The Ultimate HVAC Maintenance Checklist
Knowing what to do when it comes time for HVAC maintenance is as simple as having a checklist of items. This allows a person to check off the items and ensures that he or she will not miss any simple fixes that could result in severe problems down the line. An HVAC maintenance checklist details what specifically needs to be done and gives homeowners a guideline to follow when servicing a unit.
Things to Check
Check the thermostat settings to make sure the system will keep a home or building cool or warm, depending on the season. Set the thermostat to an energy-saving temperature when the house is empty to keep utility costs lower. Inspect the condensate drain to make sure there are no blocks or leaks, which could cause water damage in a home or affect the air humidity levels. Run a check on all the system controls to be sure everything is properly operating, starting up, and shutting off.
Home Checks
Make sure that windows and doors are free of any drafts and leaks, which will require an HVAC unit to work harder to keep a home cool or warm. Seal any leaks with caulk or block drafty doors with a rolled up towel or blanket. Shut any doors to rooms not being used, and turn the heat zones down in low-traffic areas such as the attic or basement.
Cooling Unit Checks
Clean the evaporator and condenser coils when performing maintenance on a system. Dirty or damaged coils reduce the ability of an HVAC system to cool a home, and can cause the machine to work harder. This results in more money spent on energy costs and repairs. Adjust the refrigerant levels as necessary to be sure it has a sufficient amount to work properly. Clean and adjust any blower components for the best quality airflow, as problems with the airflow can reduce a system’s output ability by almost 15%.
Heating Unit Checks
Check all the connections for gas or oil, depending on what a unit runs on. Check the gas pressure on a regular basis to be sure it is not too high or too low, and observe the burner combustion and heat exchanger. Problems or issues with any of these components cannot only result in less efficiency, but can be a fire hazard. For safety purposes all heating components should be checked on a regular basis or any time there is a suspected problem.
Other Important Checks
Lubricate all the moving parts of an HVAC system, such as bearings, fans and belts. Be sure all these components are properly installed to prevent dirt from getting lodged between them and to prevent friction from creating wear and tear. Change or clean the air filters on a monthly basis to prevent a decrease in the air quality and an increase in overall energy costs.
The proper maintenance of an HVAC system will result in years of use and comfort as it heats and cools a home. Following this HVAC maintenance checklist alone can save additional money, but be sure to call a professional any time a major problem arises.