Your HVAC system is easy to ignore until something goes wrong. However, it's important to maintain your system to prevent expensive issues and a reduced lifespan. If you would like to know more about HVAC maintenance, keep reading.
Replace the Filter as Needed
Ideally, you should clean and/or replace the filter once every 90 days. However, if you have allergies and/or breathing complications, you may want to replace it more often to boost indoor air quality. You should also replace the filter more often if you have a lot of debris in your house, such as pet hair or dust.
If you don't replace the filter as needed, it can strain the system and put more wear and tear on it, which increases the risk of damage and shortens its lifespan. Also, if you don't replace the filter, it becomes less effective, letting more debris pass by and into your indoor air.
Clean and Clear the Vents
Even if you keep the filter clean, dust gets in the system and can clog up the vents. You'll want to clean these as needed. In addition, make sure nothing is blocking the vents like furniture, dirty clothes, and other items.
Items blocking the vent could increase the risk of a fire. However, blocked vents also put more stress on the system because the system has to push the same amount of air through fewer vents.
Request Regular Servicing
Before the heating season, have your furnace serviced, and before the cooling season, have your air conditioning system serviced. This ensures the system is in peak condition for peak use, so it doesn't break down when you need it the most.
During servicing, the technician cleans, lubricates, and repairs any minor damage. This helps reduce the risk of problems, and it prevents the system from needing early replacement.
Request Occasional Duct Cleaning/Maintenance
If your HVAC system uses ducts, you need occasional cleaning and maintenance. Cleaning removes dust and debris, which helps the system work more efficiently and effectively. Dust gathers on the walls of the ducts, narrowing the system and forcing it to work harder.
At the same time, the technician can check for signs of damage like puncture holes. These allow air to escape, which affects the temperature inside the house. Finally, the technician will add any insulation where needed to prevent heat loss/gain.
If you have been neglecting your HVAC system, it's time to request maintenance. Regular maintenance extends the life of your system and keeps it efficient and effective. If you would like to know more, contact a heating maintenance technician today.