HVAC maintenance should be done at least twice a year to prevent costly problems. But between these regular check-ups with your HVAC company, you should learn how to maintain the system yourself. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Deal with a reputable contractor
A common problem for Salt Lake City residents is that they haven’t found the best contractor for their plumbing, professional water heater installation, and HVAC needs. To get the most out of your money, do your research about the best HVAC contractors who charge a reasonable price in your area.
2. Buy a more efficient filter
Purchase a filter with high-efficiency pleated fibers. This type of filter has an electrostatic charge, which acts like a magnet that will attract the smallest pieces of debris.
3. Replace your filter regularly
During the spring, autumn, and winter season, be sure to replace your filter every three months. In the summer where you use your air-conditioning more frequently, replace your filter every month. However, if you have pets that shed, check your filter every month for accumulated debris.
4. Remove debris from outdoor units
Make it a habit to remove debris off of outdoor HVAC units. Leaves, twigs, pollen, and dirt can block your air-conditioning units or heat pumps and cause a malfunction. Depending on the number of trees or plants that you have in the area, you will probably have to do this every week.
5. Check your air conditioner for leaks
At least once a month, check your refrigerant lines for leaks. Otherwise, these leaks may cause the lines or coils to freeze. When this happens, your air conditioner will have to work harder to cool your home if it hasn’t broken down already.
6. Prevent clogs
Pour one cup of water and bleach down your air-conditioner’s condensate drain to kill off mold and algae. Do this at least once a year to prevent the drain from clogging.
7. Check your HVAC’s electrical connections
Electrical connections can loosen or break over time. If this happens to your HVAC system, it can cause malfunctions and even breakages if the damage is bad enough. If left unchecked, you may be in for a costly replacement for your furnace or air-conditioner. Every once in a while, check your HVAC’s wires if they look frayed or damaged. If they are, replace them as soon as possible.
8. Make sure your refrigerant levels are enough
Check if there is enough refrigerant in your air conditioner. The refrigerant is responsible for cooling the air in your house efficiently. If your air conditioner doesn’t have enough refrigerant, this can cause the compressor to work harder, which can eventually break the system. When you notice that the refrigerant level is too low, you must clean your unit and call the professionals immediately. This will help prevent worse problems with your system.
Proper and regular HVAC maintenance is every homeowner’s responsibility. To save yourself from unnecessary repairs or replacements, be sure to do these maintenance practices with the recommended frequency.
