Keeping Your Home Comfortable: HVAC Maintenance Basics

Keeping the home comfortable without extremely high energy costs is done through proper HVAC maintenance. This can also help minimize the potential for any issues with the air conditioner and help homeowners ensure everything is working as expected. There are a few things homeowners can do throughout the year to make sure everything is running properly. 

Schedule Professional Maintenance

It is crucial to have professional maintenance done at least once per year. A company like Superior Service can take a look at the HVAC system and do a thorough inspection. This allows them to look for parts that are worn down or starting to break, so they can be replaced before the system stops working. They can also make sure everything is working properly, that the system is energy-efficient, and that it does not need to be replaced. 

Do a Visual Inspection

A visual inspection allows homeowners to make sure there isn’t anything interfering with the operation of the air conditioner. It is never recommended to try to fix the air conditioner without professional assistance as the system can be dangerous to work on. Still, homeowners can carefully inspect the outside of the unit to see if everything is working as expected and to make sure nothing has gotten into the exterior unit. If anything unusual is detected, contact a professional to have it inspected and repaired.

Keep Things Away From Outside Unit

It is important to make sure there is room around the outside unit, as it can start to have trouble moving enough air to operate properly if there are things too close to it. When putting up something to hide the HVAC unit, be sure to leave enough clearance. If there are bushes close to the HVAC unit, it’s recommended to move them further away or to keep them trimmed so they don’t grow too close. 

Keep the Outside Unit Clean

Don’t forget to keep the outside unit clean. Dirt can stop it from working as efficiently and can cause excess wear and tear. Homeowners can wash the outside unit, but it is recommended to turn the unit off before cleaning. It is also recommended to wash the exterior unit carefully, as damage can occur with the use of pressure or harsh chemicals. Refer to the manufacturer for guidelines on how to clean the unit or ask a professional for advice before cleaning for the first time.

Change Filters Regularly

It is important to change the filters at least monthly in most cases. There are some filters that can last longer and some households, such as those with pets, may need to change the filters more frequently. Look at the manufacturer guidelines to make sure the filters are changed often enough so the HVAC system can continue working as expected. A professional can help homeowners who are unsure of how to change the filters. 

If you want to save money on energy costs, HVAC repairs, and more, make sure to have professional maintenance done and follow these easy tips to keep your HVAC system working. By making sure everything is clean and the machine has room to pull in air, it’s easier to prevent potential issues and keep the home comfortable. Schedule professional maintenance today to make sure your HVAC is ready for the upcoming weather.