If you just had a new HVAC system installed, chances are the installer recommended an HVAC maintenance plan. Do you really need preventative maintenance? Neglected maintenance shortens system life. Short-term, some of these issues can cause headaches. Walls, floors, furnishings, and decorative finishes can be damaged by water leaks from air conditioning systems. Clogged drain lines and pans usually cause water leaks. Cleaning drain lines and pans regularly prevents water leaks in HVAC systems. Dust and debris are prevented from getting into your HVAC equipment by filters. Regularly clean or replace those filters. The filters can be cleaned or replaced yourself, but most homeowners prefer to have them serviced along with the rest of the system. There are two types of coils with sensitive fins in your air conditioning system that remove heat from the air in your space and release it outside. Cleaning the coils is part of many HVAC maintenance plans. To control the temperature in your space, you need proper airflow. Even new systems can experience reduced airflow. Your technician will check the airflow levels during regular maintenance and investigate the cause if low. HVAC technicians routinely check refrigerant levels during regular maintenance. Your technician will know if there is a leak if the level is off. You won’t know until your system stops cooling. In addition to preventing the problems mentioned here, an HVAC maintenance plan allows you to establish a relationship with a trusted service provider.