Complete HVAC Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners

Maintaining your home's HVAC system is crucial for ensuring optimal comfort, energy efficiency, and longevity of the equipment.

Whether you're a new homeowner or have been living in your house for years, keeping up with regular HVAC maintenance can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

But don't worry - we're here to help Let's go through the ultimate HVAC maintenance checklist.

Clean Air Filters

One of the top HVAC maintenance tips is to regularly check your filters. Dirty or clogged filters can restrict airflow, causing the system to work harder than necessary.

This not only leads to higher energy bills but can also result in increased wear and tear on the system, potentially leading to costly repairs.

Standard fiberglass filters often need to be replaced every 30 days. Pleated filters, which tend to be of higher quality, can last up to three months. Homes with pets or in areas with high levels of dust or pollution may require more frequent changes.

Check Thermostat Settings

The thermostat is the control center of your HVAC system, regulating the temperature and ensuring the system operates according to your preferences. Ensuring that your thermostat is set correctly and functioning properly can help you maintain a comfortable indoor environment while optimizing energy use.

When you're more familiar with your thermostat settings, it'll be easier for you to save on energy.

Upgrading your home with a programmable or smart thermostat can further enhance your HVAC system's efficiency. Programmable thermostats let you choose different temperatures depending on what time of the day it is, ensuring that your system runs only when needed.

Smart thermostats go beyond this by learning your schedule and preferences. Then, they automatically adjust the temperature for maximum comfort and efficiency.

Many smart thermostats can also be controlled wherever you are via smartphone apps. That provides added convenience and control.

Look at Levels

The refrigerant level directly impacts the performance and efficiency of your HVAC system. When levels are too low, the system must work harder to cool or heat your home, which can cause your AC compressor and other components to overheat and fail prematurely.

In addition to increased wear and tear, insufficient refrigerant can lead to higher energy bills and reduced comfort levels. Overcharging the system with too much refrigerant can also cause operational issues and damage.

Before inspecting the refrigerant levels, ensure your HVAC system is turned off to prevent injury and avoid further issues. Look for signs of ice buildup or frost on the evaporator coil. This can indicate low refrigerant levels and reduced system efficiency.

Check the refrigerant lines for any signs of leaks, such as oil stains or physical damage. Leaks are a regular cause of low HVAC refrigerant levels and need to be addressed promptly by a professional.

Test your System

Regular testing of your HVAC system helps to detect any operational inefficiencies or malfunctions early on.

This go-getter approach allows you to address issues before they escalate, potentially saving you from super expensive repairs and extending the overall lifespan of your California HVAC system.

Routine testing ensures that your system is ready to handle the demands of extreme weather. That provides peace of mind and uninterrupted comfort.

Start by turning on your HVAC system and setting it to either heating or cooling mode, depending on the season. Ensure that the thermostat is set to a temperature that will trigger the system to start.

Pay attention to any unusual sounds, such as banging, rattling, or squealing, which can indicate mechanical issues. These noises often signal problems with components like the blower motor, fan, or compressor.

Verify that air is flowing consistently and strongly from all vents and registers throughout your home. Weak or uneven airflow can indicate blockages, leaks in the ductwork, or issues with the blower fan.

Observe how frequently the system turns on and off. Short cycling (frequent on and off cycles) or long cycles (running for extended periods) can indicate issues with the thermostat, airflow, or refrigerant levels.

Don't Forget The Ducts

When it comes to taking care of HVAC maintenance, California homeowners often overlook the importance of keeping their ductwork in top condition.

The ducts are responsible for distributing heated or cooled air throughout your home, and any issues within the duct system can significantly affect your HVAC system's efficiency and your indoor air quality.

Visually inspect your ductwork for any obvious signs of dust, debris, or damage. Check for disconnected joints, holes, or gaps that could allow air to escape or contaminants to enter.

If you find any leaks or gaps in your ductwork, seal them with foil tape or mastic sealant. Properly sealed ducts can improve your system's efficiency and prevent the entry of contaminants.

Hire Professional Help with HVAC System Maintenance

Bringing in the professionals to help you with your HVAC inspections can make a world of difference.

Professional technicians have the training and experience to identify and address issues that could be skipped over during routine homeowner maintenance.

They are equipped with the right tools and techniques to perform thorough inspections, cleanings, and repairs, ensuring that your system functions at its best.

Professionals can also provide valuable advice on optimizing system performance and extending the lifespan of your equipment.

If your system is making unusual noises, failing to maintain the desired temperature, or showing signs of a refrigerant leak, it's time to call a professional. Trying to do difficult repairs without the necessary expertise can lead to damage to your home and safety hazards.

Professional installation of new HVAC systems or components ensures that everything is set up correctly and complies with safety standards.

Technicians can also recommend and install upgrades to improve efficiency and air quality.

Professionals can perform efficiency tests to assess how well your system is operating and identify areas for improvement.

HVAC Maintenance Checklist: Use This Today

With this HVAC maintenance checklist, you should be able to keep your home in top shape no matter the time of year.

Do you need more help with your preventative HVAC maintenance? Infinite Energy and Garner Roofing have been providing environmentally-friendly solutions since 1991.

Get in touch with us today.