If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your home’s HVAC system until there’s a problem. And when that happens, it’s usually not a pretty sight. Knowing about troubleshooting HVAC before winter arrives is a very important thing.
Homeowners these days are pretty lucky. In the old days, if your furnace went out, you were pretty much SOL until a heating contractor could come out and take a look at it. But now, thanks to the internet, there’s a whole world of information at your fingertips.
Why Should You Know These Things?
The main reason you should know these things is so that you can save money. HVAC repairs can be pretty pricey, and the last thing you want to do is shell out a bunch of cash for something that could have been fixed with a little elbow grease.
Plus, if you’re handy and know your way around a few tools, you might be able to do some of the repairs yourself. This can save you even more money, and it’s a great way to learn more about your home’s HVAC problems.
Change Your Air Filter Every Month
This is probably the most important thing you can do to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. A dirty or clogged air filter will restrict airflow and make your system work harder than it needs to. Replace air filters to improve your indoor air quality and help you breathe easier. So regular inspections every winter can help increase the efficiency for your HVAC Systems.
Check for Leaks Around Doors and Windowsiliarize Yourself With Efficiency Ratings
One of the biggest causes of energy waste in homes is air leaks. If you have gaps and cracks around doors and windows, chances are your home is losing a lot of heat (or cool air in the summer). These leaks can be easily sealed with caulk or weatherstripping.
Leaks are also a common problem in the ductwork. If you have leaks in your ducts, it’s important to get them sealed as soon as possible. Duct tape is not a long-term solution for duct leaks!
Make Sure Your Vents Are Not Blocked
If you have furniture, rugs, or other objects blocking your vents, your HVAC system won’t be able to do its job properly. Make sure you keep all of your vents clear so that your system can distribute air evenly throughout the house. Having a blocked filter can cause fires. It is pertinent to be aware of fire prevention tips.
It’s quite common for homeowners to forget to check these simple things, but if you take a little time to check the vents, filters, and ductwork in your home, you can avoid some big problems down the road.
Check for Proper Refrigerant Levels
If your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home properly, one of the first things you should check is the refrigerant level. If the refrigerant is low, it could be a sign of a leak. You’ll need to have the system checked by a professional to make sure there are no leaks.
Refrigerant is a gas that is used in air conditioners to help cool the air. If there is too much or too little refrigerant in the system, it can cause problems.
Clean Your Condenser Coils
The condenser coils are responsible for dissipating heat from the refrigerant. If they’re dirty, they won’t be able to do their job properly and your air conditioner will have to work harder to cool your home. You can clean your coils with a garden hose and some dish soap.
Coils are usually located on the outside of the house, near the air conditioner. They will be either black or copper in color, and they will have a lot of fins. Be careful when cleaning them, as they can be easily damaged.
Inspect the Outdoor Unit for Any Debris or Obstructions
Debris and obstructions can cause the outdoor unit to work harder than it should, which can lead to decreased efficiency and increased energy costs. Be sure to clear any leaves or other debris from around the unit and keep it free of any obstructions.
Clean the Inside of Your Unit With a Vacuum or Brush
If you don’t clean the inside of your unit on a regular basis, it can become cluttered with dust and dirt. This can lead to decreased efficiency and increased energy costs. Be sure to clean the inside of your unit at least once a year using a vacuum or brush for better indoor quality.
Tighten All Screws and Bolts on the Unit
Over time, screws and bolts can become loose, which can cause the unit to vibrate and make noise. Be sure to check all of the screws and bolts on your unit and tighten them if they’re loose. If you’re not sure how to do this, you can contact a professional to help you.
Check the Electrical Connections of the HVAC System
The electrical connections on your HVAC unit can become loose over time, which can cause the unit to malfunction. Be sure to check all of the electrical connections on your unit and tighten them if they’re loose.
Check for Water Leaks in the Air Conditioner
Water leaks can cause serious damage to your HVAC unit or air conditioner. If you see any water leaking from your unit, be sure to shut it off immediately and call a professional.
Check the Quality of Air Conditioning
Not all air conditioners are created equal. If you’re not happy with the quality of air in your home, consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient unit. When shopping for a new air conditioner, be sure to look for one with a high SEER rating.
The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measure of how efficient an air conditioner is. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit is. units with a SEER rating of 21 or higher are considered to be highly efficient.
Keep an Eye on Your Energy Bill
If you’re seeing an increase in your energy bill, it may be time to have your HVAC system serviced. A professional can check for any issues that may be causing your system to use more energy than it should.
Call a Professional if You’re Still Having Issues
If you’re still having issues with your HVAC system, it’s best to call a professional. A professional can diagnose and fix any problem that you may be having with your HVAC systems.
Green Street HVAC is a family-owned and operated HVAC company that has been serving the community for many years. We offer services that include AC Repair, Furnace Repair, AC Installations, HVAC Maintenance, Smart home products, Duct Cleaning aeroseal duct cleaning, duck work repair maintenance, commercial HVAC services, heat pumps services, and others. We have 24/365 emergency service, so don’t get in touch with us.