To ensure your HVAC system is running smoothly, perform regular HVAC maintenance on its components. While cleaning out the filter once a month is a good start, there are other aspects of HVAC maintenance that many homeowners tend to overlook. The following tips will help you keep your heating and cooling system running at peak performance:
1. Get an HVAC Service Contract
An HVAC service contract is a long-term agreement between you, the homeowner, and your heating and cooling contractor. It ensures you get the most out of your system by keeping it in good working order.
I always renew my service contract from my service provider of HVAC in Bucks County, PA. It’s usually a yearly contract to go up to 3 years max. An HVAC service contract can include things like:
- Preventive HVAC maintenance on all major components of an air conditioning or heating system. It includes: checking filters and drain pans; ensuring that registers are clear; testing refrigerant levels; changing coolant if necessary, etc.
- Annual tune-ups for equipment such as fans, compressors, and furnaces require less frequent attention than other parts (like economizers).
- Emergency repairs when something goes wrong during the operation. For example, if there’s a leaky pipe or broken fixture somewhere inside the system could cause damage to other parts over time if left unchecked.
2. Change the Filter
Changing your HVAC filter once a month can help keep your air conditioner running efficiently. This will save you money on energy costs.
It also prevents mold and bacteria from growing in the system, which can cause serious issues for homeowners with asthma or allergies. If you don’t change it yourself, ask someone who knows how to change filters to do it for you.
3. Clear the Condensate Drain
The condensate drain is a small pipe that connects your HVAC unit to the main water line. It’s one of those things you might not even think about. But it’s important to keep clean to prevent clogging and damage to your system.
To check if there is any debris in the condensate drain, turn off the power at either side of your unit and then use a flashlight or other light source to look inside the pipe. If any foreign objects are blocking up this part of your HVAC unit, then you’ll want to clean them out as soon as possible before they cause problems.
If you don’t have access to your wall/ceiling tiles, don’t worry; there are other ways around this issue. One solution would be using paper towel rolls instead.
Just cut them open lengthwise into two sections and place them overtop each other like a sandwich. Slide one end into place between two pipes where needed most.
4. Clean the Equipment and Area Around It
Use a vacuum cleaner to clean dirt from the filters, coils, and evaporator coil. You can also use paper towels or cloths to wipe down any areas you don’t want to get wet with water.
Use brush attachments for cleaning grime from your roof vents and hard-to-reach places like window frames and light fixtures. They may be covered in debris from tree leaves falling off during autumn months when they drop their leaves off into your yard. If there is no way you can reach these items with a broom, try using an extension pole attachment instead.
5. Check the Air Flow
You can check your HVAC system’s airflow by using a fan. It will allow you to see if there are any holes in your ductwork. It also shows you how much airflow is being produced by the equipment.
If this is not working properly, then it could be causing problems with other areas of your house. For example, a lack of heat or AC in one room may affect others nearby if they share common ductwork.
6. Inspect the Compressor
If your HVAC system is not working properly, it could be due to the compressor. The compressors should be cleaned and inspected at least once a year to ensure they are free from dirt or debris.
If you notice any damage on the outside of your unit, even if it’s small, then immediately replace the entire unit with one that has been thoroughly cleaned.
If there are signs of leaking from the inside out, replace it immediately with another brand replacement part so that you no longer waste money on repairs!
7. Check Refrigerant Levels
If you’re ever unsure of your refrigerant levels, it’s always a good idea to check them. It will help ensure you’re not wasting money on unnecessary repairs and preventative maintenance measures.
You can check the levels by opening up the cap on your system and looking inside. If there are any leaks or holes in this area, they’ll be visible from above.
If there aren’t any obvious signs of damage, try turning off your HVAC system for about 30 seconds before checking again. It should allow any excess air pressure inside to escape through tiny holes in case there’s been some kind of leak nearby that hasn’t been fixed properly.
8. Check the Thermostat
Thermostats can be set too low. Thermostats vary in quality and complexity, but most have a way to adjust the temperature setting with a dial or switch on their face. If you notice that your thermostat is set below desired temperatures, it may be time for a replacement.
Thermostats can be set too high. In many cases, homeowners simply don’t know how hot their furnace is running and leave their air conditioners on all summer. They’re too lazy or forgetful (or both) to turn them off during winter when they use more electricity than needed.
Thermostats should be checked regularly by experienced technicians, so they don’t get out of whack from neglecting maintenance tasks. Also, check if there’s any dust or dirt accumulation inside them which could cause problems later when operating at peak performance levels/temperatures.
Timely Maintenance Can Save You Money
HVAC maintenance can save you money in costly repairs and replacements. For example, if your air conditioner or heat pump works properly, it will reduce the energy needed to keep your home comfortable. It means less money spent on electricity bills and more cash for other needs, like groceries or entertainment.
If you want to make sure that your system stays running smoothly, follow these tips:
- First, regularly clean any vents that may be clogged with dust or debris.
- Check for leaks by placing an empty cardboard box over each vent before opening it up.
- Keep an eye out for unusual sounds from the unit (like rattling).
Conclusion
HVAC maintenance is essential for keeping your home warm and healthy. However, it can be a costly and time-consuming task if you don’t do it right.
Thankfully, there are several easy ways to save yourself from expensive repairs. By following these tips, you can ensure your heating, cooling, and ventilation systems work as efficiently as possible all year long.