While you should always use a certified Green Apple HVAC contractor to install, repair, and maintain your home’s HVAC system, not all HVAC maintenance requires a professional HVAC technician. Here are a few minor tasks you can tackle at the start of every season’s change.
Change the Air Filter
The air filter traps dirt and helps clean the air in your home for your family. However, when dust builds up on the filter, airflow becomes restricted. This will lower the unit’s efficiency and lead to more serious problems. For this reason, changing the air filter regularly is an important part of HVAC maintenance.
How often you need to change the air filter depends on the quality of the filter and how often the air conditioner is used. In New Jersey, you may need to run your air conditioner every day in the summer. In spring and fall, you may use less energy consumption. This means you’ll need to change the air filter more frequently during summer. In general, to have a clean air filter you should replace them once every three months. During summer, when the AC is used more heavily, it’s a good idea to check the filter once a month.
Your air vents are another part of the HVAC system that can become clogged with dirt and dust. This also reduces airflow, and the air reaching you will not be as cold or warm as you’d like it to be. Try to incorporate the dusting of air vents into your household cleaning routine to prevent dust from accumulating. It would be best if you also ensured no furniture, plants, or curtains were blocking the vents.
Check the AC’s Outdoor Unit
If you have a traditional HVAC system or heat pump, you must keep an eye on the outdoor unit. Dirt and debris can start to cover the unit, affecting its functioning. Keep it clear of debris by simply hosing down the unit from time to time. If there are any plants or trees nearby, trim back leaves and branches when they encroach on the unit.
Check the Furnace
At the start of winter, do a quick inspection of your furnace. Most furnaces are located in the basement, which many people use as storage. Make sure the space around the furnace is not cluttered with items that can present a hazard. If you have a gas furnace, check that the burner flame is blue. If the flame is yellow, it’s an indication that the burner is dirty.
What HVAC Maintenance and Repairs Are Best Left to the Pros?
Call the pros at Green Apple Mechanical for all other inspections, proper maintenance, and repair jobs. HVAC systems are complex machines and require a skilled expert to attend to maintenance and repairs. For example, have a trained Green Apple Technician check your air conditioner at the start of summer. In addition, have them inspect the heating system before the winter season. If you have a heat pump, schedule maintenance twice a year.
Despite regular maintenance, HVAC equipment is subject to normal wear and tear, and things can still go wrong. Always pay attention to a drop in efficiency, and don’t ignore any unusual noises. They are signs that something is wrong in the system. Even if you are an accomplished DIYer, try to avoid fixing the problem yourself. You could do more harm than good without specialized HVAC training and knowledge.
Seasonal HVAC Maintenance has the following benefits:
- Increased efficiency. Seasonal maintenance keeps your heating and cooling system functioning optimally. This means you won’t face problems like weak airflow, inadequate heating or cooling, and untimely breakdowns.
- Improved air quality. Regular cleaning of ducts, air filters, and air vents helps keep your indoor air quality healthy. It prevents a build-up of mold that can lead to allergies, illness, and respiratory problems.
- Energy and money savings. When your HVAC system struggles to function, it directly impacts your energy bill. A poorly functioning system has to work harder to regulate temperature, which, in turn, drives up your electric bill.
- Fewer necessary repairs. HVAC repairs can be frustrating and put a massive dent in your budget. Preventative maintenance spots potential problems early and helps avoid frequent and costly repairs.
- Increases the lifespan of the unit. Modern HVAC systems and heat pumps are designed to last 15 to 20 years, provided you maintain them regularly.
- Ensures safety. If your heating system uses a gas or electric furnace, there are dangers associated with it. Gas leaks, pressure problems, and electrical faults all present risks. Inspecting the furnace before winter weather can identify and prevent a potentially dangerous situation.
- Green Apple Mechanical 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 concerns call today toll-free at 888-611-7191
