With summer just around the corner, now is the time to start thinking about the things you can do around the house to help keep your heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit, or HVAC, at peak performance.
The following summer HVAC maintenance tips will help to ensure your air conditioner will be in top shape this summer. Don’t risk expensive breakdowns and sweltering heat indoors as you wait for help. Instead, be proactive with summer HVAC maintenance and limit your risk of malfunctions and discomfort.
Here are eight ways to ensure that your HVAC will be ready to take on the summer:
Maintaining the Outdoor Unit
1) Focus on the Filter
Depending on your system, you may need to use a disposable type filter or a more permanent one. It is essential to replace your disposable filter at least once a month. Other types of filters need to be thoroughly cleaned roughly once a month in order to keep things working effectively. If you have pets or a smoker in the home, replace your filters more frequently.
2) Keep Outdoor Areas Clear
You want to make sure the area surrounding your HVAC system is clean and free from debris. If there are any plants, branches, or other items that are blocking the area or touching your air conditioner, clear it away. Be sure not to grow any shrubbery too close to the unit.
A good rule of thumb is to have an open space of around two feet surrounding your HVAC unit to avoid debris getting inside of the machine in the first place.
TURN THE POWER OFF to Your HVAC System for these following HVAC Maintenance Tips
3) Inspect the Unit Panels
Outdoor units are enclosed in panels that protect their electrical components from the elements. Check every side of the unit to ensure that panels are intact. If panels are missing or misaligned, possibly due to a storm, you could reattach or realign the panel if it is a simple fix. If electrical components are exposed, you should contact a field technician at Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning. Avoid starting your system again until the unit is fully enclosed.
4) Repair or Replace Pipe Insulation
Check the conduit pipe that runs between your outside unit and its inside counterpart. When this pipe is properly insulated, it will maximize your energy efficiency while also saving you money.
If insulation is thin or disintegrated, you can repair or replace it with a layer of fiberglass, foam rubber, or polyethylene foam.
Maintaining the Indoor Unit
5) Clean the Evaporator Coil
Locate and open the door to your unit’s evaporator coil, removing any screws or bolts as necessary. With a soft brush, remove any dust that is present and then spray the coil with a commercial coil cleaner. Next, clean the drain pan with a mixture of soap, hot water, and a little bit of bleach. Then, pour a mixture of half a cup of bleach with a half a cup of water down the drain. When you’re done, replace and seal the door.
Read our Blog Article on “Coil Cleaning”
6) Check the Drainage Line
Algae and mold can build up within your drainage line, causing it to either flow slowly or stop flowing altogether. In order to address this, locate your drainage hose, which is usually a one-inch PVC pipe, and follow it to the end where it trains. In some instances, the line will drain outside near your other unit. However, most will end at a utility sink or floor drain in your basement. Once you’ve located the end of the drain line, attach a vacuum hose to the opening. Finally, run the vacuum for a few minutes to clear away any potential mold or algae buildup inside.
7) Change the Air Filters
Just like your outside unit, your blower and furnace require air filters to be replaced on a regular basis. It’s recommended that you follow the same steps as you did before while still paying special attention to the type of filter you use and your manufacturer’s guidelines.
8) Test the Unit
Now it’s time to start up your system to check to see if it cools your home adequately. Is your unit running smoothly? Does the temperature in your home reach the degree you want it to? Does the temperature in your home change in a reasonable amount of time?
Look to Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning for Servicing Your HVAC
Our experienced team of highly trained technicians will work with you and exceed your expectations during HVAC service and repairs. Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning is committed to delivering premium quality HVAC service, maintenance, products, and documentation.
Contact your premier source for heating and air conditioning in the Tri-Cities, Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning, at (509) 396-COLD (2653) or schedule a service for your HVAC system!
