Your furnace and air conditioner — your HVAC system — play a vital role in keeping your home comfortable year-round. With all the work these systems do, they also require their fair share of routine maintenance. Ongoing maintenance extends the life of your furnace and AC, while also helping you lower utility costs and avoid costly repairs. Here are some basics every homeowner should do.
Replace Filters
Furnace filters trap dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants to protect your HVAC system. However, this buildup can eventually restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder, driving up utility bills and increasing wear and tear. Check your furnace filter monthly to see if it needs to be replaced.
Inspect For Leaks
You should also periodically inspect your furnace and air conditioning unit for damage or leaks that could allow air to escape. Check for leaky ductwork, which can increase your utility bills by 30 percent. You should also check that all air vents in the home are clear and unobstructed, as closed or blocked vents can put added pressure on the system and increase the risk for a leak.
Vacuum the Coils
It’s relatively common for AC units to collect dirt on the coils. This debris buildup can cause the unit to run less efficiently, and even cause the coils to freeze! Using a shop vac to clean the coils will keep you ahead of dirt buildup so your system runs smoothly.
At Capstone Custom Homes, all of our homes come with a one-year warranty that covers everything — and many HVAC manufacturers also provide their own limited warranties. Still, there’s no denying the peace of mind that comes by keeping your system in great shape. By following these tips, you can keep repair technicians away for many years.