The HVAC system is an integral part of households, so when it breaks down or doesn’t work as efficiently, the impacts are noticed. To keep the HVAC system running as expected, it is important to do regular maintenance. There are a number of things homeowners can do to help make sure their HVAC system is running as efficiently as possible.
Professional Maintenance Services
The key to maintaining your HVAC system is to have it professionally maintained on a regular basis. A professional is able to do a thorough inspection of the system to make sure it is working as expected. If there are any worn parts, they can be replaced before they end up breaking and causing issues with the system. This helps ensure it works as efficiently as possible throughout the year.
Change Air Filters Regularly
If the air filters are not changed often enough, they may end up blocking airflow to the HVAC system, which can reduce how efficiently it works. It is important to make sure the air filters are cleaned or changed per the manufacturer’s directions.
In homes with pets, it may be a good idea to change the air filters more frequently. Be sure to use a quality air filter to help filter out as many contaminants as possible while still allowing for airflow.
Clean the Vents and Ducts
It is a good idea to inspect the vents and ducts for any blockages or leaks. Take the time to clean the vents in the house to make sure they are able to allow airflow so that all rooms in the home are comfortable. If there are any spaces that tend to be colder or warmer, it may be a good idea to have the ducts cleaned and inspected for potential leaks. If any leaks are found, they can be fixed to help improve how the ducts function.
Inspect the Outdoor Unit
At least once per year, check the outdoor unit to make sure it can work properly. There should be at least a few feet of space around the outdoor unit to ensure air can flow freely.
If there are trees or bushes near the HVAC unit, make sure they are trimmed to prevent them from blocking the air or causing damage to the outdoor unit. If there is a lot of dust and debris, carefully clean the unit so it can work as expected.
Monitor Energy Use
It is a good idea to monitor energy use to make sure the system isn’t starting to cost more to run. If it is using more energy than usual, it could be a sign that there’s a problem with it. Homeowners can keep an eye on their energy bills to make sure they don’t significantly increase from one month to the next without a significant change in weather. Also, it is possible to use a home energy monitor to see what is using the most energy and detect increases faster.
All of these tips can help ensure the HVAC system in your home is running as efficiently as possible. If you do have any concerns about how well it’s working or whether there are any issues that are causing the HVAC to work less efficiently, it is a good idea to have a professional inspection done. This way, the entire system is inspected and repaired to make sure it’s running properly.