HVAC is a year-round requirement. These systems keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It’s best to perform routine HVAC maintenance to avoid breakdowns and catch problems early.
It’s expensive to replace an HVAC system. As a result, it’s critical to follow the essential HVAC maintenance tips.
Let’s look at the steps you should regularly take to keep your HVAC running smoothly.
Clean the Heat Pump or Condenser
Heat pumps and outdoor air conditioners can get clogged, which makes them work harder to produce cold and warm air for your home.
Cleaning the condenser and heat pump reduces the possibility of internal component damage. Check the tops and sides of your outdoor air-conditioning pumps for debris. Use your garden hose to clean out the fins, making sure to get in between the crevices.
Check the Filter
Changing the filter is one of the easiest ways to improve the air conditioner’s efficiency, lower energy costs, and reduce the likelihood of needing repairs.
Check your filter once a month to ensure it’s not dirty or clogged. The filter should be changed once every three months.
If you have a reusable filter, gently clean it with a soft cloth before cleaning it with mild soap and water. A HEPA or hypoallergenic filter is recommended if you or your family suffers from allergies.
Professional Check-Ups on A Regular Basis
A check-up entails an on-site visit from an HVAC technician who will inspect the HVAC system and ensure it operates at peak efficiency. The inspection may include the following:
– Ensuring that the fan is operational
– Coil cleaning
– Examining the air filter
– Drain line cleaning
– Checking the refrigerant level
– Examining the heat exchanger for leaks
A professional check-up is only required once a year and assists households in preventing HVAC breakdowns.
Clean the Drain Lines
The air conditioner also removes moisture from the air. This moisture accumulates in the air conditioner’s drain lines. Drain lines can become clogged over time as dirt and dust accumulate, allowing algae and mold to grow.
Periodically remove the outer cover of the air conditioner and clean the drain line with a clean cloth. Remove any mold that has formed by rinsing it with water and vinegar.
Maintaining the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit is constantly exposed to weather, dirt and debris, and vegetation, all of which can prevent exhaust air from leaving the unit.
Keep an eye on the area around the outdoor unit for any bushes or leaves that need to be trimmed. This is a do-it-yourself project that will save you a lot of money.
Get a Smart AC Controller or Thermostat
By making your HVAC system smart, you can gain access to additional features that can help in maintenance. For instance, smart thermostats or smart AC controllers enable you to keep track of your usage and get alerts whenever your AC might require filter cleaning.
You can activate your HVAC systems with other modes, such as scheduling or geofencing. This ensures that the system operates efficiently and that no energy is wasted.
