As we come into the winter season you will be changing your HVAC from AC to heat. This is the time we recommend having the HVAC unit serviced to avoid break downs and leaks. Below are some helpful tips of what you can do and what your maintenance company should be doing once or twice a year.
HVAC Company you hire for preventive maintenance (at least once a year) should be addressing.
(Typically April and October as you switch from AC to heat and back.)
Check the electrical and mechanical connections to ensure they are tight –screws and connections loosen from mechanical or thermal stress / during regular system operation; loose connections can short out and cause fires.
Check refrigerant levels using a refrigerant pressure gauge manifold – ensures normal operation for optimal efficiency.
Test the refrigerant oil annually – send an oil sample to a lab to test for acidity, metal or foreign deposits, moisture content, and to determine if bearings are starting to wear out. (Not as common)
Have your HVAC system leak tested on an annual basis with an electronic leak detector– the lower the refrigerant charge the less efficient it runs until it eventually ices up.
Clean the outside and inside coils semi-annually – dirt, dust, and pollen can build up outside; hair, lint, and dead skin can build up inside; dirty coils decrease heat transfer as dirt on the coils acts as an insulator, restricting air flow. This also affects the drainage of the unit and the condensate line.
Grease and lubricate bearings or motors on a quarterly basis – without lubrication friction builds up between the moving parts causing the system to overheat or fail.
Clear the condensate line of clogs and debris with high pressure vacuum or air condenser.
Many contractors offer service contracts that will include a visit in the spring to tune up the air conditioning system and a visit in the fall to prepare the heating system for winter. When you sign a maintenance agreement, you also likely will receive discounts on repairs and the purchase of new equipment.
Items that the Homeowner can check themselves and perform
Check and change filters every two to three months to keep your HVAC system running as designed. More often if you have pets.
Clean up around your outdoor HVAC unit – management walks the roof where the condensers are located once a week to inspect for general maintenance.
Clean out all control cabinets to protect the sensitive electronics – get rid of spider web, bugs, water, snakes (tend to crawl inside in winter). Try to keep your HVAC closet clear of storing any items.
Install programmable thermostats for energy savings.
