5 Ways to Maintain Your HVAC System This Fall

Whether you’re at home or running your business, your HVAC system represents a significant investment as well as a major and essential convenience. All property owners need to understand the basic functions of their HVAC systems, so they can recognize potential problems and properly conduct basic maintenance. You should also know when to call a technician for professional inspections and maintenance to keep your system in excellent condition.

1. Clean Vents and Change Filters

Vents are the perfect place for dust, hair and other debris to get trapped and accumulate throughout the day. Once in a while, take the time to pull the vent out and vacuum the area directly inside. It’s a good idea to add filter changes to your schedule and make them a priority throughout the year. Failing to change air filters is one of the most common causes of HVAC problems, and it can lead to expensive repairs.

2. Clear Around the Condenser

Central air conditioning units rely on an external condenser that is usually set on a cement base near the foundation of the building. Mini-split systems have an outdoor unit that performs a similar function, although there are some important differences. In either case, it’s important to keep plant growth, debris and obstructions away from these units because they need good air circulation to work efficiently.

3. Lubricate Moving Parts

Lubrication is an often-neglected maintenance task in many systems, and HVAC is no exception. The fans that propel the conditioned air throughout the system should be lubricated on a regular basis to prolong their lifespan and ensure energy efficiency. Talk to an HVAC technician about other lubrication needs that are specific to your system.

4. Check Drainage Lines

The drainage infrastructure depends on the type of air conditioning unit and the nature of the specific installation. That’s why it’s usually best left to professional technicians who can inspect it properly. At a minimum, you need to ensure that drainage lines are clear, firmly connected and not leaking.

5. Schedule Professional System Tests

An hour of professional inspection can save many hours of future inconvenience or repairs. Every HVAC system should be inspected and maintained by a licensed professional at least every year or two. This includes essential tasks like cleaning the fuel injection components in the furnace and monitoring refrigerant levels in the AC system.

Contact our experienced team at Crocker Refrigeration Heating and Air for help with all your air conditioning and heating needs in Santa Barbara, CA. We’d be happy to share more ideas about how to maintain your HVAC system throughout the year.