With summer nearly here, it’s important to inspect your HVAC unit to ensure it’s ready for the new season. To help you out, the pros at Roman Electric have prepared a list of DIY maintenance tips for your trusty HVAC unit!
1. Change Your Air Filter
You have probably heard this one before, but that’s because it’s so important. Changing your HVAC unit’s air filter is one of the easiest and quickest ways you can ensure proper maintenance for your system. All you must do is get the right size filter (be sure to compare it to the one you have so you get the right one), put it in place of the old one, and viola, you have a clean air filter! It takes a few minutes and can drastically improve indoor air quality, put less pressure on your unit and reduce energy consumption by 5 to 15%.
2. Clean Your Registers
Dust build-up on your vents and registers is common but can increase dust particles in your indoor air. It can also lead to dust particles making their way into your ductwork, worsening your indoor air quality and the performance of your unit. Before the new season arrives, do a quick clean up your registers. Remove the grille and vacuum it as well as the vent opening with an extendable brush attachment. Follow that up with a quick wipe from a damp cloth to ensure proper dust removal.
3. Clear Up Your Condenser
The outdoor condenser is an important part of your HVAC unit because it contains your unit’s compressor and condenser coils. That’s why it’s important to keep it in top-notch condition. If you want to take the DIY route, start by carefully trimming the vegetation around the condenser—be sure to maintain a clearance of 2ft around the outdoor unit. Then, use the brush attachment on your vacuum and remove any dust, dirt or debris stuck on the condenser. If you want a more thorough cleaning, apply coil cleaner on the condenser and rinse it off gently—don’t bend the fins or the exterior of the condenser.
4. Seal up Your Home
Inspect the edges of your windows and doors and ensure they are sealed properly. If the weatherstripping, which is the sealing material underneath or around your doors and windows, is worn-out, you will need to replace it. If you ignore it, you will develop air leaks which can increase your energy bill, worsen indoor air quality and force your unit to work harder to provide the cooling you need. For new weatherstripping materials, simply check out your nearest home improvement store. There are various materials you can use such as vinyl, foam and even metal!
Want more maintenance tips for your HVAC unit? Contact the pros at Roman Electric! Whether you need repair, maintenance, installation services or you simply have questions about our business, our team of professionals would be more than happy to assist you! Call us today at 414-369-3798 or schedule a service online!
