How Do I Maintain My HVAC Equipment?

March 30, 2018

As heating and cooling experts, we’ve had the opportunity to install energy efficient HVAC equipment in homes across Alameda, Contra Costa, and Marin counties. One of the most common questions we get from our customers is, “What can I do to keep my HVAC equipment running at its best?”

The key to getting the most from your HVAC investment is continuing maintenance. Here is a brief guide on how you can ensure long life and maximum efficiency of your HVAC equipment.

Schedule Annual Heating & AC Tune-ups

One of the best things you can do for your HVAC equipment is schedule preventive maintenance for both your heating and air conditioning systems. Regular maintenance will keep equipment running efficiently while also minimizing the chance of a breakdown or repair.

We recommend scheduling a heating tune-up in the fall, before the heating season begins, as well as an air conditioning tune-up in the spring, before the cooling season starts. Your HVAC professional will typically do the following during an annual heating or cooling tune-up:

Tighten all electrical connections
Lubricate all moving parts
Check the thermostat settings
Inspect the condensate drain
Verify air flow
Test all safety controls

A service agreement makes scheduling regular HVAC maintenance simple. By enrolling in a service agreement, you’ll get two performance tune-ups per year, plus exclusive discounts on repairs.

Check or Replace HVAC Filters Once a Month

It’s also important to clean or replace HVAC filters regularly between service visits. This simple step in home maintenance will keep air pollutants like bacteria, pollen, pet dander, and dust out of your indoor air and help extend the life of your HVAC equipment.

We recommend checking the air filters in your heating and AC systems once a month and cleaning or replacing them as needed. A filter that is noticeably dirty or impossible to see through needs to be cleaned or replaced. When in doubt about how to change your air filter or about which filter is best for your home, be sure to consult a professional about filter replacement.

Schedule a Repair at the First Sign of Trouble

While these steps will go a long way in ensuring better health of your HVAC equipment, sometimes emergencies do happen. As soon as you notice trouble with your heating or cooling equipment — whether it is constantly running, making loud noises, or making your energy bills skyrocket — be sure to schedule a repair with a professional. A professional will address minor issues before they become larger, more expensive ones.