Regular maintenance of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is crucial to ensure optimal performance and avoid costly breakdowns. However, many maintenance tasks are often neglected, which can lead to significant expenses for homeowners and businesses. At AirGreen, we understand the importance of keeping your HVAC system in top condition, and in this article, we present the seven most common tasks that are often overlooked and could cost you dearly in the long run.
1. Cleaning the Filters: A Simple Yet Crucial Task
Cleaning the filters is undoubtedly one of the most underestimated maintenance tasks by HVAC system owners. However, a dirty filter can reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner or heat pump and cause dust and dirt to accumulate in the air ducts, which affects indoor air quality. Additionally, clogged filters result in higher energy consumption, which increases your electricity bill.
By cleaning or replacing the filters every 1 to 3 months, you prevent premature wear of your equipment and improve its efficiency, which helps you save on energy costs.
2. Inspecting and Cleaning the Coils
The coils in your HVAC system, whether they are cooling or heating coils, are essential components that transfer heat between the air and the refrigerant. If these coils become blocked by debris or dirty, they cannot efficiently transfer heat, reducing the system's efficiency and increasing the risk of breakdowns. Cleaning and inspecting these coils regularly is therefore crucial.
At AirGreen, we recommend having the coils inspected and cleaned at least once a year. This helps maintain system performance while avoiding costly repairs related to corrosion or leaks.
3. Checking the Refrigerant Level
Refrigerant plays a central role in the cooling or heating process of an HVAC system. If the refrigerant level is too low, it can lead to a drop in performance and, in the worst case, damage vital components like the compressor. Many homeowners neglect to check the refrigerant level regularly, thinking it won’t affect system operation.
At AirGreen, we recommend having the refrigerant level checked during every maintenance. If the refrigerant is insufficient, it may indicate a leak, which should be repaired promptly to avoid costly damage.
4. Inspecting the Air Ducts
Air ducts play a key role in distributing warm or cool air throughout your space. Blocked or damaged ducts can cause air loss and a drop in system efficiency. Additionally, leaks in the ducts can significantly increase your heating and cooling costs.
Annual inspections of the air ducts by AirGreen professionals help detect leaks, blockages, or accumulated dirt, preventing additional expenses and ensuring optimal airflow.
5. Checking the Condensate Drain
The condensate drain is essential for draining excess moisture produced by your heat pump or air conditioner. If this drain becomes clogged, moisture can accumulate, leading to mold growth, damage to your walls and floors, and even health problems related to air quality. Moreover, a clogged drain can damage other components of your system.
Regular maintenance of this drain is necessary to avoid flooding or mold issues. At AirGreen, we recommend checking the condensate drain twice a year to prevent these problems.
6. Inspecting the Thermostat and Controls
The thermostat is the element that regulates the temperature of your space by adjusting the operation of your HVAC system. If the thermostat is not functioning properly, you may experience comfort issues as well as excessive energy consumption. An incorrectly calibrated thermostat can also lead to system malfunctions.
We recommend having the thermostat checked at least once a year to ensure that the settings are accurate and that the system responds to commands as expected. This guarantees a comfortable indoor temperature while optimizing energy efficiency.
7. Preventive Maintenance by a Qualified Professional
Finally, the best way to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your HVAC system is to have a qualified professional perform annual preventive maintenance. A qualified technician, such as those at AirGreen, will inspect all the components of the system, identify potential issues, and make necessary repairs before they turn into costly breakdowns.
At AirGreen, we offer annual maintenance contracts that provide a complete inspection and regular upkeep of your HVAC system. By investing in preventive maintenance, you extend the life of your equipment and reduce the risk of unexpected repairs.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance of your HVAC system is essential to ensure optimal comfort, maximum energy efficiency, and avoid costly repairs. By neglecting simple but crucial tasks, you expose your equipment to unnecessary risks. At AirGreen, we recommend following these seven maintenance tasks to ensure the longevity of your system and protect yourself from unexpected expenses.