The heating and cooling produced from our HVAC induction unit utilize up to two-thirds of our house’s energy. Nevertheless, it is crucial to choose a wise option to enhance efficiency and overall performance.
Regular maintenance keeps HVAC systems in top shape. It is the ideal way to expand the lifespan of your AC heating and cooling system. Besides, it will also ensure trouble-free functionality and the best performance when you need it the most. Pre-season care is also vital to prevent system failure in acute cold or hot weather. Also, it helps reduce energy bills.
THE BEST HVAC MAINTENANCE TIPS
HVAC is the prime necessity that helps us stay warm in winters and cool during the summers. Continuous usage can bring your air conditioner a lot of pressure which can eventually turn into a breakdown. Regular HVAC maintenance can prevent this from happening and grab the possible issue before the occurrence.
Besides, repairing or replacing your air conditioner can be more expensive. It is, however crucial, to consider some essential maintenance tips to prevent dear HVAC repairs and replacement. The sooner you recognize the issue; the lesser will be the maintenance expense.
Importance of HVAC Maintenance
An HVAC system is similar to a vehicle. Periodic and proper maintenance is a must to keep it function smoothly and extend the lifespan. An accurately working HVAC system comfortably warm or cool for many years. However, HVAC maintenance is a must when it comes to longevity.
There are various benefits for maintaining your HVAC system and keep it in a top-notch state.
- Lowers utility bills
- Ensures healthy air
- Expands the system’s lifespan
- Improves performance
- Prevents emergency repairs
HVAC replacement charges
People who overlook monthly HVAC maintenance have a higher likelihood of system failure. Often, they need to replace the heat pump, air conditioner, or furnace in such cases. Replacement charges can range between circa $2,500 and $7,900. The cost depends on the-
- Size of the unit
- Efficiency level of the unit
- Features or technology
- And contractor you employ for the installation.
The most crucial tips to know to prevent dear HVAC repairs
Here are some critical steps to consider for your AC system’s appropriate functioning with detailed information about HVAC preventative care and how it can affect a household.
Clean the condenser
Air conditioners in the open air and heat pumps can quickly get cluttered and can cause the machine to struggle to create the required warm and cold air you want in your space. Cleaning the heat pumps and condensers will lower the probable harm to the internal parts of the machine. Ensure that there isn’t any dust or debris on the top and side of your AC outer units and pumps. Wash out the gunk with effective water spray or garden hose. Besides, verify that the unit is flat. If unequal, the refrigerants will be dislocated probably. As a result, the condenser and compressor might be at a high risk of breakdown.
Check filter
Dirty air filters are among the most apparent reasons for AC repairs. Changing the filter is the simplest way to talk about HVAC maintenance to enhance efficiency, lower electricity costs, and prevent probable repairs. Keep monitoring your filter to be certain that it is not clogged or dirty. When required, give it a good wash and blow air over it. Changing the filter periodically, say after every three months, is a good idea, especially if you have pets. A dirty AC filter can freeze and defrost, resulting in water damage. In this case, clean the filter gently using a soft cloth and then add some gentle soap and water if the filter is reusable. But, if it is not reusable, visit the store and buy a new one. If you or anyone in your family have allergies, it is ideal to buy a hypoallergenic or HEPA filter. For instance, many hospitals across Canada opt for patient room HEPA cleaners, particularly for patients with allergies.
Professionals do routine checkups
A checkup includes an onsite trip from a professional HVAC technician who analyzes the system and ensures it functions appropriately well. The inspection may include-
- Making sure the fan is functioning properly
- Clearing out the dust from coils
- Assessing the air filter and changing it if required
- Cleaning drain lines
- Monitoring the refrigerant level
- Checking the leaks in the heat exchanger
Checkups can be a one-time affair or yearly contract based on the scheduled maintenance. A professional checkup has to be done once a year. It makes certain that your HVAC is working well and will not break down when you might need it the most, perhaps in high summer or winter days.
Clean the drain lines
An HVAC system takes out the moisture from the air that piles up within the system’s drain lines. As time passes, the pile of dust and dirt in the drain lines can get clogged. Nevertheless, it is ideal for cleaning the drain line occasionally. Take off the system’s outer cover and clean the drain line with a fresh piece of cloth. Besides, you can also wash the dirt out with a mixture of vinegar and water.
Maintain the outer unit
The exterior unit of your HVAC system will be exposed to weather and other ecological elements like debris and dirt, which can stop the exhaust air from getting ejected efficiently. At times, especially if the outer unit faces the garden, the leaves and branches can get within the unit and interfere with the fan’s smooth functioning. However, keep monitoring the area around the exterior unit. Make sure you trim the leaves or bushes before they reach the exterior unit height. This DIY job will take up a significant amount of time and save costly repairs and replacements later on.
Get smart
The additional features of an innovative HVAC system can help you with preventative maintenance. For example, with smart AC controllers, you can monitor your system’s usage history and get alerts whenever the system requires a filter cleaning. Besides, some thermostats can also spot if your AC is functioning well or not or an issue with the interior air quality. Some other modes like monitoring or geofencing can help you trigger your HVAC systems based on the set-time and location. Eventually, getting smart ensures that your HVAC system performs effectively and will not waste energy and money.
Final thoughts
HVAC maintenance is a must. Routine checks and fixing minor errors will keep you happy and enjoy the luxury of your system with no hassle of failing. A well-kept unit will have fewer issues which means less hassle and no unnecessary expenses. To reduce your burden and ensure an adequately maintained system hire professional technicians to handle your HVAC checks and maintenance. What’s more, safeguard your system with regular cleaning and investing in smart devices to lower the burden on your system and save $s.
