Q & A With AC Dave of AC Dave Heating & Air
Q: “What maintenance tasks can I perform myself to keep my HVAC system running smoothly?”
This is a great question! AC Dave owner of AC Dave Heating & Air is always happy to share tips and tricks on how to care for your HVAC system in-between maintenance visits.
Regularly change or clean the air filters
Clogged filters reduce airflow. We recommend changing or cleaning them every 3 months. Homes with pets, as well as people with allergies or respiratory conditions, or multiple people will need more frequent filter changes.
Homes that are used more frequently need more frequent filter changes. Consequenty, vacant homes or vacation homes may only need to be changed every 9–12 months.
You can tell if your filter needs to be changed by: Looking for changes in color or limited airflow, Smelling strange odors, Noticing a buildup of dust around your home, and Seeing rising energy bills.
Keep Vents and Registers clear
Ensure that furniture or curtains are not blocking air vents. This can reduce or disrupt airflow. If you have floor registers, make sure clothes, toys, or trash is not sitting on top of the registers. Futhermore, we also recommend dusting them once a month.
Clean around your outdoor unit
Remove debris from around your condenser such as leaves, dirt, pet hair, or grass. These often accumulate around your outdoor unit also known as your condenser. For the one thing it can which airflow. In addition, check to make sure critters are not using your outdoor unit as a nesting box.
Check and adjust your thermostat
Ensure your thermostat settings are appropriate for the season. Upgrading to a programmable thermostat can help save energy. During the summer, while home, set your thermostat to 78 degrees F. especially when away, increase to 85 degrees F. In the winter while home, set your thermostat to 68 degrees F and when away lower it to 62 Degrees F.
Replace or Clean the Humidifier Filter
If your HVAC system includes a humidifier, clean or replace its filter at least once a year. Thusly, will ensuring proper functioning.
Test Your System’s Airflow
Walk through your home and check to see if the airflow from the vents feels consistent. Weak airflow could indicate a problem with the ducts or need for professional service.
Inspect Insulation on Refrigerant Lines
Ensure the insulation is in tact. In addition to damaged or missing insulation will cause your system to lose efficiency
Listen For Unusual Sounds
If you hear any odd or new noises from your HVAC system, call your licensed technician to inspect your unit. Noises could indicate a number or issues including: loose or broken parts, or a compressor issue. As well as squealing or screeching often signal a problem with a belt or blower motor. Likewise hissing sounds could suggest that your system is leaking refrigerant.
If in Doubt, Call us Out
For deeper inspections or regular pre-paid maintenance call AC Dave Heating & Air. There’s no better time than now, before we get into the winter rush. Tel: 661 270 1961