Try to think about heating and cooling systems as an investment. Take care of them and they will perform more efficiently, more reliably and last a lot longer. Read through this HVAC preventative maintenance checklist to show your heating and cooling system some love this spring. You’ll be surprised at how many tasks you can do yourself. Others are, naturally, better left to the experts.
DIY HVAC Preventative Maintenance Checklist
Check the Filter
This simple and inexpensive preventative maintenance task should be done quarterly. Check your filter for dust build up and change or clean as necessary. Doing so will not only cut down on dust that’s pushed into your home, but will also aid in the efficiency of your HVAC, decreasing the strain put on the system. Regularly changing air filters is essential for people with asthma or seasonal allergies.
Clear Airflow
Clear away any objects that could be blocking the air intake and return vents throughout your home. Whether it’s furniture, rugs or last week’s laundry, anything covering the vents will reduce the airflow, reduce efficiency and wear out your HVAC system.
Clean the Unit
Head outside and address the condensing unit. Clear away anything that is blocking airflow, such as leaves, weeds and overgrown plants. As a good rule of thumb, leave about 2 feet of clearance around your air conditioner and approximately five feet above it to optimize efficiency.
HVAC Maintenance You Should Leave To the Experts:
Beyond those DIY tasks, a professional HVAC checkup should be a regular part of your HVAC maintenance plan to prevent future problems — and unexpected expenses — before they occur.
Check Refrigerant
With the R22 phase-out right around the corner, homeowners need to become informed of their options. A few years ago, the Environmental Protection Agency mandated the phase-out of R22 refrigerant in an effort to protect the planet’s ozone layer. If your air conditioner was installed prior to 2010, chances are it uses R22.
Currently, replacing R22 is still an option, although a costly one. However, you are about to run out of time. By 2020, homeowners will no longer be allowed by law to recharge an R22-using air conditioner. This means that if your system is on the older side, it’s time to start considering your replacement options.
Clean the Components
From the evaporator coils to the condenser coils, anything dirty will force your system to run longer and harder. This not only costs you more in energy bills, but also strains the system, decreasing its lifespan.
Additionally, your technician will clean and adjust the blower components to ensure proper airflow, comfortable temperatures and optimal efficiency.
Clear the Drain
Your professional HVAC technician will check and clear the condensate drain to ensure the unit is running properly. If the drain becomes clogged, it could result in high humidity levels – or worse – water damage inside your home.
Verify Thermostat Function
Often overlooked, the thermostat is what drives your system. Your technician will verify that your thermostat and other electrical components are functioning properly. This will help to keep you comfortable in the hot NJ summer months and save on energy costs.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Your HVAC pro will also lubricate all moving parts in order to keep your system running efficiently and safely. This helps to reduce HVAC system wear-and-tear and optimize energy efficiency.
HVAC Repair Free Estimate by Air Tech
Schedule a Preventative Maintenance Appointment for Your Air Conditioner
Go through your HVAC preventative maintenance checklist at least twice a year. Once in the spring and once in the fall – before the weather puts a strain on your system. Doing so will prevent breakdowns, cut down on energy use, extend the life of your unit and keep it performing at its peak during the summer.
Contact Air Tech to schedule your preventive maintenance appointment today.
Our Ship Bottom office is conveniently located on the Causeway, allowing for quick response time to customers’ needs throughout the Long Beach Island and Ocean County, NJ areas. Check out our service area.
