Whether you just bought a new air conditioner (AC) or have a decade-old model, routine heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) maintenance is important. Regular care helps to extend your system's lifespan and maximize your energy efficiency. Plus, the best HVAC maintenance tips can help you enjoy a comfortable home throughout the year.

Top HVAC companies, like Central Oregon Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, know how to diagnose and prevent repair issues. Through high-quality maintenance, you can avoid the majority of HVAC repairs.

3. Clean the Outdoor Unit

One of the easiest energy efficiency tips is to keep your outdoor unit clean. There should be no dirt, plants, or debris for at least 2 to 3 feet around your outdoor unit.

 

4. Check Refrigerant Levels

Your refrigerant levels determine how efficiently your AC can cool your home. If the levels are low, your AC will have to work harder to keep your home comfortable. Your evaporator coils may freeze. While you can't check the refrigerant on your own, you can schedule an AC maintenance service and get the refrigerant levels checked out.

 

5. Inspect and Clean Ductwork

If your ductwork is damaged or blocked, air won't be able to get through and the air quality will suffer. Periodically, you should inspect the ductwork for potential leaks. Then, you can call a professional to seal the leaks and fix any duct-related issues.

 

6. Clear and Maintain Vents

One of the easiest home cooling tips you can do is clear your vents. Make sure furniture, clothes, and other items aren't blocking the airflow from your vents. From time to time, take the vent covers off and wash them with warm, soapy water. Before putting them back on, vacuum out the inside of the vents.

 

7. Lubricate Moving Parts

By lubricating moving parts, you can prevent friction from happening between the parts. This can help decrease the wear and tear on your HVAC system. Proper lubrication can help you avoid damage and extend the lifespan of your HVAC unit. To get your HVAC parts lubricated, schedule a professional HVAC appointment at least once each year.

 

8. Check for Strange Noises

An easy way to spot potential repair issues is to listen for unusual noises. Hissing, clanging, and banging noises are indicators of loose parts, refrigerant leaks, and faulty components. To avoid additional damage or safety issues, reach out to an HVAC repair professional right away.

 

9. Keep the Area Around Your HVAC Unit Clean

Another one of the best HVAC maintenance tips is to keep your unit clean. Any obstructions, plants, debris, or clutter can block air from flowing into and out of your AC. From time to time, you should clean around your indoor and outdoor HVAC units.

 

10. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance

To keep your AC running its best, you need to schedule AC maintenance service once a year. Ideally, your maintenance check should occur in the spring before your air conditioner needs to be used all the time.

By reaching out to a company like Central Oregon Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, you can get help with your routine maintenance. Through these inspections, you can prevent costly repairs and avoid unexpected breakdowns during the summertime. Plus, Central Oregon has a maintenance plan that makes scheduling your routine maintenance as hassle-free as possible.

 

Learn the Best HVAC Maintenance Practices

Through the best HVAC maintenance tips, you can save money on repairs and reduce your energy bill each month. More importantly, the best HVAC care will help your HVAC system work its best throughout the year. By reaching out to a top-rated HVAC contractor, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns during hot days.