Ultimate Guide to HVAC Maintenance: Tips for a Comfortable & Efficient Home
HVAC System Maintenance
Maintaining your home’s HVAC system is an important aspect of home ownership. Regular maintenance will prevent costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your system. In fact, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that for every dollar spent on HVAC maintenance, you can save $4 in repairs.
When HVAC systems are properly maintained, they will run more efficiently and can reduce your energy consumption by up to 30%. Your HVAC system has a tremendous impact on the comfort and safety of your home – from air quality to temperature control. When not maintained properly, HVAC systems can be a potential fire hazard and even a source of carbon monoxide poisoning.
How Often Should My HVAC System be Serviced?
Whether you have a traditional AC unit or a mini – split, your HVAC system should be serviced once a year.
During a maintenance appointment, an HVAC technician will:
- Clean and inspect the coils
- Clean and replace filters if needed
- Adjust and replace fan belts if needed
- Lubricate motors and bearings
- Clean and check blowers and fans
- Inspect controls and safeties
- Check refrigerant and pressures
- Verify operating temperatures.
Depending on what type of HVAC system you have, your home may have air ducts. Air ducts should be cleaned every 3-5 years. Air duct cleaning can improve your system’s efficiency by 25%.
If you rely on a furnace for heating, it should be serviced once a year, generally in the fall.
Air scrubbers and UV lights can be added to your HVAC system to further improve air quality by removing airborne and surface contaminants, dust, dander, odors, viruses, Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and germs.
In addition to having your AC unit serviced by a licensed professional, here are some ways you can make sure your AC unit is ready for high temperatures:
- Change the filters on a monthly basis during the cooling season
- Check for bent fins and straighten as needed
- Clear off any debris around the condenser coils
- Assess refrigerant levels
- Check condensate pan and pipes for damage or leaks
- Wipe down interior and exterior to keep vents clean
HVAC Maintenance Plans
Purchasing an HVAC service plan is a great way to keep on top of your system’s maintenance. With a service plan, like the Total Home Care membership plan, homeowners will pay a monthly fee to enjoy special discounts and priority service. These types of plans allow technicians to identify and address problems before they arise and ensure that you have an expert on hand in case of emergency.
In addition to purchasing an HVAC service plan, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual for your system and any applicable warranties. Take note of what the warranty covers, for how long and anything that might void it.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have your HVAC system running strong for many years to come! Need to schedule a maintenance appointment? Contact us!
