When is the last time you changed the filters on your HVAC unit? What about getting a regular checkup done? If you are ignoring your HVAC unit, you are making a mistake you’ll regret.
Common HVAC maintenance mistakes cost you money that could be better spent elsewhere. Caring for your unit in between regular HVAC maintenance is the best way to make sure your common HVAC issues don’t turn into major ones. Read on for six common HVAC maintenance mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Not Properly Cleaning Your Vents
Keeping your vents clean keeps the air circulating through your home. You should get your vents cleaned as part of your regular HVAC maintenance schedule. Between regularly scheduled maintenance, you should clean them once a month.
You can’t clean them with anything, though. If you use anything but cloth and soapy water, you’ll damage the paint and material coatings on the vent. Remove the vents and wash them in soapy water with a soft cloth, then let them dry before replacing them.
2. Not Replacing Filters Often Enough
Your HVAC unit’s air filters are how you keep your home’s indoor air quality up. Regularly replacing your filters also help to keep your energy bills down. Take a look at your filters every month to make sure they aren’t clogged.
Replacing your filters every two or three months is the sweet spot for most HVAC units. If you replace them more often than that, you’re wasting money. Working that into your HVAC maintenance budget keeps your indoor air quality high!
3. Not Paying Attention To Odd Smells Or Noises
Odd smells or noises coming from your HVAC units are one of the most common HVAC issues your unit can develop. If you smell rotten eggs, mold, or burning coming from your unit, it’s time to call your local HVAC repair service. The same goes for strange or loud noises coming from your HVAC unit.
4. Not Cleaning Your Outdoor HVAC Unit
Your outdoor HVAC unit needs to be free and clear of trash and other debris. If the outdoor unit gets cluttered, it can affect the indoor airflow and air quality. Check around the unit at least once a month and use gloves when clearing the unit of clutter.
Keeping the unit clean keeps your system running efficiently. Even the smallest amount of dust and debris that gets into your system can negatively affect it. A monthly sweep of the area around your outdoor HVAC unit can save you a lot of money.
5. Not Scheduling Regular Maintenance
Having a regular maintenance schedule can stop the most common HVAC issues before they start. If you don’t have regular HVAC maintenance done, then you’re asking to spend money on larger issues when they do crop up. Get your HVAC unit a checkup once a year, and your system will last longer and perform better.
6. Not Consulting A Professional
When it comes down to it, the best way to avoid maintenance mistakes is to call a professional when problems crop up. Repairing HVAC systems is what they do, after all. Change your filters and wash your vents, but if you hear or smell something, call in the professionals!
HVAC Maintenance Mistakes To Avoid
Avoiding common HVAC maintenance mistakes is the best way to keep your system in tip-top shape. Don’t ignore the warning signs that your unit gives you. Call in the professionals and treat your system right.
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