All HVAC systems need maintenance whether it is brought just a year or two ago or if it is 10 to 15 years older. Wondering why? Consider this, if you brought a new car do you not regularly give it for service or check-ups? You would in all probability. Even if your car is not new, you would still get it checked and tuned regularly so that it runs smoothly on the road. The same applies for your HVAC systems. If you have brought a new system recently, maintenance is needed to make it work efficiently. If it is old, then, it needs to be serviced regularly to boost life. Here is a checklist you should follow for your HVAC systems to work effectively.
Maintenance checklist
If you have a single unit to take care of the heating and cooling of the house then bi-annual maintenance has to be done once in spring and the other in fall. If you have a separate system for heating and cooling, the heating system should be checked in fall and cooling in spring. Regular check-ups are essential to ensure that your house is in a livable condition even during extreme weather.
Things To Check In Summer/Spring
Check for the accumulation of particles on the filter and clean it. If there is a drop in the pressure or airflow replace the filters. The next thing that should be cleaned is the coils so that there is no buildup of mold. Clean the drains of debris so that there is no pollen, twigs, and dirt on the unit. If there is any standing water remove it from the drain. Any worn pulleys and belts should be replaced.
Inspect the refrigerant charge and lines that come into the house and from the HVAC system. If they are worn out it leads to leaks or you will not get the right temperature. Sometimes a change in batteries is needed, check that too while checking the refrigerant. The electrical systems and its connections have to be examined and so should the fan motor. The thermostat controls and the thermostat itself has to be inspected so that they are set properly. Inspect the fan motor for proper functioning. Apply lubricants to all the movable parts so that it works smoothly. Lastly, ensure that the system cabinet door is closed properly.
Things To Check In Winter/Fall
Winter maintenance activities may be similar or different based on whether a single unit is used for heating/cooling or if there is a furnace. If you have a gas furnace check for leaks and appropriate gas pressure. If you are choosing unit heaters over the furnace, then filters need to be replaced and the heating elements are to be checked. The wiring and electrical connections have to be tested so that there are no loose ends. Make sure to check if the thermostat and its controls are set to the temperature you desire. Irrespective of whether it is a furnace or an HVAC system lubricates the moving parts and clear standing water from drains.
The list above gives a general idea of the things that should be taken care of in an HVAC system.
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