An HVAC system is one of the most essential parts of home comfort. The system regulates temperatures and ensures your family is safe, cozy, and happy. To keep your HVAC working properly for as long as possible, there are a few simple maintenance steps you can take. These steps can be completed easily once a month in just a short amount of time. Take a quick look at these tips to help your HVAC keep your home comfortable for years to come.

Step One: Prune Around The Outdoor Unit

Your condenser lives outside. It usually doesn’t require too much maintenance, but there are things you should watch out for. To improve the quality and lifespan of your condenser, pay attention to your landscaping.

Plants and shrubs should be 2-3 feet away from the condenser. It’s also important to check for any loose debris that might grow too close. Trees are great for shade, but those hanging too low can become a problem. Branches should be 6-8 feet above your condenser.

If you see shrubs or branches encroaching on your condenser, it’s time to prune them back. It’s a good idea to check your condenser after strong storms as well, to make sure that no debris from overhead has fallen on it.

Step Two: Check The Refrigerant Lines

While you’re outside with your condenser, take a moment to look at the refrigerant lines. These lines transport refrigerant from your outdoor condenser to your indoor air conditioner and they should be insulated.

The insulation protects the lines from condensation build up and potential water damage. A simple visual inspection will let you know if the lines are in good condition or if they need repair in order to keep your HVAC system functioning.

Step Three: Examine The Air Filter

One of the best things you can do for your HVAC system is to routinely check the air filter. Any air that circulates through your home must first pass through the air filter. When it does, the filter removes dust, pollen, dander, and other pollutants, making your air clean to breathe.

Your air filter should be changed frequently, usually once a month depending on the filter and your home air quality. For example, if you live in a home with pets that may cause dander that can irritate allergies, you may benefit from checking your filter more often.

Step Four: If Necessary, Replace The Batteries

We don’t often think of our thermostat as needing much maintenance, and usually we’re correct! Smart thermostats can be programmed to do pretty much everything they need to in one short set up and then left alone.

However, thermostats do have batteries and they can run out. It’s a good idea to add checking on your thermostat to your monthly maintenance. This is also a good time to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Step Five: Check Air Quality And Pollutant Levels

The air inside your home is what you breathe regularly, so it’s important to ensure that it is clean. You can do this by having a carbon monoxide detector installed, paying attention to any signs of mold (such as musty smells or standing water), and you can even purchase an indoor air quality monitor that can help report pollutants in the air.

Taking these 5 simple steps to keep your HVAC system well maintained will help keep your home comfortable, but it isn’t a replacement for professional repairs. If your HVAC isn’t performing as it should, or if you haven’t had professional maintenance completed this year, call AirOne Heating and Air Conditioning, a San Marcos HVAC company, to schedule an appointment today.

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