5 Important HVAC Maintenance Tips to Prevent Expensive Repairs
Did you know that regular HVAC maintenance can add years to the life of your system? Plus, it prevents expensive repairs and makes your HVAC more efficient. As an example, simply changing your air filter as needed can lower your home’s energy consumption by 15%.
Conversely, what happens if you fail to maintain your HVAC? Your system works harder, consumes more energy, wears out faster, and breaks down more often.
We don’t want that to happen to you. So, we’ve created the most straightforward HVAC maintenance checklist you’ll ever read.
In fact, you can actually follow most of these steps as you read this. This guide also explains when to schedule professional HVAC services. Get started right now.
1. Change Your Air Filter Regularly
Your HVAC’s air filter traps dust and other contaminants as the fan circulates the air. But when the filter is full, it blocks the airflow.
Then, the system has to work harder to push the air through your house. This consumes more energy while simultaneously wearing down your HVAC.
Plus, the system won’t cool or heat your house as well when it’s clogged by a dirty air filter. Your indoor air will be dirtier, too, since it’s no longer being filtered.
Fortunately, it’s extremely easy to prevent these problems. Simply access your air filter and check what size it is. Buy a new filter for under $10 and replace the old one.
Do this every 1-3 months, checking it every month. You need to replace it more often during months of heavy HVAC use.
2. Test Your Thermostat Twice Per Year
A malfunctioning/improperly set thermostat can overwork your system. Test all the features and programmable settings of the thermostat each spring and fall.
Set it properly (AUTO, not ON) so that it doesn’t run all the time. Make sure other household members don’t fiddle with the settings without your knowledge. If the thermostat is malfunctioning, replace it.
3. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
Since the HVAC fan is located outside, it can become blocked with weeds and debris. This could damage the unit if left unchecked.
Check the outdoor unit every month or so to keep it clear. If there are any weeds or plants growing next to it, remove them or keep them trimmed.
Shut off the system and remove any debris you see, if you can reach it. Call for professional help if necessary.
4. Clean the Return Vents
The return vents draw in air from your house and send it to the outdoor compressor unit. Sometimes, though, these vents get clogged with dust.
Clear them off as needed with a broom or a long-handled duster. (The return vents are usually located up high, on ceilings or walls.)
5. Get Professional HVAC Maintenance
Get a professional inspection/tuneup twice a year, (spring and fall). You can usually sign up for affordable maintenance plans from reputable HVAC services like hvactricks.com.
Also, get repairs as soon as you notice a problem. These steps will keep your HVAC efficient and extend its lifespan.
Remember These Home HVAC Maintenance Tips
Don’t let this HVAC maintenance advice go to waste. Prevent expensive repairs by following these tips.
Next, learn how to tint windows at home, remove water damage from carpets, and more. Find these and other informative topics on our Home Improvement blog.
