American StandardMaintenance on your HVAC System is Vital!
360 Airtech can help you with all your HVAC maintenance needs, check out the maintenance club and let us help you reap the benefits listed below!
- Lower energy bills: according to Energy Star, about 42% of our annual utility bills go toward paying for heating (29%) and cooling (13%). To lower your energy bills, you need to make sure that your HVAC system is running as efficiently as possible. The less energy the system uses, the less money you will have to pay toward the bill.
- Fewer repairs to pay for: an HVAC system that has been well-maintained will need fewer repairs. By having regular maintenance done, HVAC technicians can see what problems might be forming and nip them in the bud. A small fix at the beginning of an issue can prevent a bigger, more expensive repair in the future.
- Longer lifespan: an HVAC system that runs efficiently will save you money, on your bills, and on the cost of a new system. The average lifespan of a system is between 10 and 15 years, but a well-maintained one can last upwards of 20 years. A new system can range anywhere from $5,000 to over $15,000 - depending on the quality and the size of the home it will be installed in. The longer your current HVAC can last, the longer you can go without having to pay for such a big-ticket item. Having maintenance completed by a trained professional each year will extend the lifespan of your HVAC system.
- Air quality: depending on who lives in your home, you may be very aware that air quality is very important. According to the EPA, indoor air can actually be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. Because the HVAC system’s job is to move and filter the air in your home, a well-maintained system is a key to keeping your loved ones healthy and comfortable. Clean air in the home is not just important for people with allergies or breathing issues, it is important for everyone. If a system is not taken care of, it could mean that the air in your home is not as clean as you think.
Spring/Summer DIY Maintenance Checklist
Remove debris and leaves from the outdoor condenser unit
The best way to lengthen the lifespan of your HVAC system is to allow it to move air as efficiently as possible. Any type of clog can reduce efficiency and cause the system to work harder. While the inside part of your air conditioner absorbs heat from the air, the outdoor condenser’s job is to release that heat to the air outside. The outdoor unit can become covered or blocked by leaves and other debris that have fallen and built up over the winter. Take a few minutes to clean the area around it, to ensure that the air can move freely. You can also purchase a cover to place over the condenser unit during the winter. The condenser only runs when the air conditioning is on.
Replace filters
This should be done year-round, about every 3 months or so, depending on the quality of the filter, the people living in the home, and the number of air pollutants in and around the home. Your filter will say how often it should be changed. A clogged filter can cause the air to flow through your home less efficiently, which causes it to use more energy and can reduce the lifespan of the HVAC system. The filter’s job is to catch pollutants, irritants, and other airborne particles so that you and your family are not breathing them in. You should also think about the people in the home - if you have a family member with allergies or breathing issues, a better filter might give them relief. If you live in a home with pets, a smoker, or in an area with lots of seasonal irritants, you may also want to invest in a higher-quality filter.
Remove standing water from drain pans
This will prevent any overflow. When the air conditioning portion of an HVAC system is running, condensation can build up. To prevent this from dripping all over the floor, there is usually a drip pan located below the unit. Generally, natural evaporation will prevent the pan from overflowing. However, sometimes overflow can happen. Protect your floors by removing any standing water from the pan.
While it is important for you to monitor your HVAC system, check for debris, and change the filter, there are a lot more things that need to be checked and maintained. Hiring a certified HVAC technician to maintain your system will be extremely beneficial. They are highly trained, with years of experience that help them to spot upcoming issues, make sure things are running as efficiently as possible, and to see that everything is clean and safe. Most technicians would recommend that you schedule maintenance on your system twice a year - once in the spring before turning on the air conditioning, and once in the fall, before switching to heat. Give us a call today at 360 Air Tech to join our HVAC maintenance club and let us handle your seasonal cleanings!
