Throughout the summer season, the HVAC equipment in our homes gets a lot of use as we desperately attempt to stay cool while the sun is beating down on us. Now that summer is winding down, it’s time to once again start thinking about back-to-school HVAC maintenance that will keep everything running smoothly and help lower monthly energy bills.
Here are a few quick tips that you can follow:
Schedule a System Tune-Up
The best way to keep your HVAC system running properly and efficiently all year round is to hire a qualified technician for annual maintenance and upkeep. A yearly visit will also improve its prolong the equipment’s operational lifespan.
Clean or Change Your Air Filter
Your system’s air filter is constantly stopping pollutants and other particulates from re-entering your home’s air as the equipment is running. The filter gets clogged up rather quickly, so be sure to check it once a month and either clean or change the filter, depending on the type that your system utilizes.
Look Around for Air Leaks
Even small air leaks will force your HVAC equipment to run longer than it might typically need, which will waste a great deal of energy and increase your monthly energy bills. Two of the most common places to find leaks are around the edges of doors and windows. Fix these trouble areas with caulking or weather stripping. The next place you should check is your home’s ductwork, where holes and tears can develop over time.
Remove Debris from the Outdoor Unit
If your system has an outdoor unit, there’s a good chance that dirt and debris has collected around it, often including such things as branches, leaves bird’s nests, animal droppings, and more. Since this can cause your HVAC system to run inefficiently, be sure to grab a hose and wash the unit down thoroughly.
If you’d like to know more about back-to-school HVAC maintenance, or have other home comfort questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the friendly professionals at Ace Hardware Home Services. We’ve been servicing Dayton and the surrounding areas since 1978.
