Every homeowner knows the importance of an efficient and effective air conditioning and heating system. The fact that your comfort heavily depends on your HVAC system cannot be understated. That’s why ‘Energy Services Air Conditioning and Heating’ brings you the best DIY tips for maintaining your system. This will not only elongate your system’s life but will also ensure its efficiency.
An Overview of Your HVAC System
An HVAC system’s fundamental parts include an air conditioner to cool your home during summer and a furnace for warmth during winter. The two systems share the air handler, which moves conditioned air around your home. To maintain these systems, you should have a proper understanding of how they work and what each part does. Here’s a simple overview of HVAC systems.
The air conditioner’s main components are the compressor and the evaporator coil. The compressor, located outside, compresses refrigerant, turning it into a high-pressure gas. This high-pressure gas moves through the refrigeration lines into the indoor evaporator coil, creating a heat exchange process that cools your home. The furnace, on the other hand, typically uses gas or electricity to produce heat, which the air handler then circulates through your home.
DIY Maintenance Tips
This understanding of your system gives you an idea of where the main issues might arise. It also educates you on where to focus your DIY maintenance efforts. To improve your HVAC system’s efficiency, here are a few simple tips.
Regular filter replacement is a vital maintenance task. Dirty filters cause your system to work harder than necessary, leading to increased energy consumption and declining effectiveness. Regardless of the season, it is advisable to check your filters every month and replace them every 90 days.
Inspection and Cleaning
Inspect your outdoor units regularly. Ensure they are free from debris, leaves, and grass clippings as these can affect the system’s performance. It is beneficial to clean your outdoor units twice a year, preferably during fall and spring.
Another necessary DIY tip is to check your system’s refrigerant lines monthly. These lines should be well insulated to improve efficiency. If you notice damaged insulation, consider replacing it promptly to prevent energy loss.
Ductwork and Thermostat Settings
Lastly, pay attention to your ductwork and thermostat settings. Make sure the ducts are properly sealed to prevent conditioned air from escaping. Also, optimizing your thermostat settings conserves energy and lengthens your HVAC system’s life. For instance, you could set your thermostat 7-10 degrees lower for 8 hours per day to save up to 10% on cooling and heating costs yearly.
While these DIY tips can help in the short term, it is advisable to schedule an annual professional maintenance service with a reputable company like Energy Services Air Conditioning and Heating Company to ensure optimal, long-term performance.