Your HVAC system is an integral part of keeping everyone in your household comfortable and safe at home. Although many of us take our HVAC systems for granted, they play an irreplaceable role in our lives. Unfortunately, many homeowners may not know how to take care of their HVAC systems and as a result, their systems may not work as efficiently as they should. The good news is that there are resources available both online and off that can teach you everything you need to know about taking care of your heating and air conditioning systems. If you’re not sure where to start, keep reading to find out what you need to do to properly maintain your air conditioner.
How do you maintain your air conditioner?
There are a few key air conditioner parts that you should be aware of in order to properly maintain it. The evaporator and condenser coils are two components to know about, as they transfer heat out of your home. If these coils get dirty or blocked, it can cause your air conditioner to work harder and use more energy. You should also regularly clean or replace your air filter, as this helps keep the airflow through your unit unrestricted. Additionally, make sure that you keep the area around your air conditioner free of debris and plants, as these can obstruct airflow and cause the unit to work less efficiently.
If the air conditioner isn’t cooling well, you should check the refrigerant levels. Refrigerant plays a major role in the cooling process of the air conditioner. If the levels are low, the air conditioner won’t be able to cool the air as well. Low refrigerant levels may be the result of a leak in the system, which will need to be fixed by a professional. If there is no leak, then you may need to add more refrigerant. If you think that the refrigerant levels might be low, you should call a technician to check it out. They will be able to test the levels and, if necessary, add more refrigerant.
Why is HVAC maintenance so important?
Your HVAC system is typically your first line of defense against poor indoor air quality. Poor indoor air quality can have a number of negative effects on both your health and your home. In fact, according to the EPA, poor indoor air quality is one of the top five environmental risks to public health. Health problems associated with poor indoor air quality include coronary artery disease, emphysema, respiratory infections, and even certain types of cancer. It can exacerbate the symptoms of conditions like allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD). Other ways to improve air quality include practicing good indoor hygiene, installing an air purifier, and laundering items that trap allergens more frequently.
Regular maintenance is needed, even when nothing appears to be wrong. You should be changing your air filter on a regular basis and having the HVAC unit itself inspected at least once annually. The average lifespan of an HVAC system is between ten and fifteen years, so if your system is over a decade old, it may be time to think about a replacement. However, being proactive about care and maintenance can help you ensure that your system lasts this long, rather than creating a need for premature replacement, which can be quite expensive.
As you can see, while it does take some effort to maintain your HVAC system, it’s well worth it. If you notice a problem with your air conditioner, it’s essential to address it immediately. Some basic issues, like needing a filter change, won’t require professional help, but more complex issues should be dealt with by an experienced HVAC technician. You should also plan to have the air conditioning unit inspected at least once a year, which will allow you to avoid costly repairs by catching any issues that arise. Considering how critical of a role your air conditioner plays in your safety at home, maintaining it should always be a priority for homeowners.
