The efficiency of your home’s heating and cooling system is very important. It should be a top priority of every homeowner to keep their HVAC system in top running condition. To remain comfortable in the warm and cool months, a heating and cooling system must be able to provide the comfort needed. If a HVAC system is not maintained then it will not remain efficient. To keep your system as reliable as possible, use the tips below.
It is important to replace your furnace filter every ninety days. You will need to replace your filter with a one inch pleated filter to keep your system running smoothly. Pets will cause a homeowner to have to replace their filter more than the standard ninety day period. Pet hair can clog a filter quicker than usual. These filters range from $10 and higher.
Be sure to keep a good amount of clearance around the area of your outdoor unit. Air conditioning units outside as well as heat pumps will need at least two feet of space around them to be clear.
Homeowners will also need to take time to clean up debris from their outdoor systems. Heat pumps as well as air conditioner units can collect debris rather quickly. Be sure to always remove fallen branches and leaves to keep your system running smoothly.
On a monthly basis, homeowners need to be sure to inspect their refrigerant lines that lead into the home. These lines must remain insulated so homeowners will need to replace any missing or damaged lines. Also make sure to check that the ground remains level around your outdoor units. This will help retain the integrity of the unit.
Once a year, homeowners can pour bleach on the condensate drain. This will help prevent algae and mold from building up on the drain. If the drain gains mold or algae, the drain can clog, which will cause problems with the system.
During the summer months, homeowners can shut off their water supply to the humidifier on their furnace. Then in the fall, the humidifier wick filter can be replaced and the water supply turned on. Also be sure to keep most of your home registers open. If more than 20% of your registers are cut off, this could cause your unit to work overtime, which will cause strain on the system.
Take the time each spring to wash and dry your filters as well as clean off your vacuum condenser coils from your window units if this applies.
10 FAQs About How to Maintain the Efficiency of Your HVAC System
1. How often should I replace my furnace filter?
It’s recommended to replace your furnace filter every 90 days. However, if you have pets, you may need to replace it more frequently due to pet hair clogging the filter.
2. What type of filter should I use for my HVAC system?
Use a one-inch pleated filter to keep your system running efficiently. These filters can range from $10 and up, depending on quality and brand.
3. How much space should I leave around my outdoor AC unit?
Ensure at least two feet of clearance around your outdoor air conditioning unit or heat pump to allow proper airflow and maintain system efficiency.
4. Why is it important to clean debris around my outdoor HVAC unit?
Debris such as leaves and branches can accumulate around outdoor units, potentially blocking airflow and reducing system efficiency. Regular cleaning helps keep the unit running smoothly.
5. How do I maintain refrigerant lines for my HVAC system?
Inspect refrigerant lines monthly to ensure they are properly insulated. Replace any damaged or missing insulation to maintain the efficiency of your HVAC system.
6. Should I check if my outdoor unit is level?
Yes, it’s important to make sure the ground around your outdoor units is level to help maintain the integrity and performance of the system.
7. How can I prevent mold and algae buildup in my condensate drain?
Once a year, pour bleach into the condensate drain to prevent mold and algae buildup, which could cause clogs and impact your system’s performance.
8. Should I turn off the water supply to my furnace humidifier in the summer?
Yes, shut off the water supply to your furnace humidifier during the summer, and in the fall, replace the humidifier wick filter and turn the water supply back on.
9. Can closing too many air registers affect my HVAC system?
Yes, if you close off more than 20% of your home’s air registers, it can cause strain on your HVAC system and lead to inefficiency or damage.
10. How can I maintain window AC units?
In the spring, take time to wash and dry the filters and clean the vacuum condenser coils of any window units to ensure optimal performance.