How to properly maintain your HVAC system to extend its lifespan and improve efficiency
March 4, 2023
A home’s HVAC system is a crucial part of keeping it comfortable and safe year-round. However, it’s also a complex and expensive system that requires regular maintenance to ensure it’s operating efficiently and effectively. Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, improve its efficiency, and save you money on energy bills. In this article, we’ll go over some key tips on how to properly maintain your HVAC system.
Change Your Air Filters Regularly
One of the most important maintenance tasks you can do for your HVAC system is to regularly change the air filters. The air filters are responsible for trapping dust, dirt, and other particles in the air that can harm the system’s components or decrease its efficiency. Over time, these filters become clogged, making it more difficult for the HVAC system to circulate air throughout your home. This can cause your system to work harder, increasing energy usage and potentially leading to premature breakdowns.
Experts recommend changing your air filters at least every three months, but it’s best to check them monthly and change them as needed. If you have pets, live in a dusty area, or have family members with allergies or respiratory issues, you may need to change your filters more frequently.
Clean Your HVAC System Regularly
In addition to changing the air filters, it’s also important to regularly clean your HVAC system. Dust and debris can accumulate on the coils and other components of the system, reducing its efficiency and potentially causing damage. You can use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to remove debris from the coils, but be sure to turn off the power to the system first to avoid injury.
It’s also a good idea to clean the outside unit of your HVAC system, which can become clogged with dirt and debris from the environment. Use a hose to gently rinse off the unit and remove any debris that may be trapped in the fins. Be sure to turn off the power to the system before attempting to clean it.
Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
While changing the air filters and cleaning the system are important tasks you can do yourself, it’s also important to schedule regular HVAC maintenance with a professional technician. A trained technician can perform a comprehensive inspection of your system, identifying any potential issues and making necessary repairs or adjustments.
During a heating and cooling maintenance appointment, the technician will check the system’s components, including the blower motor, fan, compressor, and refrigerant levels. They will also check the thermostat and ensure that the system is operating at its optimal efficiency. By scheduling regular HVAC maintenance, you can catch any issues before they become major problems and ensure that your system is operating as efficiently as possible.
Check Your Ductwork
Your HVAC system’s ductwork is responsible for delivering conditioned air to different parts of your home. However, if the ductwork is damaged or poorly installed, it can cause leaks or blockages that decrease the system’s efficiency. Inspect your ductwork for any signs of damage, such as tears, holes, or disconnected sections, and repair or replace as needed.
It’s also a good idea to have your ductwork professionally cleaned every few years. Over time, dust, dirt, and other particles can accumulate in the ducts, reducing the system’s efficiency and potentially affecting indoor air quality. Professional duct cleaning can remove these contaminants, improve the system’s efficiency, and improve indoor air quality.
In conclusion, proper maintenance is key to keeping your HVAC system operating efficiently and effectively. By changing your air filters regularly, cleaning your system, scheduling regular HVAC maintenance, and checking your ductwork, you can extend the lifespan of your system, improve its efficiency, and save money on energy bills. Additionally, a well-maintained HVAC system can help