Keeping your HVAC running smoothly will save you money and keep you comfortable. Preventative maintenance is the best way to extend the life of your HVAC system. Here are a few tips on how to do that!
HVAC Delaware Professionals with an HVAC-R (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) license are in high demand throughout Delaware. The state offers licensure at the journeyman and master level through the Board of Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Examiners.
Change the Air Filter
The air filter is vital to your HVAC Delaware system, trapping particles that would otherwise pass through the unit and into your home. When the air filters get dirty or clogged, your system works harder to keep the property warm or cool, causing it to consume more energy and potentially leading to costly repairs.
Changing the air filter is an easy task that can be done in a few minutes each quarter. It can also save you money on energy costs.
Before removing the cover or filter, turn off the power to your unit for safety reasons. This will prevent the system from sucking debris back in while you are working on it.
Remove the old filter, place it in a garbage bag, or dispose of it properly. Replace the filter with a new one, ensuring it is inserted correctly for proper airflow. The filter should have an arrow indicating in which direction air should flow (away from the return air ducts and toward the blower mechanism). Close the cover/grille and turn your system back on.
Turn on Fans
If you install ceiling fans, they can work with your air conditioner to create a comfortable environment. By rotating in the right direction, they can push cool air down and prevent hot air from rising to the next level. This collaborative effort from your AC unit and ceiling fans will help reduce energy consumption.
Fans can also be used to move virus-containing particles from the air to the outside, but this requires that they be kept on continuously and that you change the filters frequently. It’s worth noting that this can add to your heating and cooling bills, but it may be worth it if you have severe allergies or asthma.
Keep the Unit Clean
Whether you have disposable or permanent air filters, keeping them clean is vital to ensuring the proper flow of air. When filters are dirty or clogged, the system has to work harder to move air through the house. This causes extra stress and can cause the unit to break down sooner. It also raises utility bills.
Make sure to check the outside of your unit often for any debris that might be collecting. The area surrounding the outdoor compressor or condenser can become a collection point for leaves, twigs, grass clippings, etc. Keep them trimmed back two feet and hose the unit down regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system of your investment property can be a significant expense for landlords. However, regular maintenance and preventative repairs can reduce energy consumption, extend lifespans, and keep tenants comfortable.
The key is regularly checking and replacing the air filter and contacting an HVAC Delaware professional for routine inspections. These services can help catch issues before they escalate into costly repair jobs or replacements.
