At least 20% of Americans have an underperforming HVAC system in their home and this costs them an average of $882 more every year than homeowners with energy-efficient measures in place.
So, it makes sense to keep tabs on your HVAC’s performance and pay a little extra to keep it well maintained. With winter fast approaching, now’s a good time to make sure your home heating system is operating at an optimum.
Keep reading for tips on how to keep your HVAC running smoothly, save energy, and avoid costly HVAC system repairs.
1. Check the Filter Regularly
Dirty filters are the number one cause of air conditioner failure. Changing your air filter is an easy task, but it’s vital to keep your energy costs down and limit the chance of HVAC issues.
Check your filter at least once a month. If it’s clogged or dirty, was it and run air over it.
You should change your air filter at least once every three months or anytime it’s exceptionally grimy. If you have pets at home, you’ll need to change your filter more regularly.
A dirty air conditioner filter may freeze and then thaw, resulting in water damage, so make it a priority to keep your filter clean. You can clean a reusable filter with a soft cloth, soap, and water.
2. Get a Better Filter
For optimum energy efficiency and clean air, you should consider replacing your HVAC filter with a modern high-efficiency pleated filter or a HEPA filter.
Both these types of filters offer added protection from the tiniest allergens and bacteria. Pleated filters work with an electrostatic charge that traps these undesirables and removes them from your breathing spaces.
HEPA filters comprise a very thin fiberglass mesh. They’re so efficient that they’re typically installed in airplanes, hospitals, and science labs.
Your furnace might not work with such a dense filter, so consult an HVAC technician to help you get things flowing smoothly.
All HEPA filters have a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating. The higher the MERV, the denser the filter.
3. Clean the Heat Pump or Condenser
Outdoor heat pumps and air conditioners get exceptionally dirty. This means your system must work harder to create the heat and cool air you want in your home.
When you keep these components clean, there’s less chance your HVACs internal components will incur damage. Make sure your condenser and heat pumps have no debris on or around them at any time.
You can clean them by spraying the fins with a garden hose. Make sure you get all the dirt out from in-between the crevices.
While you’re inspecting your unit, make sure it’s level. A lopsided HVAC can break down more easily due to the displacement of refrigerants.
4. Clean the Drain Lines
While doing its job, an air conditioner sucks the moisture out of the air. This accumulates inside the drain lines, which transport the liquid outside.
After a while, dirt and dust can clog the drain lines and lead to the growth of mold and algae.
To prevent this, you should remove the air conditioner’s outer cover and wipe the drain line with a clean cloth. Afterward, rinse it with a mixture of vinegar and water. This will remove any mold.
5. Keep it Free of Debris
Keep any plants growing near your outdoor unit in check. Vegetation can grow over the unit and cover it, hampering its ability to eject exhaust fumes.
Sometimes leave and branches even end up inside an outdoor unit, causing serious problems with the operation of the fan.
Keep at least two feet of clearance around your HVAC’s exterior unit by trimming back vegetation or removing it altogether.
6. Manage The Humidifier
In summer, shut off the water supply to your furnace humidifier, you don’t need it.
When you anticipate turning up the heat again, replace the humidifier wick filter, and adjust the humidistat to around 35% relative humidity. Then turn on the water.
7. Invest in a Smart AC Controller
Smart upgrades to your HVAC give you access to extra features that help with preventive maintenance. Smart AC controllers help you monitor how much energy you use and can alert you when your filters are dirty.
The most advanced of these can detect when your AC isn’t performing at its best, or pick up issues with indoor air quality. These issues can indicate that you need to get in touch with a professional AC repairman.
Modes like geofencing and scheduling allow you to activate your HVAC according to a set time or location. This helps improve efficiency and reduces energy wastage.
8. Call an HVAC System Expert
Scheduling an annual health check is the best way to keep your HVAC at its best. This routine procedure involves a visit from an HVAC technician, who can examine your system for faults and take steps to prevent serious issues.
The inspection usually includes the following:
- Checking the fan is operating correctly
- Checking or changing the air filter
- Cleaning the drain lines and coils
- Checking the refrigerant levels
- Checking for leaks in the heat exchanger
It’s best to arrange for these annual checkups in the spring and fall before extreme weather sets in.
You’ll need to arrange for an HVAC service now and again too. This involves inspecting and cleaning all the components to ensure your system stays in good shape year after year.
According to https://armstrongairinc.com/locations/tampa-fl/, several HVAC issues might seem minor on the surface, but they could become a disaster at any moment.
Save With Home Maintenance
Regular maintenance goes a long way toward preventing unnecessary HVAC system repairs and optimizing your family’s comfort and safety.
Are you interested in more energy-saving, health-boosting home maintenance tips? Browse our website for more of the best information on making your home a better, safer place.