HVAC systems are fundamental for ensuring your comfort at home. Neglecting to maintain your heating and cooling systems can lead to costly repairs and sacrifice your quality of life.

Practicing proper HVAC maintenance tasks year-round is the best way to keep your system performing at its peak and maintain indoor air quality.

In this brief guide, we’ll cover some essential steps every homeowner should take to keep their HVAC system running reliably, efficiently and comfortably.

Table of Contents

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Replace Air Filters

One of the simplest, yet most effective, ways to maintain your HVAC system is to replace the air filters regularly.

HVAC air filter in ceiling vent being replaced in home

Clean air filters are key for optimal air quality and ensure that dust, pollen, and other contaminants do not circulate through your home. Ideally, you should replace air filters every one to three months. How often you replace your filters depends on several factors:

  • Type of filter (e.g. high-efficiency filters can last longer)
  • Size of your home
  • Indoor air quality
  • Number of pets
  • Dust buildup on filters
  • Reduced airflow

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Check for Duct Leaks

Leaky ducts can severely impact the efficiency of your HVAC system. They allow conditioned air to escape before it reaches your living spaces, causing your system to work harder than necessary.

Here are a few prominent signs that your home’s air ducts may be leaking:

  • Higher-than-expected utility bills
  • Temperature fluctuations between adjacent rooms
  • Loud whistling or whooshing sounds when your HVAC system is running
  • Cold spots on drywall
  • Low air flow coming out of your vents

Repairing these leaks will improve your system’s efficiency and lower your home energy bill. If you’re unsure about how to do this, consider hiring a professional to assess your ductwork.

HVAC service professional conducting a duct leakage test inside home

An HVAC service professional conducting a duct leakage test inside home

 

Inspect Refrigerant Levels

The refrigerant in your HVAC system is essential for cooling and heating your home.

HVAC service professional checking refrigerant levels outside house

Low refrigerant levels can indicate a leak, which you will need to address immediately.

If your system is low on refrigerant, it won’t work efficiently, leading to higher energy bills and inadequate cooling or heating. Regularly checking and maintaining proper refrigerant levels will ensure that your HVAC system operates at its best.

 

Clean Outdoor Unit

Your HVAC system’s outdoor unit can become clogged with dirt, leaves, and other debris.

Cleaned HVAC air condenser outside home

This can obstruct airflow and reduce the efficiency of your system. Sweeping this debris away and gently washing the coils with a garden hose helps maintain optimal performance and longevity of the system.

 

Check Thermostat Functionality

A properly functioning thermostat is vital for maintaining the desired temperature in your home.

Setting modern digital thermostat inside home

Ensure your thermostat is working correctly and set to the appropriate settings. If you have an older thermostat, it might be time to upgrade your HVAC system with a smart thermostat that can offer better control and energy savings.

 

Schedule Professional Maintenance

While there are many tasks you can handle yourself, scheduling professional maintenance at least once a year is essential.

HVAC service repair professional inside home

A qualified technician can perform a thorough inspection, tune-up, and replace any vital broken components. They are especially best qualified to clean your air ducts to remove allergens and potentially improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Professional HVAC duct cleaning service

HVAC technicians are also highly qualified to answer any specific questions you have about your home’s ducts, vents, or external units.

 

Closing Comments

Taking these simple steps can significantly improve the efficiency and lifespan of your HVAC system. Regular maintenance not only ensures a comfortable living environment but can also save you money in the long run. If you’re ready to take your HVAC maintenance to the next level, consider scheduling a professional service to ensure your system is in top shape.

 

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