Nobody wants an HVAC breakdown. But what can you do to prevent it from happening? Hear from the pros …
Whether we’re talking about your furnace or your air conditioner, both of these pieces of equipment have to work VERY hard (which also explains why they account for half or more of your energy bill)! So, what can you do to ensure they don’t work too hard?
Change your filter
For this tip, it of course doesn’t matter whether we’re talking about heating or cooling! Although you should be changing your air filter every 2 to 3 months year-round, it’s even more important to remember to do so in the dead of winter and the peak of summer. In very cold temperatures, your furnace has to work hard constantly. It circulates and recirculates hot air around your home, putting this air through the filter repeatedly and leaving behind lots of dust and debris. In the summer, humidity is also a factor. You need to change your air filter more often because humid air circulating and recirculating through your home may cause your filter to become moist and even grow bacteria!
Keep your vents open
Again, no matter the season, it’s best to keep your air vents open. When you close your vents off, the air meant for those rooms is still being pushed through your ducts, but it builds up and creates pressure inside the ducts. This puts stress on your HVAC system. It also means that not only should you keep your vents open, but also make sure they’re not blocked by beds, furniture, etc.
Clean debris around your A/C unit
Now, as we’re heading into spring, it’s time to start thinking about your air conditioner when it comes to preventing HVAC breakdowns. A lot of people don’t know how to clean their outside unit, but it’s important that you do so! First, make sure the air conditioner is off. Then, use a vacuum attachment to carefully clean the fins on the condenser. Then, you can use a garden hose sprayer to really get the unit clean! It’s similar to needing to sweep and mop your floor. “Sweeping and mopping” your air conditioner!
Trust your instinct
More than anything, it’s important to go with your gut when it comes to preventing HVAC breakdowns. Is there a funny sound coming from your furnace or your air conditioner? Does your furnace smell like it’s burning, or do you smell a stale smell in your air-conditioned air, indicating mildew? Does your home not seem able to reach the desired temperature? If you sense something’s not right, then, well … you’re probably right!
Schedule a tune-up
The best way to prevent HVAC breakdowns is by letting the pros do things you can’t do, with a seasonal tune-up. Sure, you can keep an eye on your HVAC system, but can you gauge the performance of a fan motor or compressor? Can you check electrical connections? Can you clean interior components? Here at H.A. Sun, we do all of those things during our extensive tune-ups. We’re here to help in Bloomfield Hills this spring! To schedule a tune-up, fill out a form online, or give us a call at (248) 986-1506!
