VWB Blog Are you thoroughly cleaning and maintaining your home’s HVAC system?
While a big part of AC maintenance involves checking and re-checking your system’s functionalities, an even more critical task is the physical cleaning of the system. Neglected air vents, for example, can leave your HVAC system unable to maintain a perfect temperature in your home.
In this article, we’re going to talk about common errors in residential AC maintenance and how you can avoid them. Read on and improve your HVAC management today.
1. Neglecting Regular Filter Cleaning/Replacement
Neglecting this crucial step can have several damaging effects on both the lifespan and efficiency of the machine, which can be incredibly expensive to fix. If gone unchecked and allowed to accumulate dirt and debris, the filter can become clogged. This of which forces the AC unit to work harder to reach the desired temperature.
Preventing this common mistake is simple and can be done through diligent maintenance and routine filter changes. If you have an AC without an external unit, it is important to make sure you purchase the correct air filter for your system and replace it regularly for optimal performance.
2. Improper Refrigerant Handling
Incorrect refrigerant levels can lead to costly repairs and shorter cooling unit lifespans. Some common errors include overcharging the system with too much or too little refrigerant. It could also mean adding refrigerant outside of normal operating temperature.
To avoid this, homeowners should always consult the manufacturer’s manual. The manual shows steps for any adjustments to the system, which includes handling the refrigerant. Take caution when handling refrigerant as it is a hazardous substance.
3. Ignoring Outdoor Unit Maintenance
If left unchecked, the outdoor unit can reduce energy efficiency and lead to your air conditioner breaking down. To avoid this mistake, homeowners should regularly inspect and clean the outdoor unit to ensure that there aren’t any problems, such as a clogged condenser or cracked lines.
4. Skipping Professional Maintenance
Professional maintenance can help identify any potential problems beforehand. It can alleviate future expenses incurred due to long-term damage. Failing to schedule annual maintenance can lead to common issues such as:
- clogged filters
- malfunctioning thermostats
- a rise in energy bills
Utilizing professional services for regular AC inspections and specific solutions will prove beneficial in the long run.
5. Ignoring Ductwork Inspection
Neglecting to inspect the condition of the ductwork leads to major concerns. Take the time to inspect the ductwork and ensure it is free of:
- dirt
- debris
- mold
This is because these can impede airflow. Additionally, it ensures the ductwork is properly insulated to reduce energy costs and ensure the entire house is receiving consistent cooling.
6. Overlooking Thermostat Settings
If the thermostat settings are not changed from their default settings, the AC unit won’t reach its optimal performance. In addition, if the settings are not adjusted according to the weather during maintenance, the unit will overheat, wasting energy and increasing the energy bills unnecessarily. To avoid this, it’s important to check the thermostat settings annually and make sure that they are adjusted accurately.
Avoid These Common Errors in Residential AC Maintenance
To maintain a healthy residential AC system, avoid common errors in residential AC maintenance, such as putting off air filter changes and not checking for seal leaks. Consider getting a preventive AC maintenance plan and an AC tune-up annually to ensure your AC system runs efficiently and lasts longer.
Contact your local HVAC specialist for more information on how cleaning AC units should be done.
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