As a homeowner, there’s nothing more frustrating than having your HVAC system break down just when you need it the most.
An improperly maintained heating and cooling system not only leads to inefficient energy usage. It also has the potential to cause safety hazards like carbon monoxide leaks.
At times, though, it can be hard to know where to start with HVAC maintenance. That’s why we’ve put together this quick guide that will teach you everything you need to know about proper HVAC care so that you can keep your home comfortable all year round!
Table of Contents
Know Your System
By taking the time to learn about your system and how it works, you can save yourself money and frustration down the road. Your HVAC system is made up of three main components:
- furnace
- air conditioner
- ductwork
Each of these components has its function and needs to be properly maintained. The furnace is responsible for heating your home. It uses either natural gas or electricity to generate heat. This is then distributed through the ductwork to each room in your house.
Make sure to learn about your system and find out how they work and what needs to be maintained. So if you have a mini-split system, then learn more about concealed duct mini splits.
Schedule Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning and maintenance can help keep your system running smoothly and can save you money in the long run. To properly maintain your HVAC system, it is important to create a routine and schedule a regular cleaning. The cleaning requirements of your system depends on the type of system you have. Cleaning may include dusting and wiping down:
- vents
- filters
- fans
It is also important to check the refrigerant levels in your system and to inspect belts and other moving parts. Once a year you should also have your system professionally inspected and serviced to ensure that all components are in good working order and to prevent bigger problems down the road.
Change Air Filters
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your HVAC system is to change your air filters regularly. Depending on the type of system you have and the environment in which it is located, you may need to change your filters every month or two.
Central Air System
If you have a central air system, there are typically two types of air filters: those that are located in the return air duct and those that are located in the supply air duct. The return air filter is responsible for filtering out contaminants from the air that is being drawn into the system, while the supply air filter protects the equipment from dirt and other airborne particles.
Forced-air Heating or Cooling System
If you have a forced-air heating or cooling system, chances are that you have a disposable pleated filter that is located in the return-air duct. These filters should be changed every one to three months, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Implement Proper HVAC Maintenance
Proper HVAC maintenance is essential to ensure it operates efficiently and safely. Doing so can maximize comfort, reduce energy costs, and prolong the life of the system. Contact a certified expert today and inquire about preventative maintenance programs to ensure your system keeps running smoothly.
For more reads aside from these HVAC tips, visit our blog.
