Posted in HVAC
Preparing your heating and cooling system for the next season requires thorough HVAC maintenance. It ensures the system runs smoothly year-round, improves energy efficiency, and prevents costly repairs and breakdowns. As the seasons change, the demands on your AC or furnace change. The following are preventative measures to take so your home is comfortable regardless of the weather:
Change or Clean the Air Filter
A clogged filter restricts airflow and can strain your HVAC system. This can lead to more serious issues, especially when demand increases.
The air filter should be replaced or cleaned at least every three months. Timing filter replacements or cleanings at the start of each season can help you remember this simple maintenance task. Replace the filter more often if you have allergies, pets, or poor air quality in your area.
Clean the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor condenser unit is constantly exposed to the elements. Therefore, it can be affected by dirt, leaves, branches, debris, and other obstructions at any time, but is more likely to be affected in the spring or fall. Remove debris and trim back plants or branches whenever necessary. Meanwhile, snow and ice should be gently removed in the winter. During these essential HVAC maintenance tasks, check for signs of wear or damage that warrant calling a professional.
Clear the Vents
Over time, you may place furniture, curtains, and other items near or over vents without realizing it. This can limit airflow, increasing the work your HVAC system must do. You can help it run more smoothly by checking all vents and registers to ensure they are clear. Move anything blocking them so air can flow freely between your heating or cooling unit and the rest of your home.
Optimize Thermostat Settings
The thermostat should be set to optimize your comfort level during each season. Ideally, keep it at a reasonable temperature to avoid frequent adjustments. But during winter, lower the setting at night or when no one is home. Remember to set it higher when away during the warmer months. This reduces the demand on your HVAC system, so it’s more likely to work smoothly all year.
Also, test the thermostat by adjusting the settings to see if your HVAC unit responds. Change the batteries if necessary. If you feel the system could be more efficient, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat.
Seal and Insulate Your Home
Sealing leaks in ductwork and gaps around windows and doors can prepare your HVAC system for seasonal changes. Proper sealing prevents warm or cool air from escaping or entering your home. If necessary, add or improve the insulation in your walls and attic. These improvements can significantly increase energy efficiency, so they should be a part of your HVAC maintenance routine.
Inspect Your Ductwork
Inspect areas of your ductwork you can access. Look for dust, debris, mold, tears, or leaks. Clean dust and debris from sections you can reach. Small tears and holes can be covered in mastic. If there’s severe contamination, large leaks, or significant damage, call a professional. Also, call a contractor to schedule a duct cleaning if you haven’t had one in several years.
Test Your Heating or Cooling System
Run your HVAC unit in a full cycle before the season starts. Doing so lets you determine if it heats or cools your home effectively. Listen for unusual sounds and feel the airflow near each vent. Testing the system seasonally lets you evaluate it every few months, which helps catch potential issues early. Call your local heating or cooling technician if there are any changes in performance.
Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance
Professional maintenance ensures your HVAC system is ready for any seasonal changes, especially when done in the spring or fall. Your air conditioner is in greatest demand during the summer, and your heater must keep up in winter. Therefore, have these units checked, cleaned, adjusted, lubricated, and repaired before their respective peak seasons to avoid problems when you rely on them most.
Contact Sky Heating & Air Conditioning
In Portland, each season brings new demands on your HVAC system. Our technicians are trained and equipped to provide the maintenance it needs. This can increase performance, efficiency, and indoor air quality and reduce energy and repair costs. Joining the Sky Signature Protection Plan ensures your heating and cooling system is covered throughout the year. To learn more or schedule HVAC maintenance, call (503) 563-2698 today.
