Stay comfortable year-round with these expert tips.
You could also save on your monthly energy bills, too.
You don’t have to be an expert to monitor your system.
Some maintenance tasks are better suited for a professional to complete during your annual check up.
Check Thermostat controls
Double check your thermostat controls to ensure everything is running properly with your system.
If any connector is loose, tighten them with the help of a screwdriver or pliers.
Clean or Replace Filters
Air filters have a big role in the performance of your unit.
Inspect & Clean Coils
Condenser coils and evaporator coils are located outside and inside your home.
These coils should be inspected and cleaned twice a year to cool your home properly.
Cleaning condenser and evaporator coils should be done with extreme caution.
Observe Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerants are chemicals that are used to produce cool air.
Monitoring their levels is important to ensure your unit is staying efficient and performing correctly.
To observe refrigerant levels, start by turning off the system.
Locate the gauge on the side of the unit, which should display the refrigerant levels.
If your levels are low, refill with more refrigerant.
Test your control system by turning your system off and on to see if it’s performing properly.
Also check to double-check there are no blinking lights within the panel.
A more in-depth ductwork observation will be completed by your technician.
“Think of your HVAC maintenance like getting your oil changed in your car,” says Earnhardt.
It can also prevent unexpected breakdowns by finding and addressing weak points in the system."
“This ensures that your system is in optimal condition before it is heavily used.
It is also important to have your system inspected after periods of heavy usage or extreme weather conditions.”
Homes with pets will likely need to change air filters out monthly due to pet hair clogs.
Walk through your home to locate any gaps before filling them with caulk.
“it’s possible for you to also enhance HVAC efficiency by installing a programmable thermostat.”
“Our technicians have a maintenance checklist they follow that ensures nothing is missed,” Earnhardt tells us.
After the cleaning portion is completed, the tech will thoroughly check the system for proper operation.
Troubleshooting Common HVAC Issues
Here’s how to solve common HVAC issues.
If the problem still persists, call a professional for an in-depth look.
Sounds Colacicco says to listen for are grinding, clicking, or banging.
Also check your vents and ducts for dust that needs to be cleared to open up airflow.
Air blockages, dirty coils, low refrigerant levels, or clogged filters are just to name a few.
Seasonal HVAC Maintenance Checklists
Here are HVAC maintenance tasks to follow each season for a properly-functioning system.
A simple way to improve the energy efficiency of your HVAC system is to install a smart thermostat.
