HVAC is an acronym that stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. In other words, HVAC refers to systems that are responsible for heating and cooling a building. They come in all different sizes and specifications for every building type imaginable, residential or commercial.
In Texas, we experience some of the most significant temperature swings worldwide, with sweltering summers reaching triple digits to winters where temperatures can stand in the negatives for up to a week.
So, your HVAC unit works extremely hard all year round. This constant cycle requires ongoing maintenance for your system. Otherwise, you could face a breakdown when heating or cooling is needed most.
Read on for some tips on keeping your system maintained in the coming months.
Get a Tune-Up Before Winter Arrives
While summer is typically the most intense time for our air conditioning unit, winter also puts the system through the wringer. Without preventative maintenance, each year will take a toll on your system.
To maximize your HVAC system’s performance and keep energy bills low, it is essential to schedule tune-ups regularly. Qualified technicians will check every component in the system and troubleshoot wherever necessary.
Check The Entire Wire System for Your HVAC
Summer just ended, and your HVAC was used unsparingly, so the wiring needs to be checked for damage. Wires can deteriorate due to exposure at the connector ends. In case of suspected damage, call a certified technician. An electrician should perform electrical repairs for the safety of the household.
Adjust The Thermostats
Your thermostat is a vital part of your HVAC system. It reads the temperature of your home’s environment and adjusts the heating and cooling units accordingly. Thermostats can run out of batteries or even short circuit. An inspection of your thermostat’s operation should happen at least once a year or with your regular tune-up.
Change Your Air Filters
Air filters work hard in the summer since your indoor air quality worsens with the increase in allergens and pollutants. Air filters quickly build up with dust and other contaminants, so if you didn’t change your filters in the summer, now is the time to ensure your HVAC system doesn’t overheat. Your environment determines how often you change your air filters. If your HVAC is exposed to a lot of dust, pollen, or even pets, then it needs to be changed every month.
This is extremely important as a clogged air duct can restrict airflow. Reliable technicians like those at Mohr can check to see if your ducts are leaking as well. With leaking or congested ducts, you’ll be paying more for air that cannot effectively cool or heat your home.
Keep The Condenser Coils Clean
A dirty condenser coil will not cool the home for you as it will struggle to exhaust heat. Spray it with water to clean it of any debris that accumulated over time. Ensure that the system is switched off before you do this.
Check The Refrigerant Levels
Cooling is achieved through a particular refrigerant that runs low over time. Check the level of refrigerant to ensure your energy bill doesn’t spike. If it is low, DO NOT attempt to add or change the fluid. The only person who can legally handle refrigerant is a certified technician.
Call your dedicated team at Willard Cooling, Heating, Plumbing, & Electrical for all your HVAC needs, including installations, repairs, upgrades, and maintenance.
