A properly functioning HVAC system makes a happy homeowner. Since you need the HVAC system throughout the entire year, you must maintain it properly and conduct regular inspections.
A poorly maintained HVAC system can cost you several hundred dollars every year. This figure does not include the medical bills you may incur due to poor indoor air quality resulting from a faulty HVAC system.
It, therefore, makes sense to monitor your air conditioning unit and pay a few dollars every once in a while to keep it well maintained and functioning properly. Regardless of the time of the year, you need to make sure that the AC unit is functioning as needed.
With every homeowner looking for ways to cut costs, you can save significantly through HVAC system maintenance. Several tips can help you increase the lifespan of your system. This article looks at some of the measures you can adopt to make your HVAC system function effectively and increase its durability.
1. Change the Air Filters
Ideally, you should replace the air filters after every three months to maximize efficiency and performance. If you use your HVAC system heavily, you will have to change the air filters more frequently.
The easiest way to determine when to change the air filters in your HVAC system is by checking it for dust. If you notice poor air flow, it also shows that you need a new air filter.
To get the most out of your money, do research before buying a new air filter to ensure that you only buy the best. Avoid buying cheap air filters as they often have a shorter lifespan and are less reliable.
2. Clean the Vents
The air vents and registers help with air circulation throughout your house. They can also cause unreliable and inefficient AC functionality when you do not keep them maintained. Dirty air vents and air filters often contain pet dander, dust, and various contaminants, which result in poor air quality that can impact your health. Your HVAC system should be a source of comfort for you and your family and not a cause for medical expenses and health hazards.
To prevent poor indoor air quality, regularly vacuum and dust the registers and vents in your home. If you have not had the ducts in your system cleaned for a long time, find a professional to do it. Many HVAC maintenance companies also specialize in ductwork, so you should have no problems finding one.
They can conduct video inspections of the entire ductwork before getting to work to know exactly what they are dealing with. You do not have to worry about high energy bills or potential HVAC breakdowns with clean air ducts.
3. Clean the Drain Lines
When purifying the air flowing through your home, the air conditioner gets rid of any moisture in the air. It collects the moisture in the drain lines, which then transport the liquid outside. After periods of extended use, the drain lines can build up dust and dirt, which can cause clogs. It can also cause the growth of mold and algae, which are significant health hazards.
To prevent this, make sure to remove the outer cover on your air conditioner and wipe the drain line with a clean towel. When done, rinse it with a mixture of water and vinegar to remove any traces of mold that may have started growing.
4. Remove Debris
If you have any plants growing near the outdoor unit, check them regularly. They can overgrow and cover it, making it work harder to get rid of exhaust fumes. Sometimes, it may pull in small branches and leaves, which can cause severe problems with the fan.
Experts advise maintaining a distance of at least two feet around the exterior HVAC unit by trimming back any overgrown vegetation or removing it entirely.
5. Buy a Smart AC Controller
Smart HVAC upgrades allow you to utilize extra features that can enhance preventive maintenance. With smart controllers for your AC unit, you can keep track of your energy usage. You also get notifications when you need to clean or change your air filters.
Smart controllers with advanced features can detect any abnormalities in the functionality of the AC system or indoor air quality, so you know exactly when to call an expert. With geofencing, you can schedule when you use the AC unit to save energy.
Maintaining your HVAC system can help you save money on utility bills since it reduces the amount of energy you use. It can also improve the indoor air quality keeping you and your family safe from various health hazards.
You can better maintain your AC unit by changing the air filters frequently and cleaning the vents and drain lines. Removing debris and investing in a smart controller also improves efficiency.
