Your HVAC system is one of the most critical components of your home that keeps you comfortable in the winter and cool in the summer. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t invest in preventative HVAC maintenance and end up needing emergency repairs. Here are some ways that you can take care of the HVAC system throughout the year.
Change the Filters for HVAC Maintenance
The filters on your HVAC unit help prevent hair, dust, and other debris from entering your furnace or air conditioning system. When these filters are clogged, the system has to work harder to overcome the reduced airflow. This can lead to higher power bills and lower energy efficiency. Change your air filters at least every 90 days. You should consider changing filters once a month if you have:
- poor outdoor air quality with contaminants like smoke or industrial pollution
- pets, particularly those who shed frequently
- allergies
- high usage of your heating or cooling system
- more than four people living in your home
Keep the Vents Open
While it might be counterintuitive, it’s a good idea to keep your vents open, even in rooms that you are not occupying. When you are heating your home, the heat will evenly distribute throughout the space. That means that heated air will still get into rooms with closed vents, but your furnace will work harder to reach the set temperature. In addition to regular HVAC maintenance, practice good daily habits like leaving the vents open.
Clean the Ductwork Regularly
To get the most out of your investment in HVAC maintenance, maintain the ductwork. Over time, debris, dust, and allergens will accumulate in the ducts. Cleaning will remove these things and prevent them from recirculating in your home. Duct cleaning is a great idea if your home seems dustier than usual, you hear strange noises from your HVAC system, or you are experiencing frequent allergy symptoms indoors.
Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance
While there are some HVAC maintenance tasks you can handle on your own, there are others that are best left to the professionals. When you schedule preventative maintenance, your technician can handle:
- checking the safety controls and other system controls
- ensuring the thermostat is properly calibrated
- tightening connections
- lubricating moving parts to reduce wear and tear
- cleaning the condensate drain
- inspecting the heat exchanger and burner combustion
- examining the evaporator and condenser coils
Working with a professional will help you get the most out of your heating and cooling system.
Jamie Schaefer Professional Home Inspector offers inspections in Southeast Florida, Ocala, Florida, and the New York Metropolitan Area. Contact us to request our services.