Maintenance Tips to Keep Your HVAC System in Shape

With the help of the HVAC system, you can maintain a comfortable temperature in your home with little effort. Homeowners need only turn the power on and set the temperature to enjoy warmth in the winter and cool air in the summer.



If you want to make sure that your HVAC unit offers you the best performance for many years to come, proper maintenance is essential. The following are some helpful maintenance tips to keep your HVAC system in top shape.

Inspect Your Filters Monthly

Cleaning your filter is one of the essential maintenance tasks to ensure your air conditioner runs efficiently. Air conditioner filters capture airborne particles such as dust, hair, pollen, and other debris. The filters gradually get dirty and stop working correctly. 

To clean your filter:

• Turn off the power supply: Switch off the thermostat and disconnect your HVAC from the power supply.
• Remove the top panel: Unscrew or release the latches of the lid to your filter and place the screws in a visible place.
• Remove and wash the cartridges: Find the cartridges and put them in a large trash bag, as they can be very dusty. Follow your manufacturer's guidelines on cleaning your cartridges. The exercise typically involves soaking the cartridges in soapy water and hosing them off.
• Reassemble the unit: Before putting your cartridges back, dry them out completely.

Your filter cartridges can go up to three months, but you may need to replace them sooner. A monthly inspection can help you determine the best time. Cleaning your AC filters improves airflow and the air quality inside your home. 

Visually Inspect Your HVAC System

While you inspect your filters every month, you should also visually examine your system to uncover potential issues. The thermostat battery and the outside unit are essential items to examine frequently.

Ensure you replace the thermostat battery when necessary. Also, check that your outdoor compressor is level, as the underlying concrete slab can shift over time.

Clear Fins

Your unit has fins on the side that look like a metal grill. Like the filters, any blockage of the fins will decrease the efficiency of your unit. Fins can get clogged or get bent. 

A fin spray can help you unclog the fins. You should spray from the inside out. If the fins are in improper shape, you should get a fin comb to help you straighten them out.

Regulate Home Temperature

Maintenance of your HVAC involves operating it at comfortable temperatures and avoiding straining the system. You do not need your AC to max out when you are away from home or sleeping.

A programmable thermostat can help your system adjust to the current room temperature and change its output accordingly. The thermostat reduces power draw and ensures your HVAC system lasts longer.

Clean Your Coils

Like the filters, the evaporator and condenser coils also accumulate dirt in their years of service. Dirty evaporator coils can significantly hike your utility bill because they work extra hard to cool air.

Homeowners should check the AC coils yearly and clean them out as necessary. Here's how to clean AC evaporator coils easily:

• Remove the covering panel and remove the access panel with evaporator coils.
• Identify the coils that need cleaning.
• Remove the light dust build-up with a can of compressed air and use a detergent for stubborn grease and stains.
• Put the metal foil back into place and seal the lid.

Dust and grime degrade your unit's ability to cool or heat air. Make a habit of cleaning the outdoor condenser coils as well, as dust and foliage can settle nearby.

Homeowners may choose to perform some maintenance themselves. However, the best option is to hire a professional service technician for HVAC maintenance at least once every year. Licensed technicians will have the equipment and expertise to inspect the system and determine whether it needs repairs or replacements.

Feel free to contact us today at E & R Heating and Cooling to schedule professional service or start a preventative maintenance program for your HVAC unit.