Maintaining your HVAC unit will not only prevent future problems but also save you money on both repairs and energy costs. Finding a contractor who will perform yearly pre-season checks can save you a lot of trouble with your unit. To save yourself the trouble of finding contractors during busy seasons such as beginning of winter and summer, have your heating unit checked during the fall and your cooling unit during spring.
Here are some tips on HVAC maintenance.
General Maintenance Check-up
- Adjust thermostat settings to ensure your heating and cooling systems keep you comfortable while in the house and that they save energy while you are out of the house.
- Fix all loose electrical connections to prevent accidents and to improve your unit’s life.
- Check your unit’s controls to ensure the start cycle, operation and shutting down processes are normal.
- Lubricate moving parts to reduce friction between different parts in your unit.
Cooling System Maintenance
- Clean condenser and evaporator coils. Failure to clean air conditioning coils will not only interfere with normal operations of your unit, but also increase energy costs.
- Check refrigerant levels. Too little or too much refrigerant will reduce your unit’s life as well as increase energy costs. You should therefore make the right adjustments to make sure these levels are just right.
- Adjust and clean blower components. This will improve airflow and at the same time increase efficiency.
Heating System Maintenance
Check the heat exchanger, burner combustion, gas pressure and all oil or gas connections. Improper oil or gas connections can easily cause fire outbreaks. A cracked exchanger or dirty burner can reduce your system’s efficiency and reduce its life.
DIY Tips
Check, clean or replace air filter. It is advised that you carry out these tasks every month on your heat pump, furnace and central air conditioner. Dirty filters can easily damage your unit and also increase energy costs. If you are not sure how to clean or replace your filters, get some tips from your contractor or simply consult your user manual. Follow us for more great articles on heating, air conditioning and home needs.
