Geothermal Maintenance Checklist

Geothermal systems are quiet, efficient, environmentally friendly, and built to last. With their low operational costs, they can result in significant energy savings, and since they do not rely on flammable fossil fuels, they also offer increased safety. You won’t need to worry about hazards like toxic fumes, dangerous combustion gases, or poisonous carbon monoxide when utilizing this type of system. While installing a geothermal system can keep your home extremely comfortable, you will need to maintain it if you want to continue enjoying the benefits this kind of system offers. What do you need to do to maintain a geothermal system? Follow this geothermal maintenance checklist:

1. Change Your Air Filter: Dirty air filters force mechanical systems to work harder, negatively impacting their efficiency and creating unnecessary wear and tear that can shorten their lifespan. To keep your indoor environment clean and healthy, protect your heating and cooling system, and save money on your energy costs, it is vital that you change your air filter regularly. It’s an easy chore that generally only takes a few moments to complete, but it can make a major difference in the health of your geothermal system. Do you have trouble remembering to change your air filter? Consider scheduling an appointment for the task on your calendar.
2. Ensure That Your Ductwork Is Clean and in Good Working Order: Over time, dust, dirt, pollen, and other contaminates can build up in ductwork. This unpleasant debris can be transferred throughout your home when the heating or air kicks on, reducing the quality of your indoor air. Rips, tears, and breaks can also create problems for your heating system because they allow the heated or cooled air to end up in places other than those you want it. As a result, you may push your system to work harder in order to get the comfortable temperatures you desire in the spaces that you frequent. To help your system operate more efficiently, it is important to verify that your ductwork is still in good shape. However, ductwork can be fragile, so while you can certainly sound the alert if you spot a problem, it’s generally best to call in a professional to inspect, clean, and repair your ductwork.
3. Schedule Regular Professional Checkups for Your Geothermal System: A quality geothermal system that is properly sized and installed will normally function without troubling you for quite a while, but it’s always smart to schedule routine checkups from a trusted professional. These maintenance visits provide reassurance that all is functioning as it should. Perhaps more importantly, they allow you to spot any potential problem early. Much like routine dental cleanings involve less hassle and expense than root canals, identifying an issue with your heating and cooling system sooner rather than later will likely save you time, money, and frustration. What will a geothermal professional do during this checkup?
   • Check the various components of the system and clean them as necessary
   • Examine the drain pan and trap for blockages or leaks
   • Check the antifreeze level in the underground piping
   • Assess the condition of the underground piping
   • Repressurize the system if needed
   • Measure loop temperature, flow rate, pressure drop, and other factors to verify that the system is performing properly
   • Evaluate the condition of the coil
   • Look for corrosion and other red flags that might signal the approach of future problems
4. Contact a Professional Promptly If You Suspect a Problem Exists: Small problems tend to have fixes that are more affordable than large problems. In addition, a heating and cooling system that isn’t operating efficiently will likely leave you dealing with higher energy costs. Basically, there is no real benefit to waiting if you suspect that something is wrong with your heating and cooling system. If you notice changes in the way your system works, lights on the thermostat, unusual sounds, or damaged ductwork, contact a professional as soon as possible so that the situation can be corrected before the problem gets any worse.

When you need a reliable professional with the knowledge, skill, and experience to help you complete your geothermal maintenance checklist and keep your system humming, turn to Long Heating and Cooling. We aim to provide our customers with superior service, support, and dedication. To learn more about our services, call us at (888) 584-8138 (toll-free) or (417) 581-8138 (local), or visit our website.