HVAC Maintenance Tips: Steps To Make Sure It Lasts Long

Home Air Conditioner Repair Port St. Lucie | Whether it’s the unbearable heat on hot and humid summer days or the uncomfortable chill during winter nights, you can always rely on your HVAC to keep you comfortable as long as it’s in top condition. Depending on various factors, most air conditioners last up to ten years max. But if you are careful about how you use and maintain it, you can keep it running for fifteen years or even twenty with some home air conditioner repair in Port St. Lucie needed now and again. It will also help you avoid costly repairs and replacement costs for much longer.

Maintenance Tips For Long Lasting HVAC

1) Replace/Clean Air Filters

Air filters keep the dust and bacteria in the air flowing into the system out and protect the components inside but the dust may collect over time and block the airflow. You need to keep the filters clean to prevent this. If the filters are reusable, clean them once every month, but if they aren’t, then replace them once every three months. The exact duration may differ based on the model you install. You may also buy electrostatic filters to increase the amount of dust and germs filtered and improve air quality.

2) Schedule Periodic Servicing

You need to get your system serviced even if it is working fine because it may have some minor issues that may turn major if not fixed soon. Research reliable HVAC companies in Port St. Lucie and schedule a maintenance service once or twice a year. If you schedule it twice, be sure to schedule them during late fall and early spring to ensure that your system is ready for winter and summer respectively.

3) Keep Outdoor Units Clean

Your system may include outdoor units that play an important role in the cooling/heating process. Based on where they’re installed, the outdoor units may come in contact with dirt, debris, moisture, pests, etc. You need to clean them once every month. Remove the leaves, branches or other debris that fall on it. Turn the unit off and wash it with a water hose gently. Keep the area of 2 sq. feet around it clear. Make sure that they are placed on plain and even platforms.

4) Check For Problems

Some minor issues may go unnoticed until they become major, so check your system for problems like leaks and strange noises. You can also install gas detectors to detect refrigerant or carbon monoxide leaks. If you notice any issues, call a home air conditioner repair in Port St. Lucie immediately.

5) Install Smart Thermostat

You can program the smart thermostat with the help of your mobile app to avoid electricity wastage and increase the HVAC’s lifespan. Setting it to the highest or lowest temperature will not heat or cool the room faster but will draw more power and force your system to work harder, so set the thermostat to room temperature during summer to save electricity and increase the system’s lifespan. You can also program the thermostat to reduce/increase the temperature or switch on/shut down during times when you don’t need the HVAC.

6) Shut Water Supply To Humidifier In Summer

You don’t need a humidifier during summer, so shut the water supply until fall. During fall, turn the supply back on and set humidity between 35 to 45 percent.

7) Check Vent And Ductwork

The air vents need to be clean for proper airflow so make sure that they are clogged with dust. If your system includes the ductwork, have it inspected by HVAC companies in Port St. Lucie periodically for blockage and pest infestation. Have the ducts and vents cleaned if needed?

8) Clean Condensate Drain Lines

Condensate drain may be clogged with algae and mold. Pour a cup of bleach solution down the drain once every year to unclog it.

9) Check Furnace Flame

Your furnace’s flame should be blue. If it turns orange or yellow then call a technician.