Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are complex machines that provide comfort by heating, cooling, and circulating air in your home or office. Other applications include sanitizing and dehumidifying the air in your home. Older, less efficient units use as much as five times more energy than today’s units.
HVAC companies can help you choose an energy-efficient unit that is right for your home or business and size it appropriately. Professional systems are designed to be more efficient and use less energy. HVAC systems require continual repair and maintenance. The nature of the equipment and the climate in which it operates leave it subject to all kinds of wear and tear.
Today, let’s take a closer look at HVAC Systems and how often you should repair and maintain them. Here’s what you need to know:
Service Periods
Many air conditioning units are designed to last for about a decade. However, many units last less than five years. As your unit gets older, you must perform more frequent maintenance as recommended by the manufacturer. The unit’s owner’s manual will give you maintenance schedules.
What Needs to Be Done
The main parts of most air conditioning systems are:
Fan: The air conditioner cools the air by blowing outside air over a coil. The air that passes over the coil is cooled and then distributed into your home. The fan is usually located inside the unit on the bottom.
Electronics Control Board: This controls the coolant temperature and the compressor.
Wiring: The wiring on the HVAC system runs from your electrical panel to the unit. The wires carry electrical power, and the unit sends a signal to the control board and your thermostat.
The air conditioner cools the air by blowing outside air over a coil. The air that passes over the coil is cooled and then distributed into your home. The fan is usually located inside the unit on the bottom. This controls the coolant temperature and the compressor. The wiring on the HVAC system runs from your electrical panel to the unit.
Where to Begin
First, you should check and clean the filters. A dirty filter will reduce airflow and cause the unit to work harder to cool your home. Change the filter once a month during the summer and once a season during the other months. You can find the filter in the central part of the unit. The technician will have to remove the front panel that covers the coil to access it.
If you want your system to last, you will want to clean the coils with a brush and vacuum regularly. If you need further assistance, contact the air conditioning services.
Turn on your system. Turn the thermostat to the coldest setting. Outdoor temperature sensors are usually located near the fan. Turn them on. Take a damp cloth and wipe down the cover. While cleaning, check for any leaks—repair small leaks with a caulk gun. Flush out the drain lines and inspect and replace any cracked hoses.
How Often Should You Do it?
Here are the recommended times:
Every six months: Check the installation, inspect the wires, and examine the electrical wiring.
Check the installation, inspect the wires, and examine the electrical wiring. Every 18 months: Change the air filters, and check the coils, compressor, fan, and capacitor.
Change the air filters, and check the coils, compressor, fan, and capacitor. Every three years: Flush out your drain line and check the refrigerant level (5.5 pounds). The refrigerant level should be checked yearly.
Conclusion
If you want your HVAC system to last, you should have it inspected and maintained by professionals. You must follow manufacturer instructions for maintenance.
It is essential to keep your HVAC system working efficiently. A well-maintained HVAC system can save you 40% or more on your winter energy costs. However, if your system is old, a complete replacement may be energy-cost efficient.
If you are looking for reliable home AC services, we can help you. AutumnAir is a family-owned company that provides HVAC and AC repair and replacement. We also offer residential and commercial electrical services. Contact us today to learn more and get started!