10 HVAC Maintenance And Tune-Up Tips For Homeowners

Your HVAC system is what you depend on for year-round comfort in your home as a homeowner. But have you ever considered how regular maintenance can impact its performance and longevity? In this blog post, we'll explore the top 10 HVAC maintenance and tune-up tips that can help you keep your HVAC system running smoothly. By understanding the reasons why HVAC preventive maintenance is important, you can avoid costly repairs and make sure your system is working at peak efficiency. So, whether you're a seasoned homeowner or are new to it, these tips can help you keep your HVAC system in great shape.

To ensure your HVAC system is functioning at peak efficiency, it's recommended to schedule professional HVAC preventative maintenance at least once a year or twice a year. Hiring a professional HVAC technician from Home Alliance offers many benefits, including expertise, experience, and access to specialized tools and equipment. Home Alliance technicians are licensed, insured, and offer warranties on their work. A professional technician will take several steps during a maintenance visit, including inspecting and cleaning all components, testing for proper operation, and identifying potential issues before they become major problems.

Changing the air filters is a crucial part of maintaining your HVAC system. Clean filters promote proper airflow and help maintain the system's efficiency. It is recommended that you change your filters at least every 90 days, but you should consider your system's usage and the type of filter you are using, as this may affect the frequency of required filter changes. There are various types of filters available, including fiberglass, pleated, and high-efficiency filters. It's important to choose the right filter for your system and change them regularly to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential damage to your HVAC equipment.

Visual inspection is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance that can help prevent costly repairs and ensure efficient operation. Regular inspections help identify issues such as dirty coils, loose connections, and refrigerant leaks before they cause major problems. During an inspection, homeowners should look for signs of wear and tear, unusual sounds, or unusual odors. DIY inspection tips include checking air filters, inspecting ductwork for leaks, and testing thermostat accuracy. By performing regular visual inspections, homeowners can ensure their HVAC system operates optimally and prolong its lifespan.

Proper maintenance of your indoor HVAC unit includes ensuring that the surrounding area is clean and unobstructed to allow for efficient airflow. Clutter, such as boxes or furniture, can obstruct air vents and prevent air from circulating properly. This can result in reduced comfort and increased energy bills. To reduce clutter, homeowners should consider using storage solutions, such as shelving or cabinets, to keep the area around the unit clear. It's also important to vacuum and dust the area regularly to prevent dust and debris from accumulating on the unit and obstructing airflow.

Keeping the area around the outdoor unit clean and clear is important for the efficient functioning and longevity of the HVAC system. Debris and vegetation around the unit can clog the air filters and reduce airflow, leading to increased energy consumption and equipment wear and tear. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the area around the unit can help prevent these issues. Tips for reducing debris and vegetation around the unit include keeping a clear perimeter, trimming nearby vegetation, and regularly removing leaves and other debris.

To maintain a comfortable indoor environment and save energy, it's important to regulate your home temperature. It's recommended to set the thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer and in the winter to 68 degrees Fahrenheit for better energy efficiency. Consider using a programmable thermostat for better control over the temperature settings, and to save more energy, you can program it to adjust the temperature when you're not at home.

Properly functioning thermostat batteries are essential for maintaining the accuracy of temperature readings and ensuring that the HVAC system operates efficiently. The recommended frequency of battery changes depends on the type of thermostat and the type of batteries used. However, as a general rule, replacing the batteries at least once a year is a good idea. Neglecting to change the batteries can result in inaccurate temperature readings and potentially higher energy bills.

Maintaining carbon monoxide detectors is crucial for detecting the presence of this toxic gas, which is odorless and colorless. The recommended frequency of detector checks is typically once a month. Signs of a malfunctioning detector include a beeping sound or error message, a yellow or red light, or inconsistent readings. Regular maintenance and prompt replacement of malfunctioning detectors can help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Monitoring energy bills is essential to keep track of energy usage and costs. It can help identify areas of high consumption, leading to cost savings and reducing carbon footprint. Signs of increased energy consumption include higher-than-usual bills, frequent repairs, and overheating of appliances. To reduce energy consumption, one can upgrade to energy-efficient appliances, install programmable thermostats, and turn off unused electronics.

Total replacement of a system is necessary when the existing unit is beyond repair or when the cost of repair service exceeds the cost of a new unit. Benefits of upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient unit include improved comfort, lower energy bills, and reduced environmental impact. Factors to consider when choosing a new unit include the size of the unit, the energy efficiency rating, and the cost of installation and maintenance. It is also important to consider the climate and the specific needs of the building or home.

Remember, regular HVAC maintenance is key to saving money and ensuring the longevity of your system. Take action today to save money on your energy bills and keep your home comfortable.

If you are uncomfortable performing routine maintenance or require HVAC repair services, you can count on Home Alliance. We are your reliable provider of HVAC service in Los Angeles. Get in touch with us and book a service schedule appointment today.