Key Takeaways:
- Preparing for spring is essential for maintaining your HVAC system and ensuring it runs effectively throughout the season.
- Start with cleaning your filters.
- Check the coils and belts, and look for any signs of wear or damage.
- Electric wires must be in top condition and free from corrosion or other damage.
- Finally, schedule maintenance with your HVAC provider to ensure your system is functioning correctly and running efficiently.
With the winter on its entire course, homeowners tend to put their HVAC systems on the back burner. As we make our way into spring, it is essential to take a moment and focus on HVAC maintenance. With these HVAC maintenance tips, you can ensure that your system runs smoothly and efficiently as we transition into warmer weather.
Your trusted plumbing services, Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, will tell you some top maintenance tips to ensure your HVAC unit is in excellent condition:
1. Check your air filter
As pollen and other allergens start to circulate in the springtime air, it’s essential to ensure that your air filter is clean. A dirty air filter will reduce the air quality in your home and make your HVAC system work harder, leading to increased energy costs.
Washing is one of the most effective ways to clean your air filter. However, you must allow the filter to dry before replacing it in your HVAC unit.
2. Inspect your ductwork
Another essential maintenance task is inspecting your ductwork for leaks or holes before spring arrives. Leaky ductwork can not only cause your HVAC system to work harder, but it can also lead to poor indoor air quality.
To check for leaks, hold a piece of paper up to each section of ductwork and look for any areas where the paper flutters. If you find any leaks, seal them with duct tape or mastic sealant.
3. Clean your coils
Your HVAC unit’s coils are vital in heat transfer, so keeping them clean is crucial. If these coils are dirty, your entire system will operate less efficiently and use more energy. To clean your coils, take them out of the unit and wash them with soap and water.
4. Inspect your blower belt
The blower belt in your HVAC unit helps to move air through the system. Over time, the belt can become worn or frayed, which can cause it to slip or break. A broken blower belt can cause your HVAC system to overheat and shut down, so it must be inspected regularly. To check if your blower belt needs to be replaced, follow these steps:
1. Remove the belt from your HVAC unit.
2. Look for any signs of wear or damage.
3a. If you find damage, replace the belt with a new one OR 3b. If there is no sign of wear or damage, put the old belt back on your HVAC unit
5. Lubricate all moving parts
Over time, HVAC parts can become dry or sticky, which can cause them to bind or seize up. This may be due to loss or lack of lubrication on the motor, fan blades, or other moving parts. HVAC systems require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly, and lubrication is one of the most critical aspects of this maintenance.
To lubricate these parts, apply a few drops of oil and wipe away any excess with a rag. A professional service will understand how to lubricate all the parts of an HVAC system for optimal performance.
6. Test your thermostat
An essential part of your HVAC maintenance is the thermostat. Maintaining your home at a comfortable temperature can be difficult without a properly working thermostat.
To test your thermostat, switch it to the “off” position and set it to “cool.” Next, use a thermometer to measure the current temperature inside your home. If there are any fluctuations in temperature, you may need to replace or adjust your thermostat to ensure it is working perfectly.
7. Check your refrigerant levels
Primarily, your HVAC maintenance should focus on your cooling system. One of the most important aspects of keeping your HVAC system running smoothly is ensuring that your refrigerant levels are adequately maintained. Thus, getting ready for the spring and summer months is essential.
Checking these levels may also help detect any leaks your HVAC system may have. If your refrigerant levels are too low, it can put extra stress on other HVAC system components.
8. Inspect all electrical connections for corrosion and tightness
This is an essential maintenance task for your HVAC system. Electrical links that are loose or corroded can lead to a fire hazard and should be addressed immediately. Suppose you’ve had your HVAC system for more than a few years. In that case, it’s better to have an electrician inspect your system and ensure everything is in good working order.
9. Schedule a professional tune-up for your system
Not everyone is born a technician; thus, it is impossible for everyone to perform HVAC maintenance tasks like a professional. When it comes to keeping your HVAC system running properly, the best thing you can do is schedule a professional tune-up from time to time.
The complications of such a task can mean that even a small issue, such as an air filter that is clogged and dusty, can lead to increased operating costs for your entire HVAC system. So, when the temperatures start warming up and spring arrives, ensure you trust only a professional.
End Note:
So as you tackle the current winter and prepare for spring, perform these HVAC maintenance tasks to ensure that your system runs properly and efficiently. Once completed by a professional, you can rest assured that your HVAC system will keep you comfortable and warm all season long. Welcome spring with confidence by taking care of your HVAC system today!
HVAC Maintenance in Manchester, NH
Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, serving Manchester, NH, is your go-to source for expert HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair services. Whether you need help with a faulty system or want to schedule routine maintenance, our team has the experience and expertise to get the job done right.
