8 HVAC Maintenance Tips To Prevent Costly Repairs

When you have a central heating and cooling system at home, it can maintain a comfortable temperature all year round. It’s crucial to schedule some preventative maintenance every six months to maintain the optimum condition throughout the year. If you want to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home, especially during the summer or winter season when blistering heat and freezing conditions arise, make sure that you have a well-maintained HVAC system.

Always remember that the frequency of the HVAC system maintenance will vary on the specific components. Some of the system parts generally need servicing, at least, once in a year, while others require thorough cleaning or replacement two times in a year.

If you want to make sure that your HVAC system in your home will run efficiently throughout the year, here are several maintenance tips to prevent costly repairs:

  1. Regular Professional Maintenance

A regular maintenance schedule from a professional is vital to avoid costly repairs. A professional will carefully assess the HVAC system and ensure that it functions at optimum condition. If you’re eager to find out more about HVAC repair Ashburn VA, several reputable providers are worth checking out.

An inspection by a professional might include any of the following:

  • Cleaning of the coils
  • Check if the fan is operating optimally
  • Inspect or replace the air filter
  • Clean the drain lines
  • Assess the refrigerant level
  • Check for leaks in the heat exchanger

Depending on your preferences, the check-up can be a one-time event or set yearly as part of a regular maintenance schedule. A yearly professional check-up will ensure that the HVAC system in your home will not deteriorate when you require it the most, especially during the summer and winter seasons.

When you have your system serviced, it usually involves a thorough inspection and cleaning of all components and ensuring they function optimally to prevent skyrocketing utility bills and costly unexpected repair bills.

  1. Inspection Of The Filter

Once there is an excessive buildup of dirt and dust in the air filters, it can result in operation issues with the heating and cooling system. It’s vital to ensure that the air filters under regular inspections and cleaning or even changing them as needed.

In case your system has reusable filters, pull out the tray and carefully clean it using a soft towel and some mild soap. If you can reuse the filters, you have to change them frequently. Remember to replace the filter every 30-90 days.

  1. Cleaning The Heat Pump

Depending on your area’s weather conditions, there’s a likelihood of excessive buildup of dirt and debris in an outdoor HVAC system. Once the HVAC system gets dirty, it’ll take a longer time to produce the suitable cold or hot air to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home at all times.

A clean HVAC system will work more effectively and can significantly save on your monthly utility bills. With this in mind, make sure that there is no debris on the sides or top of the heat pump or the air conditioning unit. You should keep the heat pump and the outdoor unit clean regularly to prevent the buildup of debris, leaves, pollen, and twigs.

  1. Clean The Vents

If you have a ducted HVAC system, it’s essential to regularly vacuum the vents to prevent dirt and dust from blocking airflow. Make sure that the vents don’t have any obstruction, such as furniture or other household objects. If there’s a need to climb up the vents, ensure that ladders and other equipment are safely used.

Don’t forget to check the airflow to ensure that it’s not weak. Once there is insufficient airflow, it might be best to call a professional for an inspection.

  1. Regulate The Thermostat

It’s also essential to regulate the thermostat to help save on the utility bills. Once you set the temperature at a high level, but the house doesn’t get warm enough, it’s a clear sign of a faulty thermostat. In such instances, it might be time to replace the manual thermostat with a programmable model.

When you have a programmable thermostat, you can adjust the temperature settings according to your needs. It works by lowering the temperature while you’re sleeping and raising it before everyone wakes up.

  1. Clean The Outside Unit

Most homeowners often overlook the outside unit of the HVAC system, but it has an important role and requires monthly maintenance. You must inspect to ensure that the outdoor unit is free of any dirt or debris like twigs or leaves. Make sure to cut back any shrubs and plants by, at least, three feet.

When cleaning the outside unit, wipe down the inside and outside of the unit to eliminate any dirt buildup. If necessary, you can wash any buildup away by spraying water from a garden hose gently.

  1. Inspect The Ductwork

If there is ductwork, you should set regular inspections by a professional for any obstructions. Over time, it’s likely for debris to accumulate within the air ducts, which can disrupt the airflow. It can cause the system to strain and eventually function poorly in the long run. The ducts can also trap dust, dander, and even pests or end up with leaks in which air can escape.

  1. Check The Condensate Line

The heating and cooling system condensate lines don’t usually develop any blockages if they receive regular tune-ups every spring and fall. Make sure that the moisture is draining via the condensate lines and dripping on the ground outside.

Once you notice the presence of puddles around the furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump, it’s a clear indication of an obstruction in the drain line that requires further assessment by a professional.

Conclusion

There are several reasons regular HVAC maintenance is essential. When you have a well-maintained system, it’ll be less hassle on your part while avoiding unnecessary expenses along the way. Once you detect even minor issues with your HVAC system at home, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional to check it out just in case. With the help of these valuable tips, costly repairs can be prevented while keeping your HVAC system in good shape at all times.


Administrator Author