How Do You Maintain an HVAC System?

How Do You Maintain an HVAC System?

Your Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system is arguably one of the most important systems in your home. After all, this system is res

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Your Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system is arguably one of the most important systems in your home. After all, this system is responsible for keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer and ultimately ensuring you are comfortable in your home all year round. Anyone that has faced a failure with their HVAC system during the coldest winter months or the hottest summer months can articulate how unbearable it was to stay in their home at the time. Completing a few routine maintenance tasks throughout the year can help keep your HVAC system running smoothly, and reduce the risk of any unexpected and sudden failures with your system. So how Do You Maintain an HVAC System?

Here are a few simple HVAC maintenance items you can perform to help preserve the health of your system:

1. Replace Filters

The filter keeps your system and air clear of any large particles. If your filters become clogged and do not get replaced, your HVAC system struggles as airflow is reduced. Any strain on your system can lead to reduced efficiency and potential damage to your system, not to mention a decline in the quality of air being circulated through your home. Your air filter should be replaced at least 4 times a year, if you have pets in the home or if anyone in the home has respiratory issues you should be replacing your filter monthly.

2. Ensure Proper Air Flow For Condensing Unit

Your outdoor air conditioner unit or condensing unit draws air through its fins utilizing the built-in fan. The air that gets sucked into the unit cools down a special coolant which in turn is used to cool the air being forced through your home. If the condensing unit is blocked by shrubs and trees, the unit is unable to draw in the required amount of air to run efficiently. It is good practice to cut back shrubs and bushes that surround your unit every spring to ensure your unit can receive the proper airflow.

3. Clean the Condensing Unit

When you are outside trimming back any foliage around your condensation unit, take this time to visually inspect the fins and fan for any debris or built-up dirt and grime. The same way as bushes can reduce the airflow, so can debris in the fins. Clear out any loose leaves and debris using an air compressor, if this doesn’t clear it try to spray the unit down with your garden hose. You should not use the highest pressure setting or a pressure washer as you want to avoid damaging the unit.

4. Have Your Ducts Cleaned

Having your ducts cleaned every 2-3 years allows for air to circulate through your home more efficiently, it also helps improve the air quality in your home. Cleaning your registers and vents annually is a good practice as it assists in maintaining efficiency.

5. Clean Your Air Conditioner Drain

Your air conditioning unit has a small dripping line on the outside called the condensate drain. This drain is responsible for removing any excess condensation produced. If the line becomes clogged or isn’t draining properly mold and algae can grow inside and further clog the drain, causing all sorts of issues including reduced efficiency and unwelcomed odors. Clogs can often be cleared using suction, a wet/dry shop vac is a great tool to clear the blockage and suck up any sitting water in the drain pan. Once the line is cleared, flush the pipe with some peroxide or distilled vinegar to remove any remaining debris.

Completing the above routine HVAC maintenance tasks will help keep your system running efficiently, having a professional HVAC specialist inspect and tune-up your system seasonally (Summer and Winter) will also assist in keeping your system running optimally and virtually eliminate the possibility of unforeseen breakdowns in your HVAC system. A trusted HVAC technician from DeMarco Mechanical Service would be happy to assist with your GTA residential and commercial HVAC repair and maintenance needs. Call today
416-820-9155.

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