Virginia residents depend on their HVAC systems for comfort and health all year long. To ensure maximum efficiency, homeowners should perform a few HVAC maintenance steps to limit the need for outside service. Here are six simple tasks from All-Temp Heating and Cooling that can help your air conditioner and heater stay in shape.
1. Change Your Air Filters
A dirty air filter can restrict the airflow in your HVAC system. This forces the system to work harder to maintain even temperatures, making it less energy-efficient and causing wear and tear on internal parts.
On top of that, the air filter can’t do its job of collecting pollutants, making the air in your home more contaminated. It’s good to change your air filters every one to three months for optimal HVAC maintenance.
2. Clean Ducts and Vents
Dust, debris, and allergens gather in your HVAC system’s vents and ducts. Over time, these pollutants can circulate through your living space, causing respiratory problems and allergic reactions. Like a dirty air filter, this can also lower energy efficiency and increase utility bills. Clean them regularly as part of regular HVAC maintenance service.
3. Check Your Thermostat
Your thermostat is designed to make indoor temperatures comfortable in all seasons. If it’s not properly set, heating and cooling can be inconsistent across all the rooms of your home.
It can also become inefficient, raising your energy bills and requiring an HVAC tune-up. A programmable thermostat that works according to your schedule can optimize usage and keep conditions comfortable.
4. Clean Up Your Outdoor Unit
An outdoor HVAC unit is exposed to the elements. Over time, leaves, branches, and other debris can get caught in its openings and vents. As with internal components, a messy outdoor unit causes restricted airflow and premature wear and tear.
To avoid these problems, inspect your HVAC unit regularly and clean up any excess clutter. It’s also a good idea to make sure there’s at least two feet of clearance around the outdoor HVAC unit.
5. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
A carbon monoxide (CO) leak can lead to life-threatening problems. Since CO is odorless and colorless, it’s impossible to verify without a carbon monoxide detector. To ensure proper working order, press the detector’s test button. If it’s working, you should hear an alarm.
Also, check the batteries and verify your detector’s expiration date. An efficient carbon monoxide detector should give you five to seven years of service.
6. Insulate and Seal Leaks
Leaks in your ducts let warm and cool air slip out of your HVAC system. This makes your unit operate less efficiently, generating higher energy bills and making your home uncomfortable.
Check for leaks around windows, doors, and ducts. Make sure your ducts are properly insulated as well. This maintains temperature consistency and cuts down on excessive heat transfer.
Dependable HVAC Service From All-Temp Heating and Cooling
At All-Temp Heating and Cooling, we keep local residents comfortable throughout the year. To begin an HVAC maintenance agreement, stop by our offices or contact us online. You can also schedule service using our online calendar.
