Updated September 2023
One of the benefits of renting a home is that you don’t need to handle the maintenance or repairs. If you have a problem with your HVAC system, your landlord handles it. The same is true of regular maintenance – there’s no burden on your shoulders. For that reason, most new homeowners have no idea how to handle their Moore HVAC maintenance.
1. Change Out the Air Filter
This tip is first on this list for a reason. In addition to being one of the most important parts of maintaining your HVAC, changing out your filters is also one of the easiest. After a few months of use, your filter accumulates dirt and debris. If you don’t clean out the filter, your HVAC in Moore, OK needs to work hard to push air through the system. This pushes your HVAC to the max and increases the likelihood of it breaking down. In turn, this shortens its lifespan. Failing to clean your filters also causes your HVAC to increase its energy use, which raises your monthly bills. To keep your system functioning the way it should, you need to change out the filter once every two or three months. You should use your own discretion with this, as some homes are dustier than others.
2. Remove Dust and Vegetation
The exterior unit of your HVAC takes some abuse during the year. Every season, new threats could put your HVAC system in danger. Dust, branches, and leaves all have the potential to infiltrate your system. As debris accumulates in the exterior unit, there’s a risk of your system breaking down. Every so often, walk outside and examine your exterior condenser unit. Check for dust, leaves, and branches. If you have vegetation growing too close to the unit, cut down the greenery to prevent future complications.
3. Open the Air Vents
If you don’t want a room in your home to be cooled or heated, you might close the air vents. But this won’t do you any favors. It won’t prevent your HVAC system from trying to heat or cool that room, and it will end up making your system work hard. Keeping some of your air vents closed makes your HVAC system less efficient. As your system struggles to push air through the closed vents, pressure in the system increases. This increases the chance of a duct leak, which is a costly repair.
4. Have an Optimal Temperature
If you constantly change your thermostat, your HVAC system will always be climbing uphill. Rather than constantly adjusting your thermostat, set an optimal temperature. Try to pick a temperature that’s comfortable but also energy-efficient. One way to help you set the best temperature is to install a smart thermostat. When you have a new thermostat, you can have it learn your patterns and determine the best temperature settings.
5. Seal Up Drafty Areas
Drafts can cause your HVAC system to work much harder than it needs to. In an effort to maximize the life of your HVAC and reduce the need for repairs, you can seal up your home. Use weather stripping on the door and caulk up gaps around your window. If you seal up your home, you can make it easier for your HVAC to heat and cool your home. As an added benefit, you will save money on your energy bills.
6. Have Your Ducts Cleaned
If you’ve never owned your own home, you probably don’t realize the importance of regular duct cleaning. It’s not something you need to do frequently, but it is an action you need to take once every three to five years. Unfortunately, duct cleaning isn’t a DIY job. A professional can check for leaks in your ducts and ensure there are no particles clogging up the system. If you fail to clean your ducts, your system will be inefficient and prone to needing repairs.
7. Clean the Condensate Drain
The condensate drain line is an essential part of your HVAC system but is often ignored. If there’s a clog in the line, your HVAC system could completely fail. You can keep your HVAC in working order by cleaning your condensate drain line. Fortunately, this is an easy job. Simply detach the line and pour about a cup of bleach into it. As the bleach works its way through your system, it removes sediment and algae. Then, the water can flow through without any blockages.
8. Clean Your Evaporator Coils
Regardless of the type of HVAC unit you have, it has coils that require regular cleaning. If you have dirty coils, you can’t expect your system to work well. And while you can clean the coils on your own, doing so comes with a risk. The coils are sensitive and break with ease. If you plan on cleaning the coils yourself, read the instructions several times. Handle the coils with a delicate touch, or you could be left with hundreds of dollars in repairs. You might want to work with a professional to schedule a cleaning coil.
9. Check Your Furnace Flame
If you have a gas furnace, check the flame. Is the color a bold blue, or is it yellow? A yellow or orange flame is a sign of trouble. If your flame is anything but blue, your furnace needs repair or maintenance.
10. Call a Moore HVAC Specialist
On your own, you can do some HVAC maintenance. But you don’t have the tools or experience needed to handle all of the maintenance. If you’re a new homeowner, it’s crucial to work with an experienced HVAC technician. As soon as you move into your new home, start looking for a reputable HVAC company. The first thing you should do is sign up for a maintenance plan. When your technician comes out, they can search for problems and give your system some much-needed TLC. If you’re new to owning a home and caring for a Moore HVAC, call us at Home Comfort Solutions. We’re ready to inspect your system and give it the attention needed to keep it in working order season after season.
