Prevention is always better than a repair, so if you want to keep your HVAC system in tip-top shape all year round, you need to learn how to take care of it.
Read on to learn the five essential HVAC care and maintenance tips every homeowner should know.
5 HVAC Tips Everyone With an AC Should Know
1. Know Your AC
General HVAC tips are great, but you need to find out what specific care and maintenance routines your AC system needs. Start with determining what kind of unit you have. Is it a centralized or ductless air conditioning system? Generally, ductless AC units heat/cool one room at a time and do not require a duct system. Meanwhile, centralized systems can cool your entire home by distributing air through your home’s ducts.
Once you know your type of AC unit, determine the brand and model by looking at the condenser unit. You can find manuals for most brands and models online that can give you basic care instructions for your unit.
2. Get a Smart Thermostat
Some homeowners avoid buying a smart thermostat because they feel it’s an unnecessary expense. After all, what’s wrong with using the one you already have, right?
The main advantage of using a smart thermostat is that it adapts to your home’s current temperature. It automatically reduces your AC’s energy consumption when no one is home or if the weather is cool. Over time, the money you save on electricity will more than compensate for the installation of your new thermostat.
3. Clean Your Air Conditioner
A dirty filter compromises your family’s health by spreading bacteria and allergens throughout your home. Dirty AC units can spread germs and lead to asthma, allergic reactions, and other respiratory conditions.
To prevent this, it may be necessary to wipe the fan blades, brush the evaporator coil, and change the air filter at least twice a year. Also, scrub out grime, mold, and mildew buildup. Over time, fungi can make your unit’s airflow feel damp and humid.
4. Watch Out for Obvious Signs of Damage
Call for repairs right away if you notice any of the following:
- Unusual Noises: Keep your ears peeled for strange rattling or clanking noises. Such noises are often caused by loose, flimsy parts that need replacing.
- Strong Odor: A damp, musty stench indicates mold and mildew buildup. Check for any water leaks or puddles that may be causing fungi buildup. If you notice a sharp, burning smell, however, unplug your unit right away, as this may be the result of faulty wiring. Faulty wiring is a dangerous fire hazard, so call for help right away.
- Poor Airflow: The most common causes of poor AC airflow include a frozen evaporator coil, dirty air filter, and broken ducts.
5. Don’t Close the Vents
There’s a common misconception that closing ductwork vents will help reduce your HVAC’s power consumption. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Your central HVAC system distributes hot or cool air evenly throughout your home. Even if you close off one room’s vent, it will still attempt to heat/cool that specific area. So instead of saving on energy, closing the vents will only create a blockage and force your unit to work harder.
Maintaining Your AC System
Let’s face it, though, taking care of your heating and cooling system can be another chore you’d rather put off. There are better things to do than look for leaks, busted wiring, and dirty air filters. Why not hire our HVAC experts at Acker Heating and Cooling instead?
Book an appointment in or near Athens, GA, with us today. We install and repair all kinds of HVAC systems.