maintenance visits with B&L Ott will help keep your HVAC system working year round. However, if you do run into any issues, we also offer emergency repair services. A professional technician will find the source of the problem and recommend the best solution. If you take good care of your unit, though, you can decrease the number of repairs your system will need.
Lack of Maintenance
As with any machine, neglecting your furnace, heat pump or boiler will cause problems. To avoid problems, you should inspect your system and change its filter regularly. You should also schedule service with B&L Ott every year for a thorough inspection. Our monthly maintenance agreement is a popular choice among customers. It helps you track your heater’s health and keep it running year round.
When you schedule maintenance, we will clean all safeties and sensors. We will also check all major and minor components of the unit to ensure flawless operation. We can see problems forming and recommend fixes. This will ensure that you don’t have a break down when you need your system. You will also save money in the long run by preventing costly repairs.
Clogged Filters
A dirty filter can wreak havoc on your heating unit by restricting airflow and suffocating the system. Clogged filters can lead to overheating, blower failure, and improper airflow. When these problems get neglected for too long, your system will likely fail prematurely.
To avoid these problems, be sure to change your filters as specified in the owner’s manual. Generally, 1” filters should be checked and replaced every 30 days. However, some filters last longer than others. Changing your filter too often can also damage your system. If you are unsure, we recommend scheduling an appointment with one of our technicians to learn how to properly care for your heater. If you experience problems due to a clogged filter, be sure to contact B&L Ott for maintenance and repairs.
Weathering
Weather may cause your unit to break down over time. In this case, you may notice decreased efficiency and higher energy bills. When parts deteriorate, they will not work with the same precision. This makes your HVAC to work harder. In harsh conditions, damaged parts may lead to a system failure. To avoid these problems, schedule regular maintenance services with B&L Ott. We will clear the built up debris to prevent problems such as clogging and rust.
You may also want to consider buying a protective cover for your outdoor unit. This will keep out snow, ice, and leaves. Protective covers can be an effective way to preserve your system. However, it is important to know that covers can NOT be used with heat pumps. Also, they can only be used with air conditioners when they are turned off. Running a unit with the cover on WILL cause extensive damage. Be sure to contact B&L Ott before putting a cover on any Trane brand unit.
Thermostat Malfunctions
Age or improper installation can cause your thermostat to malfunction. Your home’s temperature should be within 3-5 degrees of the set temperature. If the numbers are not accurate, your thermostat may need to be repaired or replaced. However, it is difficult to determine if your thermostat is malfunctioning. Call B&L Ott to have a trained technician help you.
Age
The best way to extend your HVAC system’s life is to perform proper maintenance to prevent wear and tear. B&L Ott can provide any type of upkeep or repairs you may need. If you notice more breakdowns or higher utility bills, your system may be nearing the end of its life. Talk to a well-trained technician who knows what to look for. They will notice even the smallest details that indicate that your system is nearing total failure.
You may want to consider system replacement planning. This B&L Ott service helps you plan for the eventual breakdown of your system. We can help you choose a new model and schedule the installation. The replacement will be on your time when you are ready. You won’t have to experience a complete shut down at the most inopportune time. B&L Ott’s system replacement planning service gives you the time you need to plan and saves you stress.
