The Four Seasons Guide to Maintaining Your HVAC System

What's on your to-do list today... cleaning, doing laundry or mowing the lawn? Most of those common to-do list items are fairly easy to cross off. But what about those pesky home maintenance items that tend to get put off or even ignored all together? For instance, you know you need to trim the trees overhanging your roof but it's not until you've got a super highway for ants going up the tree and into your home that you finally trim back those branches. Or even worse - a heavy branch falls onto your roof causing damage that needs to be attended to immediately. It's all too easy to let home maintenance tasks slide, especially when it's something that only needs doing a few times a year. Your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is the same way. You don't really think about it until you need it, but neglecting maintenance can mean having your AC go out right as temperatures heat up or your heater going out right as the first frost hits. The following guide will help make sure your HVAC system is ready to go, year round.

Autumn

Now is the time to start thinking about your heating system. The first thing you should do is change your air filter. While some experts recommend changing your filter once a month, there are many mitigating factors such as humidity, type of filter used and the climate you live in. However, if you can't remember the last time you changed your filter, chances are you could use a new one. Autumn is also a great time to schedule a maintenance appointment with an HVAC company such as AC and heating Louisville. They can make sure everything is in tip top shape so when the cold weather hits, your heater is ready.

Winter

Assuming you've already had your system inspected and maintenanced, you should be in good shape for the winter months. However, it's still important to do a visual inspection of your system. If it's been a couple months or more since you changed your air filter, take a look at it and see if it's dirty or clogged and if so, replace it. You should also take a look at your HVAC system. Look for things that are out of place or "wrong," such as dusty coils or corroded wiring. Often rodents can make a major project out of HVAC systems so be sure to look for any damage. If you see something amiss, be sure to call your HVAC company.

Spring

Now is the time to start thinking about air conditioning again. Check the outside of your system, clearing away any debris or clutter that's accumulated over the winter. Also give the outside coils a good cleaning. If you haven't turned your system on in a while, go ahead and do so. (And of course, don't forget to check that air filter!) Spring is a good time to consider buying a programmable thermostat, if you don't already have one. It's also an ideal time to schedule regular maintenance and inspection with your HVAC company since the summer months tend to be busier.

Summer

Check energy efficiency. Speak with your HVAC company and make sure you've got the right sized and most energy-efficient HVAC system for your home. Older systems are usually much more expensive to run and tend not to work as well as newer models. With a new HVAC system installed, not only will your home feel more comfortable but you will save money on your monthly energy bill.

About the Author: Thomas M. Bird is an HVAC specialist and contributing author who enjoys helping homeowners stay comfortable and save money on their energy bills.

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