With seasonal changes around the corner, there’s a lot to prepare. Many people in Dracut, MA, see the changing season as an opportunity to take time out and clean their homes so that they are ready to welcome the season in true spirit. While you’re doing so, don’t forget to add HVAC maintenance and cleaning to your to-do list.
HVAC maintenance is not about making sure the equipment is fine but checking if it is heating, ventilation, and air conditioning at full efficiency or not. It is not the kind of maintenance of HVAC that occurs due to malfunction or breakdown, but it is preventative maintenance that can save you money, energy, and time.
So, when you get ready for the change in season by organizing the right wardrobe and bedding, it is a great chance to have HVAC maintenance so that you can relax for the rest of the season without worrying that your system may break down.
Although there are many HVAC contractors in Dracut, MA, who can help us with the services, there are some components in HVAC systems that homeowners can check on their own so that they don’t even have to get anyone on board. As soon as we invest in HVAC systems, it is important to commit to its need for maintenance as an owner to ensure we use it at full capacity and efficiently use our investment.
Below is the checklist that will help you ensure that all the ticks on each component contribute toward a well-maintained HVAC system.
- Have you changed your Air Filters?
The most important and common task is to ensure you check your air filter. With time, air filters are clogged with dirt and dust. Due to this, HVAC units have to work much harder and take more load to pull through the air. Even air quality is compromised, which also impacts the health and well-being of people living in the house. Most HVAC contractors recommend changing air filters every 1-3 months, depending on the situation in Dracut, MA.
- Have you cleaned the Outdoor Unit?
It is equally important to clean your outdoor unit as it is important to change air filters. If something is obstructing the airflow, then it means that grass, leaves, debris, and dirt have accumulated around the unit and are not interfering with the airflow. Although it is likely to hamper the performance of HVAC systems, it also increases the utility bill when the system starts consuming more energy than it should. You can clean the condenser using a water hose to spray off any debris because the condenser is the key element of HVAC systems. Another tip is to ensure no vegetation around the HVAC unit, use coil cleaner, trim branches, and wash the exterior.
- Did you clean your Vents?
Unsurprisingly, your vents and ducts can also get dirty over time. If your vent grills are covered in dirt, it will impact indoor air quality and create health issues for your family. The overall comfort of your home depends on keeping the HVAC system and its vent and ducts clean. You can easily clean the dirt with a brush attachment of the vacuum and wipe it up with a damp cloth. However, flues and chimneys are prone to certain damages, so if you’re using soap and water to clean them up, you must be very careful. If there’s a lot of dust, then it is advised that you hire HVAC Contractors in Dracut, MA, for such services.
- Did you seal windows and doors?
If the windows and doors are not properly covered or sealed, it will let the outside air in, eventually lowering your HVAC system’s performance. Although the HVAC system will work much harder to perform, it will not be of much use; in fact, it will lead to higher energy consumption. You can ensure no air slips through the windows and doors with simple measures. Warm air will not make its way inside when windows are covered with curtains, and there’s less exposure to sunlight. Similarly, when doors are sealed, it will ensure the HVAC system’s performance is at par.
- Did you schedule preventative HVAC maintenance?
Then some things need professional attention. As the last step, it is recommended to schedule HVAC maintenance if you don’t find your system is working in order. If there’s a need for an upgrade or replacement, contact Home Service Doctors in Dracut, MA, who can inspect and help detect the problem. While it will ensure the HVAC system is running smoothly, it will also avoid breakdowns in the future.