### FAQs: HVAC Maintenance and Service

Q: How often should I change my air filter?

A: Monthly during peak seasons (summer cooling, winter heating), every 2-3 months during mild weather. Homes with pets, allergies, or dusty conditions may need monthly changes year-round.

Q: Is annual professional maintenance really necessary?

A: For systems under warranty, yes - it's often required. For all systems, annual maintenance extends life 5-10 years and prevents 80% of breakdowns. The cost is far less than emergency repairs.

Q: Should I repair or replace my old HVAC system?

A: Replace if repair costs exceed 50% of replacement value, system is 15+ years old, or requires frequent repairs. Newer systems are 20-40% more efficient than 10+ year old equipment.

Q: Why is my energy bill increasing if usage hasn't changed?

A: Common causes include dirty filters, failing equipment, duct leaks, thermostat problems, or refrigerant leaks. Start with filter replacement, then schedule professional diagnosis.

Q: Can I perform my own HVAC maintenance?

A: Filter changes, basic cleaning, and visual inspections are DIY-friendly. Refrigerant work, electrical repairs, and gas appliance service require professional training and licensing.

Q: What's the ideal temperature setting for efficiency?

A: 78°F cooling, 68°F heating when home. Each degree toward outdoor temperature saves 6-8% on energy costs. Use programmable thermostats for automatic adjustment.

Q: How do I know if my ducts need sealing?

A: Signs include uneven temperatures, dusty rooms, high energy bills, and rooms that never reach desired temperature. Professional duct testing costs $200-$400 and identifies leakage rates.

Q: Should I close vents in unused rooms?

A: Generally no - most systems are designed for balanced airflow. Closing too many vents can strain the system. Consider zoning systems for true room-by-room control.

Your HVAC system represents one of your home's largest investments and ongoing expenses. The homeowners who enjoy 20+ year equipment life, low energy bills, and reliable comfort are those who treat HVAC maintenance as a non-negotiable annual expense.

The choice is simple: spend $300 per year on professional maintenance or spend $8,000+ every 10 years on premature replacement. Smart homeowners choose prevention, enjoy better comfort, and keep thousands of dollars in their pockets where it belongs.# Chapter 9: Roof Inspection Checklist: What to Look for Each Season

SHOCKING FACT: Roof problems cost American homeowners over $5.2 billion annually, with the average roof repair costing $8,000 and full replacement reaching $25,000-$50,000. Yet 89% of homeowners never inspect their roofs until problems become visible inside their homes – by which time repair costs have multiplied 10-fold. A simple seasonal roof inspection costing zero dollars can prevent 90% of major roof problems.

Your roof is your home's first line of defense against nature's assault, yet it's the most neglected component of most homes. Professional roof inspections cost $200-$600, but learning to conduct safe, effective seasonal inspections yourself can identify problems when they're $100 fixes instead of $10,000 disasters.

This chapter provides your complete roof inspection system, teaching you what to look for, when to look, and how to spot the warning signs that prevent catastrophic damage to your home's structure and contents.