The new year is here, and we’re starting it off on a positive note with some excellent HVAC maintenance tips. Whether you’re hoping to increase your home comfort or improve your system’s efficiency, this checklist will help you make the most out of the new year.
Here are some HVAC maintenance tips to kick off your New Year with:
1. Clean and vacuum your ducts.
Cleaning out your filter cleanings and dust will help your indoor air quality by removing pollen, mold spores, bacteria, mildew, and other airborne irritants.
Clean the air ducts with a lightweight, long-handled vacuum cleaner, and then spray them down with a solution of half white vinegar, half water as a cleaning agent. This will kill dust mites and their eggs.
You can prevent dust from entering your heating and cooling system by ensuring the return air grills are sealed tight. This will also help reduce noise levels and energy loss caused by cold outdoor air.
2. Change your air filter.
A dirty air filter can actually make your equipment work harder and use more energy which will add to your utility bills. Check the owner’s manual for an idea of how often you should change your filter or ask a professional HVAC service technician.
The air filter should be replaced when it is dirty or smells. It can also be replaced if you see many fine particles pass through the filter. The type of air filter media you use depends on your home’s climate and other factors. Your furnace and air conditioner have filters, and you need to check both.
3. Clean or replace your furnace’s blower and fan.
A dirty blower can reduce the unit’s efficiency by up to 80% and cause overheating, short cycling, or improper air flow. Cleaning your furnace’s blower is a job you can do yourself. Make sure to turn off the power and wait for the dust to cool before starting.
If your blower is jammed, you can remove the housing to access the blower. Next, remove the screws that hold it in place and gently pull it off.
You can easily clean your furnace fan by removing the fan shroud and then washing it with a garden hose. You can also replace the entire fan if it is broken or worn out.
4. Check and adjust your thermostat.
A thermostat that isn’t correctly set can be the culprit behind poorly balanced indoor temperatures and lead to more wear and tear on your heating and cooling equipment. Increase or decrease your system’s temperature to set it at the perfect temperature.
When you purchase a new thermostat, make sure it is compatible with the furnace’s current heating and cooling system components. The thermostat should also be set for your area’s correct day and time.
Do these things immediately if you want to maintain your HVAC system in 2022
It’s vital to keep your heating and cooling systems in tip-top shape to prevent problems with your HVAC unit. By performing routine maintenance, you can prevent costly breakdowns that lead to repairs.
Simple maintenance can prevent problems with your HVAC unit, so it’s essential to keep tabs on your equipment. Scheduling regular check-ups from a licensed HVAC technician will help you avoid costly repairs and costly HVAC system breakdowns.