June is a special month for homeowners across the United States—it’s National Homeownership Month. It’s a time to celebrate all the joys and responsibilities of owning a house. As we revel in the pride of homeownership, it’s also essential to remember the importance of maintaining our homes, ensuring they remain safe, comfortable, and efficient for years to come. One crucial aspect of home maintenance often overlooked is the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system.
Your HVAC system is the unsung hero of your home, keeping you warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and ensuring clean air circulates throughout. Neglecting its maintenance can cause a lot of problems for your unit, like costly repairs and reduced efficiency. To help you keep your HVAC system running smoothly, here are seven easy maintenance tips every homeowner should follow:
1. Regularly Replace Air Filters
Clogged air filters restrict airflow, making your HVAC system work harder and consuming more energy. According to Energy Star, you should replace your filters at a minimum of every 3 months. However, this depends on usage, as those with pets might want to change them every 1-2 months instead. Regularly replacing your HVAC air filters helps maintain optimal performance and indoor air quality.
2. Clean Vents and Registers
Dust and debris can gather and make a home in your vents and registers, hindering airflow and reducing efficiency. We recommend using a vacuum or damp cloth to clean them regularly, ensuring unrestricted airflow throughout your home. But, it’s also a good idea to schedule annual maintenance with a professional who can help take care of this for you.
3. Clear Debris Around Outdoor Unit
Do you have an outdoor AC unit? If so, you should make sure that it’s free from debris like leaves, grass clippings, and branches. Trim vegetation and maintain a clear space of at least two feet around the unit to facilitate proper airflow.
4. Schedule Professional Maintenance
Consider scheduling annual HVAC maintenance with a qualified technician. A professional inspection, like from the team here at Wisler, can help identify potential issues early. Not only can this help prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system, but it can also help prevent costly breakdowns.
5. Inspect and Clean Condensate Drain
Over time, algae and mold can accumulate in the condensate drain, leading to clogs and water damage. Inspect the drain regularly and clean it using a mixture of bleach and water to prevent blockages. This is also something professionals take care of at your annual maintenance.
6. Check Thermostat Settings
Ensure your thermostat is programmed correctly for optimal comfort and energy efficiency. Look into investing in a programmable or smart thermostat to save on energy costs and also to give you the ability to adjust temperatures according to your schedule.
7. Monitor Energy Consumption
Keep a close eye on your energy bills and monitor any unusual spikes in consumption. Increased energy usage could indicate potential issues with your HVAC system, prompting timely repairs or adjustments.
Contact Wisler Plumbing & Air For All Your HVAC Maintenance Tips in Roanoke, VA and the Surrounding Areas
Make sure your HVAC system operates efficiently so you can save money and energy while also maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. At Wisler Plumbing & Air, we can help! We offer professional HVAC maintenance services you can count on. So, as we celebrate National Homeownership Month, let’s not forget the importance of responsible homeownership, which includes taking care of our HVAC systems. After all, a well-maintained home is a happy home!Â
