Monthly Do-It-Yourself Maintenance for Your HVAC

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, heating and air conditioning account for almost half of a family’s annual energy usage. Keeping your Covington, GA HVAC system well-maintained can reduce energy costs by up to 40 percent. Why not save money and energy by doing simple maintenance on your HVAC equipment? Here are simple tasks that keep systems running smoothly.

Clean Air Filter

Filters prevent airborne pollutants from entering the HVAC system. When air filters get dirty, particulates bypass the filter, circulate through ducts and settle on coils, making the compressor work harder. Eventually, the unit stops working. Clean or replace filters at least every three months. If you live in an area with a lot of pollutants, clean filters every month. This simple task can lower energy consumption by up to 15 percent.

Keep Outdoor Unit Clean

The condenser of a split HVAC system is usually located outside. Keeping vegetation trimmed back at least 2 feet allows air to circulate around the unit. Keep lawn clippings and leaves away from the unit as well. If the area is dusty, clean the housing with a low-pressure hose. Be sure to turn the power off before starting.

Clean Drip Pans and Condensate Pipe

Air conditioners don’t just control temperature. They also control humidity, a significant factor for comfort in the greater Atlanta area. Moisture removed from the air is caught in a drip pan and routed to the condensate pipe, which drains the water out of the house. If the pan or tubing gets clogged, water will overflow the pan. Moisture overflows can damage the unit and nearby walls and floors. Check the pan and tubing each month to make sure the pan is clean and water is flowing out.

Most manufacturers recommend seasonal tune-ups to keep furnaces and air conditioners running efficiently. Zack Hammonds A/C Heating Refrigeration, Inc. provides seasonal maintenance to keep your HVAC unit in tip-top shape. We check, clean and adjust every element to make sure each performs properly. Call (770) 661-0334 for more information about how our HVAC maintenance plans reduce breakdowns and save money.