An HVAC system is a machine that, like others, requires proper care and maintenance in order to operate efficiently for a longer period of time. Since the continuous operation of the HVAC unit puts it under stress, it can break down without proper maintenance.
So identifying a problem before it costs you a fortune in repair work is crucial. So what should you do to ensure your HVAC unit functions properly? You should follow some crucial steps to avoid costly HVAC repairs.
1) Regularly clean outdoor unit
The outdoor unit of the HVAC system consists of condensers or heat pumps. These can become dirty due to dust and dirt buildup over time and affect the efficiency of the system. This makes the unit work harder to cool or warm indoors and become damaged. So keeping them clean will prevent this from happening.
You need to ensure the top and sides of the unit are clear of debris, and the fins are cleaned properly so that no dirt remains in its crevices. Also, ensure that your outdoor unit is properly leveled because if it is slanted to one side, then the refrigerants will be scattered, causing damage to the unit.
Also, make sure that the area around your outdoor unit is clear of leaves and bushes. This growth of vegetation can cover your unit obstruct the air vents, and may also prevent the fans from working properly. So making sure the area around your unit is clear will save you significant repair expenses later on.
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2) Clean drain lines
The drain lines are present in your HVAC unit that take the moisture removed by the cooling system and expel it outdoors. But over time, these drain lines are susceptible to the accumulation of dust and dirt, resulting in the growth of mold and obstructed drain lines. This makes it imperative to clean the drain lines regularly.
To do this, you need to remove the outer cover of the unit and clean the drain lines using a clean cloth. You can also rinse with a solution of vinegar and water to remove mold growth.
3) Replace filters
One of the leading causes of HVAC unit breakdown is soiled air filters. Dirty and clogged air filters will make the unit work harder and also make the indoor air stale. So to improve efficiency, reduce costs of energy bills and lower the chances of repairs, you need to regularly replace filters.
Replace filters every three months but if you notice dirty and clogged filters in your monthly checkup, then change them immediately. If the filters are reusable, then clean them with mild soap, water, and a soft cloth. But if they are not reusable, then buy a new filter from the shop.
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4) Professional checkup annually
Regular checkup of the HVAC unit by an HVAC technician is also crucial for your HVAC system. Once annually is sufficient to ensure the proper functioning of the HVAC unit and that it will not break down when needed. They will examine the unit, check its efficiency, and clean and replace components where needed.
They will check the air filters, ensure the fan is operating properly, clean drain lines and coils, check for leaks, and also the refrigerant level. This will prevent issues from building into greater problems and thus prevent expensive repair work. You should check HVAC repair costs to get an idea of the costs you can encounter.
5) Install smart thermostat
Installing a smart HVAC unit will make it easier to maintain your unit. You can monitor your unit’s operation and get alerts if it is working inefficiently or requires filter cleaning. They can also tell you if the indoor air quality is poor.
Moreover, with a smart system, you have more control over your unit, and so you can ensure it works efficiently, does not operate when not needed, or waste energy.
Conclusion
HVAC maintenance is crucial to prevent costly repair work later on. Taking care of smaller issues before they turn into bigger problems will save you money and time. So schedule regular inspections of your HVAC system to identify problems and tackle them immediately to ensure your HVAC system works efficiently.
