March 8, 2022
Learning how to maintain your HVAC at home should be a skill that’s as natural to you as keeping the locks secured before you go to bed. Although it’s easy to call repairmen just like that, there are certain factors you should be made aware of so you can avoid unfortunate accidents with your system at home.
Below, we compiled a quick list of HVAC maintenance tips to consider while making sure your system is in tip top shape! Remember to disclose any issues you have with the appropriate repairmen assigned to your home in case of emergencies.
Read on to find out more:
Don’t forget to check your outdoor unit
Sometimes, your outdoor unit can get neglected, too. After all, out of sight, out of mind, right?
Even though you may not be observing your outdoor unit 24/7, it’s still prone to wear and tear when exposed to the elements. Because your outdoor unit is usually at the back of your home or near the lawn, you can’t stop it from animal interaction, being victim to debris, or even being affected by weather changes.
While checking your outdoor unit, make sure that your compressor and blower are both in good condition.
Be vigilant about leaks
Although it might be easier to place a bucket underneath and call it a day, leaks should be reported from repair as soon as you observe them happening. A leaking HVAC means the entire system is trying to work harder to compensate for underperforming parts, and this could lead to even more pesky repairs from your end in the long run.
All leaks are bad, but in particular, you should be taking note of leaks happening from the AC condensate line, refrigerate lines, and your heat exchanger. These leaks should be addressed first, and all other problems can follow. Make sure to tell your repairmen exactly where you observed your leaks.
Regular check-ups should be done
Regular and annual check-ups are your HVAC system’s best friends. You may be overly familiar with your system from the get-go, or perhaps your system has been performing well for years with no issue whatsoever, but these are not excuses for missing out on this crucial step.
Your technician can check on any of the following during check-ups:
- Checking (and changing) the air filter
- Cleaning your drain lines
- Cleaning your coils
- Making sure your fan is working properly
- Checking on your refrigerant level
- Looking to see if leaks are happening in the heat exchanger
Replace your filters
When should you replace your filters? This will depend on several factors, but particularly, this step is important if you have furry pets. Cats, dogs, rabbits, and other similarly furry friends shed their fur almost daily, and although you can be diligent with cleaning it up off the floor, you can’t stop their hair from getting into your HVAC system on occasion.
This means that your filter should be changed every month instead of every regular or annual check-up period. If you don’t have furry pets, you should be okay with replacing your filters every three months instead.
Understand your maintenance tasks every period
Here’s a quick table you can refer to:
| Time Period | Task |
| Right now | Check visible outdoor and indoor systems for debris. Invest in high-efficiency filters. All HVAC systems should have at least two feet of free space. |
| Once a month | Inspect for leaks. |
| Once a season | Water to the furnace humidifier should be turned off in the summer. Filters should be replaced every 90 days. Humidifier filter should be replaced. During fall season, turn the water back on. |
| Once a year | Your carbon monoxide detectors should be running on fresh batteries. Lubricate HVAC motorReplace fan belt |
Get in touch with us for your HVAC maintenance needs!
Looking for reliable HVAC services in NY? Your one-stop shop is here at Heat Wiser!
We are experienced in all heating and cooling equipment including furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners, and air conditioners. For repair, service, installation or replacement, book an appointment on our website today! We are ready to be of service to you whenever you need us. Contact Heat Wiser for your HVAC needs today.
