HVAC Maintenance Checklist for the Fall Season
Posted on October 30, 2017
The average costs to have your HVAC system cleaned by a professional, ranges anywhere between $150 and $425. It cannot be assumed that every homeowner has this allocation in their budget especially in hard economic times. For this reason, I have compiled below some do-it-yourself tips to help you check whether your system is healthy.
Inspect and Replace Your Filters
Inspecting your air filter is one of the most important activities you can do at home. Dirty air filters burden your HVAC system and lowers its performance. This undue strain also tasks its working parts. The best way around this is to put a reminder each month so as to check your air filter status and if its clogged or dirty, replace it. The general rule is to change your filter either once per month or at least once in three months.
Keeping Your HVAC System Debris Free
If your HVAC system consists of an outdoor component, you have to ensure it is free of debris. Every week or so, check your unit for pollen, sticks, dirt, leaves, and other debris. You can either use a hose or simply gloves to clean the top and sides of your unit. A debris free system allows for maximum airflow to the inside of the system including the fan and enhances the lifespan and efficiency of your unit.
Cleaning Your Registers
Your ducts and registers should be clean of any debris and dust. Ensure the registers are wiped as often as it is practicable so that dust and debris doesn’t clog your registers.
Give Your Humidifier a Rest
The water supply to your furnace humidifier should be turned off during summer so as to give your system a rest. As the cooler months approach, the water panel should be replaced, and the relative humidity reset to between 35 and 45%.
Listening for Unusual Noises
As the homeowner, you cannot ignore odd noises coming from your system when it is running. Some of these noises are created by blockages, loose bolts, or even debris. If you hear any noises which are beyond the normal, locate the source of the noise so that you can establish if it is something you can fix or you need a professional.
Incorporate Fans in Your Cooling System
Your system just like many others require a break at one point or the other. One of the ways you can achieve this is through the use of funds on hot summer days. There are many types of fans available including portable fans and ceiling fans. On cooler days, try opening your windows and turn on your fans so as to circulate cool air into the house and keep the temperatures as comfortable as possible.
As you go through your checklist, identify the things you can do yourself such as raking leaves and sealing cracks, those you need to call a reputable HVAC professional. In this way, you will have a good plan on how to approach your fall HVAC tune up.