Your HVAC system won’t run indefinitely without some attention. Follow these five steps to keep your heating and air conditioning systems working efficiently:
1. Prepare for Summer and Winter
Unless you live in a southern state, you probably turn your AC off after September and don’t turn it back on until May. Prepare and check your system at least twice a year, prior to the cold of winter and the heat of summer.
2. Clean or Replace Your Air Filters
We’ve all been there. Just like changing the oil, renewing your car’s auto registration, and paying the bills, it can be hard to remember to check your HVAC system’s air filters. However, all the air in your home passes through those filters many times each day. If they’re not clean, you’re going to breathe in dust, pollen, and other allergens all day long.
Most filters can be cleaned simply by removing them and spraying them off with a garden hose outside. Let them dry before replacing. Disposable filters typically last for about three to six months, so you’ll want to keep a spare filter handy.
3. Keep the Condenser Clean
Your condenser does most of the hard work but it needs plenty of airflow. Weeds or grass will grow up through the metal grates on each side and cut off airflow, and the condenser will have to work harder to compensate, which can shorten its life.
A good rule of thumb is to provide a two foot clearing on all sides. If grass does grow up against the cement block, keep it trimmed every week. Make sure to remove any leaves or dead branches that fall into the condenser.
4. Calibrate Your Thermostat
The next time somebody says that they’re freezing or hot, you might want to take a look at the thermostat. Like all sensors, thermostats need to be calibrated on a regular basis to ensure accuracy. Keeping your home the right temperature will help reduce energy costs while keeping you comfortable throughout the year.
For more info on how to calibrate your thermostat, click here for tips from eHow.
5. Check Gas Pressure, Heat Exchanger, Burner Combustion and Oil or Gas Connections
To avoid health and fire hazards, it’s important to make sure that gas or oil connections are working properly. Likewise, you don’t want your burner to be dirty or have a cracked heat exchanger as this can pose safety hazards as well.
Some of these steps are easy enough for anyone to complete, but other tips like calibrating thermostats require a professional with years of training and experience. If your HVAC system isn’t working correctly, contact us today by calling 757-425-2400.
