Maintenance Tasks You Should and Shouldn’t Do
When it comes to home comfort, nothing offers you a better return on your investment than a great HVAC system. That’s particularly true in regions like Greater Orlando where summers are long, hot and humid. Keeping the AC and heating equipment in good condition is the key to reaping the full rewards of its comfort. While there’s no substitute for professional maintenance plans, there are several tasks you can easily tackle on your own. Other jobs are best left in the hands of an experienced HVAC technician.
Do Change the Air Filter
Clogged or dirty filters have a significant impact on HVAC performance. They reduce airflow, forcing the system to expend more energy to keep you cool or warm. An obstructed filter can also allow dirt to damage the equipment. Changing the filter regularly can reduce energy consumption by up to 15 percent and can safeguard you from unexpected repairs.
Have a Professional Clean the Coils
Your system’s evaporator and condenser coils can collect dirt over time. This impairs their ability to remove heat from your home. Ice can form on dirty coils too. That can lead to leaks that not only ruin the equipment but also damage your property. To avoid harming these critical components, most experts recommend that you let an HVAC professional handle this task.
Do Check the Outdoor Unit
The compressor housed in the outdoor unit needs optimal airflow to function properly. Everything from falling leaves to cut grass can impede the flow of air. Keep the area free of debris and prune back plants at least 2 feet from the equipment. Make sure that there is 5 feet of clearance between the unit and any overhanging trees.
Do Clear the Fins
The grill of metal fins on the outdoor unit is also important for maintaining proper airflow. It’s ok to gently hose off this part of the air conditioner. As the fins bend easily, avoid applying too much pressure when performing this task. Bent fins can be straightened with specialized tool called a fin comb. Reputable HVAC technicians routinely realign fins as part of scheduled AC or heat pump maintenance.
Have a Professional Maintain the Ducts
Forced-air HVAC systems rely on ductwork to deliver conditioned air. Leaks, gaps or loose connections allow the air to escape, driving the system to run longer to keep you comfortable. Sealing and insulating the ducts can save you a significant amount of money. Dirty ducts impact efficiency too. It’s a smart idea to have a pro clean the ducts periodically to optimize airflow and improve indoor air quality.
Have a Professional Check the Refrigerant Charge
Whether it’s a traditional air conditioner or a heat pump, refrigerant is the juice that keeps your AC system running. Too much or too little refrigerant makes the system operate less efficiently, costing you money. The system should be tested at regular intervals for refrigerants leaks as well. You’ll need a professional for this job.
Have a Professional Test Performance
Testing how well your AC and heating system works isn’t as simple as turning it on and checking the temperature. During a professional maintenance visit, multiple components are tested to verify your cooling and heating system is running at peak performance. From the thermostat and starting cycle to the blower operation, everything is calibrated to ensure your cooling comfort. Electrical connections are checked, moving parts are lubricated and every part is inspected for signs of deterioration.
At Frank’s Air Conditioning, our maintenance plans are all about enhancing your comfort while saving energy and your money. Peace of mind is the greatest benefit our maintenance services offer, but you’ll enjoy perks like priority scheduling, deals and discounts too. To learn more, take a look at our HVAC maintenance page or give us a call.