The arrival of spring means it’s time to start thinking about getting your HVAC system tuned up and ready for another hot summer. Just like regular maintenance helps extend the life of your car, yearly maintenance helps ensure your HVAC system runs efficiently and provides maximum comfort all season long.
Check and Replace Air Filters as Needed
Clogged, dirty air filters are one of the most common causes of reduced airflow and inefficient HVAC performance. Air filters help capture dust, allergens, and other particles as indoor air circulates through the system. Over time, they inevitably get coated in grime that restricts air from flowing freely. HVAC experts recommend checking filters once a month during peak usage seasons and replacing them as soon as they appear excessively dirty. A twice-a-year filter change is usually sufficient for most homeowners.
Be sure to use the right size and type of filter for your specific HVAC model. Upgrading to a pleated filter can capture more particles and last longer between changes for furnaces. You may also want to upgrade your AC or heat pump filter to capture more pollen and other airborne particles that are more abundant in the spring. Be careful not to choose one with a MERV rating that is too high, as this can interfere with the airflow through your system. When in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or ask one of our technicians for advice on the ideal filters to use. Proper air filtration keeps your family breathing cleaner air and extends the life of HVAC components.
Inspect and Clean Evaporator and Condenser Coils
For your air conditioner or heat pump to function efficiently, air must flow freely across its coils. These heat transfer coils consist of delicate fins and tubing that can easily attract dust and debris over time. A thorough coil cleaning helps remove built-up grit and restores proper airflow.
A HVAC technician will use a high-pressure sprayer to flush out your coils. This deep clean dramatically improves HVAC performance and cooling capacity. They also inspect fins and tubing for damage that could detract from the unit’s performance. If any coils are bent or corroded beyond repair, we can recommend replacements as needed. Adding professional evaporator and condenser coil cleaning to your maintenance checklist every spring ensures your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to keep your house comfortable.
Check Refrigerant Levels
The refrigerant used in an AC or heat pump system absorbs heat from indoor air and transfers it outside to provide cooling. Like any machine, small leaks can develop over years of operation, causing refrigerant levels to decline slowly. Low refrigerant makes your system work overtime. Checking pressures with gauges is the only accurate way to evaluate charge levels.
If refrigerant levels are low, professionals recharge your system with the exact type and amount needed for optimal performance. Precision charging prevents damage from overfilling while restoring cooling capacity. They also conduct thorough leak tests to detect issues allowing refrigerant loss so any faults can be repaired. Keeping your AC or heat pump properly charged maximizes efficiency and avoids strain on your equipment.
Lubricate Motors and Inspect Belts
The motors and belts that drive fans and compressors are two of your HVAC system’s most essential mechanical components. Motor bearings need fresh lubrication annually to prevent noisy operation and premature wear. Belt tension and conditions should also be inspected. Loose belts will slip and fail to turn components properly. Brittle, cracked, or frayed belts need replacement.
A technician will lubricate motors as needed and check for unusual sounds that could indicate problems. They also examine belts closely and recommend new ones when necessary. Proper drive system maintenance means you can rely on continuous cooling during the hottest summer days. Keeping motors and belts in top shape prevents many common mechanical failures.
Check Thermostat Calibration
An inaccurate thermostat causes headaches like your HVAC system running when it should be off or failing to turn on when needed. Digital programmable types and older mechanical thermostats can fall out of calibration over years of use. To restore precise temperature control, a professional will check your thermostat settings against actual room readings and make any offset adjustments needed.
If your thermostat’s settings have become corrupted, they can reprogram it. A professional can recommend a new programable thermostat or a smart model with advanced features like remote access and voice control if yours is outdated. Keeping your thermostat properly calibrated and programmed optimizes comfort and allows your HVAC system to cycle correctly.
Inspect Ductwork for Leaks and Damage
The ductwork running throughout your home distributes conditioned air from your HVAC system. Gaps or leaks anywhere in your ducts will lead to heating or cooling loss. Duct leaks force your system to work harder in order to maintain comfort.
Significant leaks may require professional duct sealing. Properly sealing ducts optimizes airflow to all rooms, improves efficiency, and helps lower energy costs. Any damaged or crushed supply and return ducts must also be replaced to maintain proper airflow. Checking duct integrity should be on every maintenance list.
Clean and Inspect Blower Components
A dirty blower wheel, housing, and motor can reduce airflow, cause blower failures, and even cause costly burnouts. Technicians use brushes and vacuum hoses designed to remove debris from HVAC components. They also check for oil buildup and worn bearings. Catching minor blower issues early can avoid the need to replace entire motors later.
Check Condensate Drain Lines
Your AC or heat pump removes humidity from the air during cooling cycles. That condensation needs to drain away correctly. A clogged drain line or pan forces water to back up, which can lead to water damage. A professional will inspect drain lines and clear out algae, slime, or debris restricting flow. While examining the drain system, they also check for corrosion that could lead to leaks down the road. Catching and clearing minor condensate clogs prevents overflows later.
Inspect Ignition Assembly and Burner
Gas and oil furnaces require annual inspections of their ignition components and burners to ensure reliable heating and prevent dangerous malfunctions. A HVAC technician will check your pilot light assembly, flame sensor, burner tubes, and heat exchanger for dirt buildup, corrosion, or cracks that could impact function. Ensuring your furnace’s ignition assembly and burner operate flawlessly provides reliable winter warmth and prevents failures.
Check for Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Faulty venting, cracked heat exchangers, or other issues can cause carbon monoxide gas to leak from your furnace. This toxic, odorless gas is impossible to detect without a CO detector. For maximum safety, professionals use a combustion gas analyzer to check for elevated CO readings around your HVAC equipment and venting. Although exhaust leaks are uncommon in well-maintained systems, only testing can confirm your system is completely leak-free.
Schedule an Appointment Today
At BEST Air Conditioning Plumbing Repair, we have been serving the residents of Las Vegas, NV since 2016. We install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. Additionally, we provide indoor air quality and plumbing services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert technicians.
