HVACs keep your home comfortably cool in the summer and warm in the winter, but keeping your HVAC running smoothly takes a bit of work. Sometimes you can take care of your HVAC on your own and sometimes you need to call in a professional. Follow these five tips for keeping your HVAC running smoothly.
Keep Your Outdoor Condenser Unit Clean
The large condenser unit outside of your home expels heated air. A large fan inside the unit circulates the air so your air conditioner's refrigerant can cool down. But if your garden's hedges, grass, or weeds start growing against the sides of the unit, they may obstruct the vents and prevent the unit from working as well. Some weeds and ivies can even start growing inside the unit and tangle the fan blades. Regularly prune the plants near the unit and keep the grass trimmed low to the ground.
Change the Air Filter Regularly
One of the most important tasks for keeping your air conditioner in good condition is to change the filter regularly. Filters pick up a lot of dirt, dust, and particles from the air as the air runs through the unit. If the filter gets clogged, air can't pass through it easily. This results in warm air, low airflow, or even stress on the HVAC's motor and blower. Set a reminder on your phone to change the filter at least every three months.
Take Note of Changing or Loud Noises
When an HVAC unit is starting to malfunction, it often makes a lot of strange noises. It can start to grind, shriek, or clatter when it used to be silent. You may even notice it start to cycle on and off more frequently or make more noise when it cycles on. Call a technician to inspect your HVAC as soon as you notice loud or strange noises. The sooner you catch developing problems, the better. Catching problems early also means the repairs will cost less.
Look Out for Strange Smells
Loud noises aren't the only sign that your HVAC needs to be inspected. Musty smells can indicate that your vents have mildew or that extra moisture is getting into the system. Rotten smells may indicate dead animals caught in the vents. Burning smells will indicate if a part is overheating or if your HVAC needs immediate repairs. When your home's vents or the air conditioner itself smell strange, call in a technician as soon as possible.
Get a Regular Tune-Up
Every HVAC needs maintenance to keep your home comfortable. The best way to keep your HVAC in great condition and to extend its lifespan is to schedule tune-ups once or twice a year. A trained technician can inspect it for problems, clean the coils and blower, and make sure everything is running smoothly.
HVACs need a bit of attention to stay in good condition. Practicing preventative maintenance and keeping track of changes in your HVAC's noises and smells can help keep it running smoothly throughout the seasons.
