New Homeowners Guide to HVAC Maintenance

Congratulations on the purchase of your first home. As a new homeowner you have a lot to learn, such as how to maintain your HVAC (heating and cooling) system. The HVAC system is one of the biggest and most important appliances in your home. It keeps your home feeling comfortable all year long and controls humidity levels to protect your home from mold.

But in order for your HVAC system to operate properly and efficiently, regular maintenance is required. You may be able to handle some basic maintenance yourself, but unless you’re an expert, you’ll need to find professional HVAC maintenance in Greensboro to keep your system in good shape.

DIY Air Conditioner Maintenance 

The following are suggested “do it yourself” AC maintenance steps:

• Change filters. The filters in your intake vents should be replaced every 6 months at the very least, and every 3 months for best results. If your home is a new construction or was recently renovated, change your filters every month for the first 6 months.
• Clean vents. After removing dirty filters, clean the vents before putting new filters in. Clean the output vents as well.
• Clear debris from outdoor unit. It is best to keep leaves and other debris away from your outdoor unit. Trim bushes and trees back away from the unit to allow plenty of airflow.
• Check thermostat. Check your thermostat to ensure it is working properly. Look for any warning messages and make sure it is set to an ideal temperature. If your thermostat runs on batteries, consider replacing them.

AC Maintenance Best Left to the Professionals

Further maintenance is required on a yearly basis for your air conditioner, but these steps are best left to a professional HVAC company:

• Clean condenser and evaporator coils
• Clean drain lines for proper flow and clear clogs
• Clear drain pans of any standing water to avoid overflows
• Replace worn pulleys and belts
• Inspect ducts for mold, dust, and debris
• Observe humidity levels
• Check refrigerant charge and for leaks
• Test thermostats and controls to make sure temperatures and timer functions are correctly set
• Check electrical system and connections
• Check fan motor
• Check blowers and blades for proper airflow
• Lubricate motors bearings and moving parts
• Inspect cabinet for leaks and check cabinet door for secure closure

DIY Heating System Maintenance 

For heating system maintenance, you can handle the following:

• Change filters. The intake vents for your heating system are most likely the same ones used by your heating system in the case of a forced air HVAC system. Continue to change your filters at least every 3 months during the cold weather season.
• Clean vents. Clean the vents whenever you change filters.
• Check thermostat. When you switch from AC to heat in the fall, check your thermostat to make sure it is working properly and that it is set to the desired temperature.
• Clean indoor furnace unit. Wherever your furnace is located (typically either the attic or basement or a “utility closet”) clean dust and cobwebs from the outside and make sure all storage is kept away from the unit.

Professional Heating System Maintenance

The following heating system maintenance items are best left to a professional HVAC company:

• Inspect ignition burner assembly
• Examine heat exchanger or heating elements
• Study flue system and ensure secure attachment to the furnace
• Inspect for gas leaks with gas furnaces
• Assess gas pressure
• Check pulleys and belts
• Clear drain lines and pans
• Check electrical connections
• Lubricate motors, bearings and other moving parts
• Check thermostats and controls
• Check fan and blower operations and adjust as needed
• Inspect heat pump
• Examine ductwork and vents

Berico Provides HVAC Maintenance in Greensboro

If you’re looking for an HVAC service in Greensboro, Berico is a top-rated company. Berico can help you keep your HVAC maintenance cost low with affordable plans to take care of your AC and heat in one package. Call 336-273-8663 or schedule service today.