When it comes to comfort in your home, the performance of your heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) system is crucial. That performance often depends on the level of maintenance and care you provide your system!
There are many types of HVAC systems out there, from multi-stage to zoned systems to different heating and cooling systems. Ideally, the type of system installed in your home should be tailored to your specific needs and comfort goals. This can make it simpler and easier for you to maintain optimal comfort in your home with minimal HVAC maintenance and repairs over the years.
Keeping your system running smoothly
There are many simple ways you can easily maintain your HVAC system on a regular basis to ensure it is running at optimal efficiency. At Southland Heating & Air Conditioning, we have been working on HVAC systems big and small for decades. We know the ins and outs of regular HVAC maintenance.
We’ve provided some helpful home tips below to keep your system on track!
Don’t forget the filters
One of the most overlooked maintenance items by homeowners is forgetting to replace their air filters on a regular basis. Allowing a heavily clogged or dirty filter to stay in the home can not only decrease airflow but can also hinder your HVAC system’s performance and reduce indoor air quality. By simply replacing your dirty air filter, you may be able to reduce your system’s energy usage by up to 15%! Aim to clean your system’s air filter every one to two months when using your system heavily, such as in the summer. Some filters may last up to three months, however, you should still check on a monthly basis to make sure your filter isn’t clogged or collecting too much dirt. When you have pets, you may need to stay on top of your filter more regularly!
Check your window seals
Even if your HVAC system is perfectly healthy, if your window seals between the AC and window frame (for room ACs) is damaged, it could allow all that cool air to escape outside.
This means your system is going to have to work even harder to get that perfectly cool temperature you are looking for, causing more wear and tear and spiking up your energy bill.
Moisture can often damage the seal, so make sure to check this every few months, especially after heavy rains or humidity.
Keep your system neat & tidy
Just like you need to go through spring cleaning in your household, your HVAC system needs seasonal “cleaning” or maintenance. In the meantime, you’ll need to do some regular cleaning to ensure there isn’t a major build up each year.
You should make sure the outdoor condenser or compressor unit stays clean, especially since it is exposed to the elements. Check for major dirt, debris, or foliage that may crowd it. Keep any trees or shrubs at least two feet away from the outdoor unit!
As mentioned above, changing your air filter and keeping vents free of debris or blockage can also help boost performance. Doing small things to keep your system clean over time can help prevent major maintenance or repairs down the road.
Leave the major work to the experts
When you really want to make sure your HVAC system is operating efficiently, getting a heating and cooling professional to perform a thorough service is key. Ideally, you’d have maintenance performed at least one time per year, but inspection and maintenance before summer and winter are highly recommended.
An HVAC typically does the following:
- Makes sure there is the proper amount of refrigerant
- Inspects for any leaks with professional equipment
- Test for any duct leakage
- Properly measure airflow from the evaporator coil
- Apply oil to motors for better performance
- Review thermostat accuracy
- Determine if belts need replacing
- Various other elements
All of these steps should be handled by a trained HVAC professional. Leaving it to the pros also takes the pressure off you as the homeowner and prevents any future issues from festering that may not be noticed without a trained eye.
Staying on the top of HVAC maintenance
While Newbury Park enjoys relatively moderate weather year-round, don’t forget to get your HVAC system regularly serviced so you are ready for any type of weather! More than that, regular maintenance ensures proper performance, better indoor air quality, and can actually save you money on energy bills over time.
We recommend you follow a basic HVAC checklist to make sure you don’t miss any potential issues during the check-up process. Of course, leaving the more serious maintenance to our HVAC professionals is always the best way to protect your investment. We are highly skilled and heating and cooling professionals backed by years of industry experience. When we come in for regular maintenance, we get your HVAC system running at peak performance, no matter the time of year!
Think it’s time for a system tune-up? Get Southland Heating & Air Conditioning on the job today! Reach out to set up a service.
