Essential HVAC Care Guide
Most homeowners look for ways to save money on home repairs. One of your biggest expenses can come in the form of repairs to your heating and cooling system.
There are simple HVAC maintenance tips that can prolong the life of your system. Learning how to do your own preventive maintenance can maximize efficiency.
To keep your system in good condition, continue reading for useful tips on properly maintaining your HVAC system.
1. Replace Filters
Replace your filters every 90 days for better efficiency. If you use your unit more than normal or if your unit is older, your filter may need to be changed more often.
A good way to judge if your filter needs replacing is if it is covered in dust and air can no longer flow.
Don’t settle for cheap filters. This is one area that can cost you down the line. Air filters have come a long way and there are new and improved products on the market.
Air filters are easy to change by slipping out the old filter and then sliding in the new one.
2. Check Your Unit’s Clearance
It is important to keep your unit free of obstruction. If you have trees or shrubs near your outside unit, regular HVAC maintenance includes cutting back limbs.
A safe clearance for your unit is two feet.
3. Clean the Condensate Drain Line
Your HVAC system has a condensate drain line. If this line becomes clogged, it can cause your system to freeze and fail to operate properly.
Cleaning the line is another quick fix. Simply detach the line and pour a cup of bleach or vinegar to clean out the dirt, algae, and mold that can build up.
4. Keep Your Evaporator and Condenser Coils Clean
Both your indoor and outdoor HVAC units have coil systems. It is important that these coils remain free of debris for consistent airflow to keep the units running.
One sign of blocked coils is the unit may no longer turn on.
Cleaning the coils is another quick HVAC maintenance hack. Be careful and follow the coil cleaner instructions. If the coils become damaged it can be a costly repair.
5. Check Air Ducts During HVAC Maintenance
This is a simple maintenance procedure. With the unit running, walk through the house to ensure that air is flowing through the vents.
If you do not feel the air coming through, make sure the vents are fully open and not obstructed.
It is also a good idea not to close too many vents. The more vents you close the harder the unit will have to work.
6. Check for Tears in Air Ducts
Sometimes animals can get into your attic and damage your air ducts. If you feel the air is being restricted, check for damage.
A sign of torn ducts is insulation debris blowing through your vents.
Do You Need an HVAC Check-up?
As seasons change so do the needs of your HVAC system.
If it’s been a while since your unit has had preventive maintenance, contact Green Apple Mechanical to schedule a heating and cooling maintenance check. Green Apple Mechanical NJ are the experts you can trust. We have been serving the New Jersey area for years with professionalism and expertise. Customer service and care are always our number one priorities. If you have any questions or concerns regarding any of your HVAC needs call today at 888-611-7191
When Is The Last Time You Checked Up On Your Thermostat?
Short-cycling occurs when your HVAC system shuts off too early and fails to complete a full heating or cooling cycle.
How To Keep Your Furnace In Fighting Form
But proper preventative maintenance is essential to ensure your furnace runs smoothly and to avoid unwanted breakdowns.
Is Your Current Thermostat Running On Borrowed Time?
Even if your current thermostat seems to be operating fine, all thermostats have a shelf life, and they will eventually need to be replaced.
Keep Your Air Quality Fresh By Replacing Your Furnace Filters
The best way to know if you need to replace your filter is to go look at it.
Refresh The Air In Your Home Every Season
When your air filters are worn or dirty, your system has to work harder to push air through.
Listening To The Subtle Signs Your Furnace Is Making
Squeaks and squeals along with banging and clanging are a clear warning that something is wrong.
Why Not To Wait To Replace Your Thermostat
If your HVAC system isn’t heating or cooling rooms as much as you think it should, your thermostat may be sending the wrong signals to your furnace or AC unit.
The Real Expense Of Not Maintaining Your HVAC System
An annual HVAC examination is normally suggested, however in areas where severe weather occurs, twice a year is not uncommon.
“A Stitch In Time Saves Nine”
Regular maintenance helps your system produce and distribute the warm or cool air more evenly and steadily.