Keep Your HVAC System Running Smoothly in Five Easy Steps!

Good morning, Feldkamp Family!

Winter is here; you you know how your HVAC system is doing? Do you even know where your HVAC is located? What if you never knew you had HVAC?

Here's the good news: You've got HVAC. It stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Every home, apartment or office has some version of working HVAC. Without that, the space would simply be uninhabitable (especially during our lovely Ohio winters and humid summers). Just because you don't have central air conditioning doesn't mean you don't have ventilation. It all falls under the same category of "air circulation." If any part of your HVAC system falters you'll know it right away!

Here's the better news: There are some easy maintenance steps you could be taking to insure your HVAC system is working as efficiently as it should. Like the best type of DIY projects for your home, these tips won't take up much of your free time and can be accomplished with very little effort. The goal is not to get caught in the cold without the heat and vice versa.

Step One: Get to Know Your HVAC.

If you don't already, you should get to know your HVAC systems. Often homeowners take HVAC for granted. They know where the thermostat controls are and can see the vents in floor, ceilings or wall, but the exploration and familiarity might end there. Follow the vents. They'll lead to your heating and cooling systems. These are the brains of your HVAC. Knowing how they should be operating will help you instantly recognize when something is wrong.

If you have a central heating and/or air condition unit you should also have a guidebook. Crack it open and give it a read. If you can't find the guidebook, head to the internet. The manufacturer will surely have it available as a download. If your unit is outside, it's a good idea to stroll by it once a week to make sure there is no debris like leaves or grass piled up.

Step Two: Check those Filters!

Depending on the size of your interior vents you might have filters that need upkeep. You should give a quick glance to the filters every month. Simply pop open the vent and check to see that the filter isn't overwhelmed with dust or lint. All your filters should be replaced every 6 months. A good way to remember is to make the switch when you set your clocks forward or backwards. You know, the same time you're supposed to be swapping out your smoke alarm batteries. You can find replacement filters are most hardware stores and even places like Target and Wal-Mart.

Step Three: Look for Mold.

Any area of your HVAC system that creates moisture can also become a breeding ground for mold. Don't panic! A solution of half bleach and half water will wipe out the mold before it takes hold. Additionally, you should give any evaporator coils a wipe down at least once a month or if you happen to see spots forming. Any standing water should be wiped up as quickly as possible. This means checking after rain and snowstorms. As the yard dries, so should your HVAC unit.

Step Four: Check the Fans.

Your HVAC system will have fans as part of its operating process. Fans are the perfect collector of dust and grime. These should be wiped down often to avoid any of those particulates being circulated back into your ventilation system. These are the kinds of simple clean-up chores that should be added to your normal cleaning routines.

Finally: Bring in the Pros!

As dedicated as you might be to the DIY process, there are some things that should be left to the professionals. Every 2 years you should bring in a certified HVAC technician to give your entire system the "once over". They'll be able to take it apart for a thorough cleaning and recommend any replacement parts. This will ensure your HVAC unit will live up to its warranty.

Following these simple maintenance tips should have your HVAC humming all year long.

If you believe that you may be overdue for a professional visit, call our 24-Hour Service Team today for a free estimate. We won't leave you out in the cold!

 

From all of us at Feldkamp Enterprises, Inc., holiday wishes of happiness, warmth and safety for you and your loved ones.