The breaking down of heating, air conditioning, and ventilation (HVAC) systems can result in a high cost to a business, a rental property or a homeowner. In fact, any unplanned HVAC downtime can be costly for any business.
There is no doubt that investing in a good HVAC system is critical for businesses as well as rental property owners. However, as OnsiteProperty.com says, having an efficient HVAC system is only the first step. In order to ensure that your system functions efficiently, the equipment still needs to be regularly maintained. Regular maintenance help prevents unexpected breakdowns.
Here is a checklist of 5 HVAC maintenance tips that can help you ensure that your HVAC system runs smoothly and efficiently:
1. Keep a checklist of issues to inspect
It will be easier for you to inspect your HVAC system if you perform some of these basic checks:
- Check the start cycle of your HVAC system so that you know it starts, operates, and shuts off as it should.
- Check the heat exchanger, coils, burner, and level of the refrigerant fluid.
- Evaluate the filter, assess the belt for wear and tear, and ensure that the system is intact.
- Assess the airflow.
- Wipe and clean all the components, including the ducts and tubes.
- Check for water leaks.
- Lubricate the moving parts of the motor to lessen friction.
- Check the thermostat to ensure that it is set properly to meet your needs.
2. Clean HVAC coils
For your HVAC system to function efficiently, the condenser coils must be kept clean. Cleaning this part not only ensures better airflow but also lowers the cost of running the machine and ensures that the air quality is improved. If the coils are not maintained, it can lower the cooling efficiency, put more stress on the HVAC system, and result to higher energy bills.
3. Changing HVAC filters
One of the most common reasons why an HVAC does not function well or pumps out dirty air is because of a dirty filter. A clean filter is vital because it helps circulate clean air. If the filter is dirty, this will make the HVAC system work a lot harder and decrease the lifespan of the system.
A dirty filter will also allow more dirt and pet dander in the circulation, which can trigger allergies . Finally, a clean air filter means less dirt will be flying around in the circulating air, and you will have less cleaning to do.
In short, HVAC system filters should be changed regularly. Even the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) recommends changing dirty furnace filters as this measure is critical for optimum efficiency of your HVAC system.
4. Clean debris from the HVAC system
Like all appliances, HVAC can also accumulate dirt and debris both on the external and internal surfaces. The external unit may be surrounded by plants, leaves, twigs, pollen, insects, and grass.
Make sure that your system is free of all debris within a radius of at least two feet to ensure that the components do not get damaged. You can clean the debris yourself but make sure you take certain precautions. Always wear a face mask and gloves.
Make sure the system is turned off before you open it. Use a water hose and ensure that the fan and the walls of the unit are all cleaned properly. Make sure you also clean the air conditioner coil at the same time with a coil cleaner.
However, if you have never cleaned an HVAC unit, and are unsure if you can do it properly, you should let a professional handle it. Whatever you do, you must ensure your HVAC is cleaned regularly.
5. Regular maintenance
One of the best ways to increase the longevity of your HVAC system is to have it regularly maintained. For the AC usage during the summer, the HVAC is best inspected and maintained in spring. For the furnace usage during the winter, the HVAC is best inspected and maintained in the fall. During the regular maintenance, an HVAC professional will do all checks stated above.
Today, most HVAC companies offer annual maintenance services at affordable prices. For a few hundred dollars each year, you can get the system maintained. Remember, regular maintenance is a lot more cost-effective then spending thousands of dollars if the system breaks down because it was not maintained properly.
All in all, a well-maintained HVAC system can significantly improve the quality of life, lower the cost of utility bills, decrease repair bills, and ensure that everyone works/sleeps well. These HVAC maintenance tips are applicable to property owners, rental property investors, and businesses as each and everyone requires proper heating and cooling to live and work comfortably. Unnecessary breakdowns can affect productivity and can also cause discomfort to those affected, whether they are your employees, tenants, or family members.