6 January 2022
 Categories: , Blog

Beyond your usual recommended annual maintenance like checking coolant levels and replacing batteries, there are additional steps you can take to make sure your HVAC system keeps running in top shape. Inspecting and maintaining components that aren't seen very often can help keep energy efficiency high and help you avoid serious electrical issues and even water damage.

Duct Sealing and Insulation

Your duct system is one of the most important components of your HVAC system. Ducts that start to lose their airtight seal can leak plenty of hot or cold air before it gets to your home, causing your air conditioner or furnace to have to run longer and more often. Ducts that are starting to lose their insulation can cause the same effect. Insulation makes sure air stays hot or cold, but when insulation starts to fail, you start losing energy efficiency.

You don't necessarily need to check your ducts once a year with the rest of routine maintenance, but it can help to at least give it a cursory inspection. If much of your ductwork is easily visible via your attic, you can check quickly to see if there are any obvious signs of trouble. You can also get an idea as to how well they're working by keeping track of roughly how long your air conditioner or heater runs and how long it takes to cool or heat your house. If it's starting to run longer or take more time, this could indicate a duct problem.

Electrical Parts Inspection

Making sure your HVAC's electrical systems are in good shape is a good way to prevent your system from suddenly shutting down during periods of heavy use. Apart from having the main components checked, such as your fan motor and capacitors, it also helps to look at your fuses. Fuses can last a long time and are easy to replace, but when they fail, your whole system can shut down until they're replaced, so trying to spot trouble early is a good preventative measure.

To be extra thorough, you can also have the circuit your HVAC system runs on tested. This generally won't be necessary unless you suspect there might be a problem. For example, if your circuit breaker has started tripping more often, if you see any sparks, or if you notice any burning smells, these could indicate serious electrical issues. Electrical failure can not only shut your system down but can also damage expensive components and even your house itself.

Condensate Drain Cleaning

As your HVAC system runs, it pulls moisture out of the air and drains it safely outside your home, which is why you'll often see pipes dripping water when the system is running. If these drains get backed up, this water can back up inside your house and prevent your HVAC system from working and even potentially cause water damage.

You can keep these drains clear in the same way you might other drain pipes. Pouring hot water down the pipes followed by baking soda and vinegar can help remove some stubborn clogs, and wet/dry vacuums can also help clear blockages.

Reach out to a professional who provides HVAC preventative maintenance care to learn more.