Approximately 75 percent of utility costs in American households come from the energy used by home electronics, including HVAC. Much of this power is wasted when the electronics are in standby mode.
During normal use, dirt, dust, and leaves can accumulate in and around the components. If HVAC preventive maintenance is not done, your system will be inefficient.
As such, the AC unit will consume more power and increase your utility costs. When regular maintenance is not carried out, it will lead to expensive repairs. To extend the lifespan of your AC, you need an HVAC maintenance checklist.
This is a type of job aid for keeping your HVAC equipment in top shape.
In this article, we highlight the six elements of a complete HVAC maintenance checklist.
Lubricate the Bearings and Motors
Once a year, inspect and lubricate critical parts, such as bearings, motors, and pulleys. Failure to lubricate these components can lead to overheating, which can damage the wheel assembly.
It’s also important to pay attention to the belt. Make sure they are tensioned correctly. If not, it can lead to uneven performance.
Inspect Your Filters
Air filters capture dust, dirt, and other contaminants. If the filters are not cleaned or replaced, they can reduce airflow in your home. Also, they can diminish the performance of the unit, increasing your utility costs.
Cleaning your air filters can lower energy consumption by 15 percent. It is important to inspect your filters every month.
Inspect Outdoor Components
Part of the HVAC Maintenance Checklist is inspecting the cabinet and coils. If leaves accumulate outside the main cabinet, clean the unit. Clear any obstructions in the condensate lines and drain pans.
For the control box, wiring, safety controls, and switches take the time to inspect them. If dirt or dust is present, clean the control box and switches. Don’t forget to check the cabinet and coil for leaks and holes.
Trim the Bushes and Grass around Your Unit
Tree branches, grass, bushes, and other foliage can grow around the outdoor unit. This can hamper its performance. The dry leaves from trees and bushes can accumulate in the unit, making it inefficient.
To keep the leaves from dropping into the unit, carry out HVAC preventive maintenance. Simply trim the shrubbery and other foliage. Doing so creates adequate space around the unit.
Program Your Thermostat
Programmable thermostats work for both heating and cooling. Instead of changing the settings manually, homeowners can select automated settings. Most programmable thermostats offer up to eight climate control zones.
This allows you to select individual temperature settings for different rooms. If you have a smart thermostat, control the settings from your smartphone or tablet.
Perform System Checks by Referring to Your Maintenance Checklist
As part of your preventive maintenance checklist, carry out checks to find leaks. If you discover damaged components, repair or replace them. It is important to check for obstructions in the drainage lines too.
If clogs are present, it can lead to mold growth. To prevent this, remove all obstructions.
Fast Service Is Our Top Priority
Carrying out periodic inspections and system checks will enable you to identify problems. This helps to boost the performance of your HVAC unit. To extend the lifespan of your HVAC, have a customized HVAC maintenance checklist.
Are you in search of an expert who can tailor an air conditioner maintenance checklist to your needs? Contact us today!
