As a homeowner, it is important to take the initiative to keep your home safe and comfortable. With this in mind, many often opt for doing HVAC maintenance on their own instead of calling an AC and heating service. Of course, who would not want to save money on improving the air quality inside their homes? It is a proactive way to save money and gives you the power to take control of your HVAC systems at the same time. Indeed, with little time and effort, you can save money on costly fixes. All these while improving your system’s performance and making it last longer. This article will provide you with the information you need to take care of your home’s comfort confidently.
Common DIY HVAC Maintenance Tasks
Homeowners should be familiar with these basic heating and cooling maintenance tasks when DIYing their HVAC maintenance. To keep your HVAC system running well, follow this expert guide:
Regularly replace air filters.
One of the easiest but most important ways to care for your HVAC system is to change the air filters. Dirty filters can stop air from moving through and make the system less effective. So check your filters once a month and change them every one to three months, or as the manufacturer suggests.
Keep outdoor units clean.
If you have an outdoor HVAC unit (condenser), make sure it is clear of things like leaves, grass, and dirt. Clean the box often with a garden hose to remove any buildup.
Clear the vents and registers.
Make sure that none of your home’s vents or registers are blocked. Move furniture, rugs, and other things away from the vents to help the air move properly.
Check and clean indoor coils.
Dust and debris can eventually accumulate on the indoor coils of your HVAC system, affecting its efficiency. Turn off the power before doing AC or furnace maintenance. Once the power is disconnected, gently clean the coils with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner.
Inspect and clean condensate drain lines.
The condensate drain line removes the water your HVAC system makes. Check this line occasionally to ensure it is not clogged or blocked. You can clean the line with bleach and water if you need to.
Test the thermostat functionality now and then.
Make sure your thermostat is working right by checking it. See whether it shows the right temperature and stays in that setting. If you need to, replace the batteries.
Observe and maintain proper clearance.
Make sure that your HVAC system has enough space around it. Remove anything that could block the airflow, such as boxes, furniture, or plants.
When to Seek Professional Help for HVAC Maintenance
It is usually best to call a pro HVAC maintenance technician in the following situations:
Annual Maintenance
Before the cooling or heating season starts, you should call a professional to check your HVAC unit at least once a year. Yearly AC maintenance helps ensure your system is in good shape and can work well for the whole season.
Performance Issues
You should call an expert if you notice big changes or anything odd in how your HVAC system works. That may include poor heating or cooling, inconsistent airflow, strange noises, or bad smells. These issues could be signs of deeper issues that need help from a professional.
High Energy Bills
If your energy bills went up suddenly, it could be that your HVAC system is not working as it should. A professional can check the system and tune it up to make it work better and save you money on energy costs.
Frequent Breakdowns
If your HVAC system breaks down too often or needs frequent fixes, it is a sign that something is wrong. A professional expert can determine and explain why the same problems keep happening. Then, a pro will find a way to fix them or suggest replacing the system if necessary.
Unusual Smells or Indoor Air Quality Concerns
If you smell burning, musty, or moldy smells coming from your HVAC system, it is important to have it serviced. Poor air quality inside can also make people sick. A professional can figure out where the problem is coming from and offer ways to fix it.
Heating and Air Service Near Me
Are you a homeowner looking for tips on how to keep your HVAC system running smoothly? Regular maintenance and timely help from a professional can make your HVAC system last longer, make it more efficient, and make sure it works at its best. Plus, it lowers the chances that you will have to pay for expensive repairs or replace them too soon.
If you are looking for top-notch AC and heating service in San Marino or South Pasadena, CA, contact Pioneers Heating and Air. Whether it is an air conditioning installation, repair, or maintenance, our skilled technicians have you covered. We also specialize in home furnace maintenance, ensuring your heating system operates efficiently and reliably during the colder months. Do not hesitate to give us a call to request pricing and availability.
