It’s a tale as old as time–heating and cooling systems are generally out of sight and out of mind until they’re causing clear trouble. Adopting and keeping up with an HVAC maintenance checklist is the best way to avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep a comfy home year-round.
From simple solo tasks to more complex issues, this checklist will break down the essential steps for you and make sure you always feel empowered to make the best next step for your home.
Monthly HVAC Maintenance Tasks
Staying on top of tasks like these every month will help keep your HVAC system in check and avoid bigger problems developing.
- Replace Air Filters: Changing air filters every 30-60 days is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your HVAC system running smoothly.
- Clear Around the Outdoor Unit: It needs space to “breathe.” Check the area around it monthly and remove leaves, grass, and other debris.
- Check the Thermostat Settings: Make sure your thermostat is set correctly and functioning properly. If you notice inconsistent temperatures or a lack of response, it may be time for a recalibration or a replacement.
- Assess Exposed Ductwork: Exposed ductwork can develop cracks or gaps that allow air to escape. Sealing these leaks improves your HVAC system’s efficiency and helps maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home.
Seasonal HVAC Maintenance Tasks
Fall: Prepare for the Heating Season
- Clean Furnace Burners: This will ensure efficiency and check for any signs of rust or cracks.
- Check the Heat Exchanger: Look for any damage to prevent carbon monoxide leaks. If you notice issues, contact a professional for repairs.
- Test Thermostat in Heating Mode: Switch it to heating mode and assess its response. Make sure it adjusts quickly to changes in temperature.
Spring: Get Ready for Cooling Season
- Clean Evaporator and Condenser Coils: Dirt and debris can build up on your coils, reducing efficiency.
- Check Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant can strain the system and reduce cooling power. Have a professional check and top off refrigerant levels as needed.
- Inspect Fans and Belts: Check for signs of wear and replace any parts that are worn out or making unusual noises.
Annual Upkeep and When to Call a Professional
Some tasks require a professional’s expertise to ensure your HVAC system is working safely and efficiently.
- Full Inspection: An HVAC professional should inspect motors, blowers, electrical connections, and thermostats annually. This prevents minor issues from turning into costly repairs.
- Check Refrigerant Levels and Airflow: A technician will ensure refrigerant levels and airflow meet manufacturer specifications to keep your system cooling or heating efficiently.
- Deep Clean Coils and Fans: Professional cleaning of internal components like coils and fans helps maintain energy efficiency and prolongs the life of the system.
If you hear unusual noises, notice uneven temperatures in your home, or see a spike in energy bills, between maintenance steps, it’s time to call an expert ASAP.
How HVAC Maintenance Saves Energy
Regular HVAC care keeps your system running efficiently, which translates to lower energy bills and a reduced environmental footprint.
A well-maintained system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain your desired temperature, using less energy overall. In fact, according to ENERGY STAR, simply replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a fresh one can reduce the energy consumption of a unit by as much as 15%.
For homeowners interested in maximizing energy savings, services like blower door testing can identify areas where your home is losing energy. Combining these services with regular HVAC maintenance ensures your home remains comfortable while reducing energy costs.
Common Problems Prevented and Other Routine Maintenance
Routine HVAC maintenance like an organized checklist can prevent many common issues that might otherwise lead to expensive repairs or replacements. Here’s how regular upkeep helps avoid common problems:
- System Overheating: Airflow blockages from dirty filters or debris around the outdoor unit can cause your system to overheat.
- Refrigerant Leaks: Low refrigerant levels reduce your system’s cooling power and can lead to more serious issues if left unchecked.
- Blocked Airflow: Clogged filters and dirty vents reduce airflow, forcing your system to work harder than necessary.
- Emergency Repairs: Ignoring regular maintenance can lead to unexpected system failures, especially during peak seasons when your HVAC system is working its hardest.
Beyond the HVAC system itself, there are other ways to boost your home’s overall energy efficiency, like:
- Seal Windows and Doors: Gaps around windows and doors let conditioned air escape, which makes your HVAC system work harder to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Improve Attic Insulation: Proper insulation reduces the amount of heat entering or escaping your home.
- Clean Air Vents: Dust and debris can collect in air vents over time, restricting airflow.
For a comprehensive view of your home’s efficiency, consider scheduling a home energy audit. This assessment can help identify areas where energy is being wasted and offer solutions to improve overall performance.
Conclusion
Following this HVAC maintenance checklist will help you keep your system running efficiently and reliably year-round.
From easy monthly tasks to more thorough seasonal checks, regular maintenance ensures your home stays comfortable, your system lasts longer, and your energy bills stay manageable.
When it’s time for professional help, KO Inspections is here to provide expert care, whether for routine inspections, blower door testing, or weatherization services.