If you want your HVAC system to last as long as possible, you need to maintain it properly. That means doing things like changing your air filters and ensuring your system is running efficiently.
Performing these tasks annually can help you avoid having to replace your system in a few years. It also saves you money on power bills over time.
Check the Filters
A dirty filter blocks the flow of air in your heating and cooling equipment, which causes it to use more energy than it should. This extra work stresses the equipment’s components and can even damage them.
To keep your system working effectively, change the filter at least every 30 to 90 days. According to Energy Star, a clean filter can increase the life span of your HVAC system and lower your energy bills by up to 20 percent.
Your filter also prevents dust, dander, pollen, and other airborne contaminants from entering the home’s indoor environment and damaging the health of you and your family. If your filters aren’t properly replaced, these particles can cause allergy symptoms, respiratory issues, and other negative effects.
Check the Thermostat
If your HVAC system isn’t working, the first thing you should check is the thermostat. You may be able to resolve the problem by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or by flipping the circuit breaker.
If the thermostat’s display isn’t lighting up, check for a blown fuse or tripped breaker in your electrical panel. If changing the batteries doesn’t solve the issue, you should call in an HVAC professional to inspect the problem and fix it.
Another common cause of inaccurate temperature readings is a thermostat that’s positioned incorrectly in your home. Industry standards recommend that a thermostat should be leveled and positioned away from direct sunlight.
A mechanical thermostat can also have a buildup of dust or dirt on its inside components and wiring, which can interfere with its operation. To fix this, remove the thermostat’s cover and use a soft brush or canned air to clean the interior of the device. If the problem persists, you should consider a replacement.
Check the Condensate Drain
The condensate drain line is an important part of your HVAC system. It’s a line that collects water that drips from your air conditioner and sends it to a drainage pan.
If your condensate drain gets clogged, it can cause serious problems for your AC system and your home. It’s important to get it cleaned and fixed before it causes any damage.
Your condensate drain pan is located directly beneath your evaporator coil or indoor unit. You can often find it covered with a removable access panel.
A clogged drain can lead to issues like mold and mildew growth, which can make your system less efficient.
Turn off your AC at the thermostat and breaker to check the condensation drain. Then, locate the condensation drain and remove the PVC cap. Next, flush the condensate drain with a cup of vinegar. If water pours cleanly from the vent, it’s a sign that the drain line is unclogged.
Check the Compressor
Before you can fix your air conditioner, you need to check it for damage and make sure that the components are working properly. To do this, you need to inspect the wires, capacitor, and compressor itself for any damage or cuts.
Once you have inspected all of these parts, you can begin to troubleshoot your AC unit. To begin, you need to turn off the power supply.
Next, you need to remove the access panel from your air conditioning system so that you can see all of its components. Once you have removed the panel, you can start checking the wires and compressor for any signs of damage.
If you notice any damage to the wires connected to your compressor, then this is likely the cause of your problem. In this case, you will need to use a multimeter to test the terminals for electrical flow.
