Tips for Maintaining Your Home HVAC System
By Ryan Rosen
Most of the time, you ignore your HVAC system. It heats, it cools, and you’re happy. If you’re avoiding regular maintenance, however, you could be in for a nasty surprise at the worst possible time. Keeping your system running at top performance means avoiding costly repairs and extending its lifespan, plus you save on energy costs.
With a little TLC, you can handle some upkeep with your system to fill in for the times when you don’t really need a pro. Today, McLean Living shares a few tips for maintaining your HVAC system.
Protect Your Outdoor Unit
In the spring, clear any debris from a two-foot area around the AC unit and trim shrubs and trees so they don’t compromise air flow. Wash the outside of the unit in the spring and check for rust and decay. One way to protect your unit is to get a cover for the off-season. This will keep leaves and other debris from collecting in and around the unit.
Cleaning the Unit
If you opt to clean out the unit yourself, be sure to turn off the electricity to the unit before opening it. Once you get into the unit, clean the fan blades so dust and debris aren’t blowing back into your house. Be sure to put everything back in place and secure it before turning the power back on. And when surveying your unit, make a point to check all the lines and hoses for wear. If you find any worn or defective pieces, you’ll likely need to call in a professional.
Filter Maintenance
You need to change the filter on a regular basis, about every three months for most homes, but if you have pets, you should change your filter every month. Be sure to choose the right filter; a filter that doesn’t fit properly won’t work and can actually cause damage. If you’re unsure what type and size filter you need, consult an HVAC company and follow their recommendations. Many filters are available at local home stores, but you can find odd sizes online.
Filter Maintenance
Turn the thermostat a few degrees up in the summer and a few degrees down in the winter to give your HVAC unit a break, as doing so can add years to the unit’s performance. Better yet, install a programmable thermostat to allow your system to run more efficiently. By making these small adjustments, you’ll not only save on energy bills but also contribute to a greener environment.
HVAC Repair
Using a home maintenance and repair app to connect with qualified HVAC experts offers unparalleled convenience and efficiency. With just a few taps, you can access a network of certified professionals, read reviews, and schedule appointments that fit your timetable. A reliable app enables you to easily manage your home repair projects. This seamless connection saves you time and guarantees that your HVAC system is serviced by experienced and trustworthy experts.
HVAC Replacement
When considering the replacement of an HVAC system, homeowners should be prepared to finance a potential solution, with costs ranging significantly based on the type and size of the unit, its energy efficiency, and additional needs like ductwork. It’s also wise to research financing options or rebates that may be available to offset some of the expenses. These costs can stretch from a few thousand dollars for an individual unit to over $30,000 for a full system replacement. Consulting with multiple contractors can help ensure you get the best value for your investment.
Deciding when to replace your HVAC system can be tricky, with signs like unusual sounds, frequent repairs, inconsistent temperatures, and rising energy bills indicating it might be time for an upgrade. Modern systems not only improve reliability but also offer enhanced energy efficiency, potentially lowering utility bills despite the initial expenditure.
To confirm your system is firing on all cylinders, it’s best to make an appointment to have your system inspected twice a year. Having a professional come in ensures you are able to tackle any problems before they worsen. You probably don’t have the tools or the training to clean inside the ductwork every four years or repair leaky refrigerant lines, so leave those things to the experts. However, a savvy homeowner can do lots of indoor and outdoor maintenance on a home HVAC system to keep it in top-performing shape.
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