Keeping your home comfortable in Florida depends heavily on whether you have a reliable HVAC setup. If you skip regular tune-ups, you greatly increase the risk of repairs and breakdowns.
There are several parts of HVAC maintenance that you can do yourself. However, certain steps require professional service. This guide walks you through what is safe to do on your own and which tasks need a skilled technician.
Change the Air Filter Regularly
One of the easiest ways to help your HVAC perform better is to keep the filter regularly changed. In Florida, because of the high humidity, this typically means doing a filter replacement once every 30 days. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing the system to work harder to overcome the air resistance. Setting a reminder to keep the filter changed will simplify staying on top of this necessary maintenance step. When doing the replacement, make sure to use a compatible filter. If you don’t, it can make indoor air quality worse and potentially damage the system.
Clean Supply and Return Air Vents
Once every week or two, do a walkthrough of the home to wipe down all of the air vents and supply registers. Built-up dust on these vents hurts indoor air quality as the conditioned air circulates. If you see any debris accumulation down in the vents, you can use a vacuum to remove it. You may want to consider adding vent covers to prevent buildup. With clean, open vents, the whole system will operate more efficiently thanks to improved airflow.
Clear Debris Around Outdoor Unit
Keep all landscaping properly trimmed back so it doesn’t interfere with airflow around the outdoor HVAC equipment. This means maintaining a clearance of at least two to three feet at all times. You’ll also want to cut back branches hanging over the unit to eliminate the risk of fallen-debris damage during storms.
Check Thermostat Settings and Batteries
Next, run the thermostat through a series of tests to check its accuracy and overall performance. Inspect the batteries to make sure they aren’t about to go dead. Many thermostats rely on batteries to power their display screens.
Important thermostat tests include:
- Confirming temperature accuracy
- Testing heating and cooling response
- Verifying proper system cycling
- Checking programmable settings
- Inspecting display and battery status
Inspect Visible Refrigerant Line Insulation
Inspect the insulation on the refrigerant lines for cracks and deterioration. If you see any of these signs, give us a call. We’ll need to replace it. Don’t try to handle it yourself. Working with refrigerant lines is dangerous and requires proper training.
Gently Clean Outdoor Condenser Fins
The outdoor part of the HVAC houses the condenser fins, which often become dirty because of dirt and pollen. This buildup can interfere with heat transfer, leading to reduced efficiency. As part of DIY HVAC maintenance, you can gently rinse the fins with a garden hose. Just be sure to use low pressure because you don’t want to bend the fins.
Listen for Unusual HVAC System Noises
Your HVAC may lightly hum as it runs or make a clicking noise when it starts up. These noises are no cause for concern. Loud rattling, grinding or squeaking are the sounds you need to worry about. If you hear any of them, shut the system off and give us a call. Running the system with loose components, worn bearings or damaged parts can cause serious damage.
Check Drain Line for Visible Clogs
Algae and debris can build up in the drain line, leading to blockages that cause leaks. You may be able to flush the line with vinegar. However, stubborn clogs often require professional service.
When to Book Professional HVAC Maintenance
Your HVAC system needs at least one professional tune-up each year. If you live near the coast, it may benefit from biannual checks because of the increased salt air exposure.
Here are the top warning signs to go ahead and book professional maintenance:
- Unusually high monthly energy bills
- System runs constantly without stopping
- Inconsistent temperatures between rooms
- Thermostat constantly needs adjusting
- AC fails to reach setpoint
- Unusual noises or smells
We usually start the tune-up process by cleaning dirty components, including coils and drain lines. We’ll flush the lines if they have buildup or blockages in them. Next, we test the electrical components and check the refrigerant level. If any of the moving components show signs of friction, we’ll add lubrication to them.
Give Your HVAC System the Care and Maintenance It Deserves
The longer you put off necessary HVAC maintenance, the more energy the system will consume. Your energy bills will go up and your living spaces will become uncomfortable. By scheduling regular tune-ups, you’re giving the equipment the care it needs to last longer and perform better.
Arctic Air Home Services makes it simple to access professional HVAC maintenance in Sarasota. Give us a call today.
