You can Avoid Unnecessary Repairs with These Monthly HVAC Tips

A little elbow grease with home maintenance can help prevent the need for repairs; this is especially true when it comes to your HVAC unit.

Not only will monthly maintenance help keep your system in excellent working order, but it can also help extend your unit’s lifespan. That works out to even more cost savings.

Annual Tune-Up for Energy Efficiency

Speaking of saving money, did you know that getting your HVAC system professionally cleaned and tuned up every year will help reduce your energy bills?

That’s because the technician will make sure that your system’s component are in great shape and are running in the most energy efficient way possible.

While you really only need professional maintenance once a year, people tend to put it off. Some even see it as an unnecessary expense. It’s a cost-effective investment that saves you money down the road.

Check, Clean or Replace the Filter

Speaking of energy efficiency, make sure that your A/C filter is in good shape before the summer gets going. Pop it out and check for wear and tear.

If it is mostly intact and not too dirty, simply wipe it down with a damp sponge or toothbrush, aided by a little warm water and dish soap.

It’s a good idea to change the filter at least once a season (which is one of the services that the technician will do during the annual maintenance, FYI).

You’ll notice when you go to the store that there are a lot of filters to choose from.

Which should you choose? Locate the one with the highest MERV rating (it will be located on the packaging).

The higher the number, the more energy efficient it is. And remember, the more energy efficient a product is, the more that you’ll get back in energy savings.

Clear Debris from the Condenser Outdoors

If there is debris interfering with your condenser unit outside, it will make your indoor unit struggle.

Because it is located outside, there is commonly debris that gathers from plants, trees, grass, etc.

To clean inside the unit, unscrew the cage fan from the top and vacuum anything that has accumulated inside.

Also clean the fins thoroughly with your garden hose.

It might seem like a better idea to use your pressure washer, but don’t do that. You could bend the fins out of shape.