An HVAC system is a must-have for anyone in the Midwest or the northeast – well, it is virtually necessary for any place, for that matter! But, of course, if your HVAC system is only a few years old – say, one or two years – you’re still good, and it may already have a maintenance plan that will keep it running for a few years more.
But just like any regular appliance, keeping your HVAC system in good working condition is essential, and you can only do this with regular maintenance and check-ups. This is especially true if it’s nearing its 10-year (give or take five more years) lifespan – and if you want to get the most out of your system, maintenance is crucial. But how can you check? Here’s your complete guide to maintaining your HVAC system and keeping it in optimum condition.
Table of contents
1. Do maintenance checks per season.
The best thing you can do for your system is to have it checked twice a year by a qualified professional. Ideally, it would help if you had it checked and maintained once in the spring or summer and another at the beginning of the fall or winter season, as a furnace repair in Aurora IL specialist like McNally explain. It would be a great time to check your system because the seasons are just starting, so it’s not too cold (or hot) yet.
It also depends on the kind of plan you will choose for maintenance, as they can vary. For example, the maintenance plan can change depending on your system’s age, your system’s condition, size, brand, and factors like how much you use it and how often. It may also depend on where you are located – so your best bet is to talk to a specialist in your area and ask for whatever maintenance packages they have.
2. Know what’s on the list based on the season
Different seasons have different checklists – of course, the maintenance needs of your system will vary or change according to the season.
For the spring and summer
For the spring and summer, you need to replace all the system’s filters, and you also need to clean the condensers and coils, as well as clean the drains and clean out the clogs and blockages, so there is a good flow throughout your system. Also, you must check the belts and pulleys (and replace them when needed) and remove any water from the pans on the drains to prevent overflowing.
In the spring or summer, it’s also essential to inspect all the ducts for any buildup of debris, mold, or dust, inspect the refrigerant for any leaks, and check the controls of the thermostats. During this time, it is also important to lubricate moving components and ensure all the connections are working correctly.
For the fall and winter
During the fall and winter, make it a point to replace the filters once every 30 days and inspect the ignition burner and heat exchanger (or any heating element). You should also check the flue and make sure it is correctly attached. The specialist will check for leaks and pressure if you have a furnace running on gas. As in the spring or summer, replace any worn or frayed pulleys or belts and check the controls, thermostats, and heat pump.