Proper maintenance of your cooling and heating system has many advantages. Not only will your equipment last longer, but your indoor air quality will be freer of allergens and airborne contaminants, thus keeping your family safer. Learn these helpful pointers for HVAC maintenance to reduce the need for unexpected repairs and lengthen your HVAC equipment’s lifespan.

Do:

Schedule yearly maintenance.

A professional check-up at least once a year will keep your system running at maximum efficiency. Support will include blower compartment vacuuming, refrigerant level checks for your A/C unit, inspections for loose wires, and motor tests. To catch problems before they become a nuisance, try servicing your air conditioners and heating systems before periods of heavy use.

Change air filters.

Disposable filters keep your system clean and remove large particles from your indoor air. You should typically replace air filters for your cooling and heating system every few months, but if its allergy season or you have pets in your home, you may want to replace them more often. Visually inspect your filter regularly for excess dust and debris to decide if it needs to be changed.

Don’t:

Run your HVAC system at full blast when you’re not home.

If you’re going to be out for the day, either turn your HVAC system off or adjust the temperature by 10 degrees (higher in the summer, lower in the fall and winter). This will ensure that your home is at a comfortable temperature when you return, and it won’t force your system to work hard to maintain its usual temperature when you aren’t around to enjoy it.

Neglect strange smells and noises.

Smells and noises can indicate problems with your equipment. Musty air emanating from your vents is a sign of mold and mildew, especially in more humid areas. An odor like rotten eggs could be a sign of a gas leak, while squealing and shrieking sounds indicate a bad belt in the motor system. Contact a professional if unfamiliar sounds and smells persist.

If your cooling and heating system needs care, call the professionals at Arctic Mechanical Heating & Cooling in Port Chester, NY. Operating in the area for more than 20 years, their contractors can handle a variety of hardware, including mini-split systems, ductless heating, and ductless A/C systems. Visit their website for a look at their maintenance plans, or call for an appointment at (914) 934-8301.