Every homeowner that purchases an HVAC system has made a significant investment in their indoor comfort. This is particularly true in summer when hotter temperatures make us seek relief indoors during the hottest parts of the day. An AC system is a complex piece of equipment, comprised of electrical, mechanical and electronic parts that are designed to work together. This equipment needs to be maintained to ensure that it offers the required cooling performance in an energy efficient manner. The key to keeping an AC system running well is preventative maintenance.

The Importance of HVAC Preventative Maintenance

Experts recommend that an HVAC system should be serviced prior to every cooling season. This will ensure that the system is operating at peak performance before the hotter weather arrives. There will adequate time to fix any issues that are discovered to make sure the system can handle the season ahead. Any servicing should be carried out by a certified and qualified HVAC technician from a company with an excellent reputation.

Failing to Maintain Equipment

If you’ve reached the end of summer without getting a service carried out, you may have beaten the odds this time, but it’s a good idea not to make this practice a habit. When HVAC equipment is not maintained, it can fail at the worst possible times, and it may be hard to get hold of an HVAC technician to fix the problem. Poorly maintained equipment is far more likely to fail, and the useful lifespan of the entire system can be shorter than the manufacturer intended. Even in late summer, it’s a great idea to carry out some maintenance tasks yourself. You may want to contact an HVAC technician to evaluate and service your system if you have a specific problem.

Some HVAC Maintenance Tasks for Late Summer

  • Checking the air filter: When the HVAC system has been used for prolonged periods of heavy duty cooling the air filter can quickly become full of unwanted contaminants. During heavy use, it’s a good idea to change or clean the air filter every month. If your air filter is a replaceable model, it may recommend a change every three months. This is fine for normal use, but more frequent changes are a better idea during a hot summer.
  • Inspect the grilles and registers: Take a quick tour of your home and check that all the registers and grilles are not shut or blocked. The vents should never be blocked; this will restrict the airflow throughout your home and lead to inefficient performance. This is a common cause of hot and cold spots, and it can lead to overheating issues.
  • Check the exterior unit: The exterior unit houses vital cooling equipment, and it needs to be kept clear of obstructions. The unit may be located in your yard; there could be plant growth, grass clippings, leaves, dirt, and debris that has accumulated there over the summer. Trim the vegetation back and gently brush away any other debris with a soft brush. It’s also a good idea to avoid storing gardening tools and outdoor furniture near your exterior unit.