Most HVAC problems start very small and grow into bigger, more complicated, and costly issues. You may even have to replace the entire system prematurely, which can be quite expensive. Sticking to a strict maintenance schedule is the best way to prevent HVAC damage. You need to take good care of your HVAC system. According to the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA), regular HVAC maintenance can reduce the risk of expensive breakdowns by up to 95%. Here are some steps to ensure that your HVAC system runs smoothly.

Consider a Maintenance Plan

Preventative maintenance is the best way to stop problems from developing. If you regularly skip maintenance because you’re tight on money, it may be a good idea to sign up for a service plan. These plans will entitle you to discounts on HVAC maintenance and repair costs. Many HVAC contractors waive overtime and emergency fees for clients who have signed up for maintenance agreements. A maintenance plan from reputable HVAC contractors is the easiest way to ensure you never skip scheduled maintenance. It may save you some money, too!

Monitor Your HVAC Equipment

You need to pay attention to how your HVAC system functions. If you regularly monitor the system, you’ll notice if anything is out of place much sooner. For instance, you can easily pick up on strange noises like buzzing or thumping if you know how your system normally sounds and behaves. Strange sounds coming from your HVAC system are nearly always a sign that something is wrong. You should also regularly check your system’s performance to ensure that it’s running well. For instance, you should look at the airflow and thermostat status. If anything is out of the ordinary, you likely have a problem on your hands. The sooner you identify an issue, the easier it'll be to take care of. Make sure to call a trusted HVAC contractor right away if you think something may be wrong.

Schedule Annual Maintenance

Your AC system must be inspected and serviced by HVAC contractors at least once a year. A great time to do this would be during the spring. On the other hand, the heater should be checked in the fall. Regular maintenance will keep the system functioning at peak capacity. It'll also ensure that the system doesn't use more energy than necessary while simultaneously reducing the risk of costly repairs in the future.

Replace Your Air Filters Regularly

You should replace your HVAC air filters every 30 to 90 days, according to Bob Vila. This is because these filters often get clogged with dust, dirt, and other debris. This can result in a very inefficient system. Plus, it decreases the air quality and may even damage the system. Therefore, you must inspect your filters each month to see if there are clogs or accumulating debris. Changing the filters every month may be necessary depending on where you stay and the type of system you have. If there are lots of people in your house or if you own pets, you’ll need to change the filters more regularly.

Clean the Vents

Does your HVAC system have ducts? If so, you need to have the vents vacuumed periodically to stop dust and dirt from accumulating and obstructing airflow. You should also keep household items away from vents to promote airflow. Blocking the vents will greatly reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system. It's important to check airflow regularly because weak airflow is a sign that something is wrong. If you notice weak airflow, call an HVAC professional right away.

Clean the Outdoor Unit

Most people tend to forget all about their outdoor units. This can be detrimental to the system. There are a few things to keep in mind. First, you should make sure the unit is on a level surface. Second, you should also clean it from time to time. Otherwise, it may also get clogged. If there’s a lot of dirt on the system, feel free to hose it down. It should be free of leaves, twigs, and debris. A good practice is to cut back all the shrubs and tree branches, leaving about 3 feet of space between them and the unit. If you want to thoroughly clean the unit, disconnect the power, remove the access panel, and then use a vacuum to clear away any debris. You can also wipe down the interior and exterior of the unit to remove any lingering dust or dirt.

One of the most common causes of expensive HVAC repairs is neglect. If you don't maintain your system, it'll
develop serious problems. It may be too late by the time that you notice. This is why you must stick to a strict maintenance schedule and monitor the system for any issues. If you’re looking for reliable HVAC contractors, call Joe Hurley Inc today. We have over 30 years of experience, and we service all brands.