We depend on our air conditioner and heater to get us through the harsh temperatures that accompany the changing of seasons. As long as our homes remain at a comfortable temperature,it’s easy to forget that we have pieces of machinery keeping us so content. In fact,the most thought that many of us give to these units is when they start to go awry and we have to deal with sorting of AC and heater repair services,which can often be a big expense. There are ways to prevent these minor disasters,however,most of which involve simple,preventative maintenance. Read on for some tips to keep AC and heater repair costs at bay.
Avoid Common Mistakes
HVAC professionals state that the most common mistakes they typically encounter are consumers that simply forget about their systems. You have to remember that these pieces of equipment are serving major functions in your house and need to be taken care of regularly to run properly. Without checking on things,you could be looking at costly fixes down the road.
Make a Plan
To avoid AC and heater repairs,you need to have a plan in place for how you will take care of your unit,both in the immediate future and far down the road. Create a list full of tasks that should be done immediately,monthly or seasonally,as well as annually. To start,you should buy a high-energy,pleated air filter to keep your units free of pollen,leaves,and grass. You’ll also want to clear two feet of space around your outdoor AC and heating units. Monthly or seasonally,you will need to inspect refrigerant lines and replace your air filters. In the summer,you should turn off the water to the furnace heater,and in the fall,you should replace the humidifier filter and turn the water back on. Finally,you will need to replace your carbon monoxide detector batteries every year,as well as ensure that outdoor AC and heating units are on firm and level ground. You can also take the time to clear the AC condensate drain with a bleach and water mixture.
Be Aware
Pay attention to any unusual noises you hear coming from the unit. Don’t wait until the problem gets worse,and definitely do not ignore it. Weird noises necessitate a visit from a professional. A small part may be burning up or something may not be running correctly. It is worthwhile in the long run to make the call.
Common Sense
Many professionals report that they have been called in for AC and heater repairs simply because homeowners are blocking airflow pathways. Don’t cover up your air vents to hide them; they are needed for the proper flow of air. You also don’t want to store things too close to the vents in your basement. In fact,this can actually be a fire hazard.
Follow some of these easy tips,and you’ll save money on your system for years to come!