You wouldn’t drive your car around for years without regular maintenance checks. In the same respect, the HVAC system in your home is an intricate machine that requires regular maintenance checks too. Make maintenance easy on yourself by following these tips on work that you just shouldn’t put off.
Open the Air Vents
HVAC systems are all about airflow. They need airflow across the evaporator coil, the outdoor condenser coil, and through the ductwork to the air vents. Start HVAC maintenance by checking all the air vents in your home to make sure they are open. Closed vents don’t save energy; they just block airflow.
Check the Air Filter
Air filters help keep vital components of your HVAC system clean and working properly. Be sure to change the air filteras specified by the manufacturer recommendations as an important element of your HVAC maintenance plan.
Inspect the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit of your HVAC system shouldn’t be ignored either. It needs free airflow through the fins to the condenser coil in order to cool and heat your home properly. Make sure there are no obstructions within 3 feet of the unit. Moreover, if you hear rattling noises or droning noises, contact your HVAC maintenance technician to inspect the unit.
Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance
Many HVAC contractors offer biannual HVAC maintenance tuneups. This helps so that you don’t forget maintenance going into the cooling and heating months. If you have a warranty on your HVAC system, professional HVAC maintenance could be a stipulation to keep it valid.
Here are some of the key points your HVAC technician checks during professional maintenance visits:
- Blower motor. Is there too much of a pressure drop at the blower motor? This could shorten the life span of the HVAC system and increase energy expenses. It’s an important check.
- Coolant. Refrigerant levels are checked to make sure there are no leaks in the evaporator, condenser, and copper tubing.
- Electrical. Electrical components are tested to ensure they don’t need replacing.
For questions about these HVAC maintenance tips or to schedule professional maintenance, contact Ace Hardware Home Servicestoday.
