HVAC tips to keep your system running properly.
Your home’s HVAC system is an integral part of maintaining a comfortable temperature and indoor air quality. If one of its components is damaged or wears out, you really have no choice besides getting it fixed as soon as possible. Depending on how severe the problem is, this could prove to be quite pricey, so we’re going to give you some easy-to-follow HVAC maintenance tips that will help you avoid costly repairs.
Clean or Replace the Air Filter
When air filters get dirty or clogged, your system won’t work as efficiently and will need to run longer and possibly work harder to get the job done.
To avoid this, check the filter once per month. Reusable air filters can be washed periodically and then replaced every three months. If it isn’t reusable, you’ll simply need to replace when it gets too dirty. Also, consider using a HEPA filter to avoid allergies and respiratory issues.
Clean the Condenser or Heat Pump
Another reason why your HVAC system may be forced to work harder is because your outdoor air conditioner’s condenser or heating system’s heat pump has become clogged with dust and debris. You can have anything from leaves and branches to trash and birds’ nests clogging up the unit. Luckily, they’re easy to clean. Remove any large items by hand and then use a hose to spray it off, paying attention to the crevices between the unit’s fins.
Upgrade Home to Smart Devices
Today’s HVAC devices – including air conditioners, furnaces, and even thermostats – are much more advanced than their predecessors. Smart thermostats, for instance, will allow you to program when your system is running and can provide you with detailed energy usage reports. With modern HVAC systems, you can be alerted as to when the filter needs to be changed and other advanced features that will help you avoid damage.
Sign Up for a Maintenance Plan
With every piece of HVAC equipment, annual maintenance is recommended to keep your system running strong and to extend its operational lifespan. The most effective way to accomplish this is to sign up for a preventative maintenance plan with a reputable HVAC company. This will allow you to pinpoint any problems much more quickly, thereby avoiding expensive repairs.
Clean the Condensate Drain Lines
In addition to cooling your home, an air conditioner also removes moisture from the air, which accumulates in the system’s condensate drain lines before being directed outside. As you might expect, these drain lines can become clogged with various types of debris such as dirt, dust, algae, and mold. Cleaning these drain lines periodically will help avoid system issues due to clogging.
Pay Attention to Your Utility Bill
Your monthly energy bills will often serve as an indicator that something is not quite right with your HVAC system. If you notice that your heating or cooling costs have risen from the previous year and you can’t explain it, then you may have a technical issue that you’ll want to fix before it gets worse. This can help save money on both costly repairs and your utility payments.
Schedule a Ductwork Inspection
Maintaining your home’s ductwork is essential for delivering quality indoor air to each room of your household. When the ductwork has been damaged, your system is likely to run for longer than it should because too much air is leaking out. You should schedule a ductwork inspection every few years, especially if your HVAC system doesn’t seem to be working as efficiently as it has in the past.
Clean Your Vents to Reduce Dust
If your home uses ductwork as its delivery system, that means it also uses a series of vents. As you’re probably already aware, these vents can get covered with dust and may even get clogged up. Cleaning the vents on a regular basis will help prevent dust from getting spread around while simultaneously maintaining healthy airflow to help ensure that your HVAC system isn’t overworked.
Contact ACHV Services for More HVAC Maintenance Tips
By following these simple HVAC maintenance tips, you’ll more easily be able to avoid costly repairs. If you have any questions or would like a free, no-obligation quote for HVAC services, contact the ACHV services team at (727) 453-2432 today.
