Your HVAC system serves you all year round, so it's important to have it in top working condition. Your HVAC expert may schedule appointments for regular maintenance, but a preventative maintenance checklist of your own will keep the machine working efficiently for years to come.

Proper maintenance can help you lower utility bills, improve system efficiency, reduce emergency repairs, and improve your indoor air quality. Take a look at three maintenance tips to help you increase your HVAC's lifespan.

Inspect Refrigerant Lines Often

Refrigerant pipes run from your HVAC system through to your house. Refrigerant lines are crucial because they help keep things comfortable indoors. So, if these lines get detached, develop leaks, or wear out, your system won't be able to maintain comfortable temperatures in your home.

Common sources of refrigerant pipe leaks include:

  • Lack of enough support for the refrigerant piping
  • Vibration that leads to rubbing with other parts, which leads to constant abrasion
  • Lack of proper piping installations or poorly made braze joints that create breaks in the line
  • Perforation damage from nails or screws when the piping does not have the required nailing plates

Luckily, these issues can be identified early through regular inspections. Ensure you remain proactive to avoid having refrigerant issues catch you by surprise.

Change Air Filters

HVAC air filters can accumulate dirt or other contaminants that lead to clogging over time. The daily buildup of dust or debris and eventual clogging makes your system overwork, leading to other problems with your unit. 

Inspect the air filter at least monthly, and if you notice any dirt buildup, you can clean it with water. However, it is also important to replace the filter if it becomes dirtier than usual. This problem is especially common if you live in a dusty area or have pets. If so, ask your HVAC expert to replace your filter as soon as you suspect any complications.

Remember, you can only wash reusable air filters with soap and water. Unfortunately, some HVAC systems don't use reusable air filters. You'll have to buy a new one if you discover a clogged air filter.

Remove Dust and Debris on Outdoor HVACs

If your unit is installed outside the house, debris and dust will gather on and around it. Grass, dust, or leaves can accumulate if you fail to check your system regularly. As mentioned earlier, the buildup leads to clogging of the air filter. Other components like fans that need full working power will also struggle to maintain efficiency. Also, if grass and nearby vegetation overgrow and cover your unit, your HVAC system will have a hard time doing its job properly.

To prevent system malfunction, remove debris or any overgrowth around your unit. Also, make sure to remove the cut grass from your yard after you mow your lawn. If you need an AC tuneup, reach out to a HVAC contractor in your area. 

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