3 Important Things You Need to Maintain In Your Home’s HVAC System

Your HVAC system keeps your home well-ventilated, heated, and cooled. Like any other machine, it needs regular maintenance to function. While the professionals at Peterson Mechanical are always ready to provide our professional Residential HVAC services in Bay Area, CA, there are a few things you can do to keep your HVAC systems running at peak condition. Below are some things you can do to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. 

Change Your Air Filter Regularly

The air filter is a crucial component of your HVAC system. It traps dust, allergens, and other airborne contaminants that circulate throughout your home. A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and less efficiently. This can lead to higher energy bills, uneven cooling or heating, and even premature equipment failure.

How often you should change your air filter depends on several factors:

1. The type of filter: Higher-quality filters with a MERV rating of 8 or higher will need to be changed more frequently than basic filters.
2. The season: Change your filter more often during spring or summer, or if you have pets that shed.
3. The number of occupants in your home: More people generate more dust and allergens.

As a general rule, aim to change your air filter every 1-3 months.  Check your filter monthly and replace it when it appears clogged or dusty. If you need help replacing your air filter, several helpful tutorials can be found online. Your local HVAC experts should also be able to help you replace your filter. 

Keep Vents and Registers Clear

Air vents and registers are the pathways through which conditioned air flows throughout your home. Blocked vents restrict airflow and can cause uneven heating or cooling. Blocked vents force your HVAC system to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing energy costs. 

Luckily, keeping your vents and registers clear is a simple task. You can begin by moving decorations, furniture, and other fixings away from the vent itself. Any dust and debris can be swept away with a duster or vacuumed. 

Minor Maintenance

While professional maintenance is important, there are a few simple tasks you can perform monthly to catch minor issues early on. 

1. Check the thermostat: Ensure it’s set to the desired temperature and functioning properly.
2. Inspect the outdoor unit: Clear any debris like leaves or branches from around the unit.
3. Look for leaks: Check for water leaks around the indoor unit or condensate drain line.
4. Listen for unusual noises: If you hear any grinding, banging, or other strange noises, it could indicate a potential problem.

By performing these simple visual checks monthly, you can stay on top of your HVAC system’s health and potentially prevent minor issues from turning into major problems. Remember, for any complex repairs or concerns, it’s always best to consult a qualified professional like Peterson Mechanical.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently, ensuring year-round comfort and efficiency. If you think you have an issue beyond your ability to address, contact Peterson Mechanical today! We offer a variety of residential HVAC services in Bay Area, CA to keep your home’s comfort system running smoothly.