Your HVAC system works hard during the warmer months of the year to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. This hard work, however, leads to wear and tear as well as dirty components. Taking care of your HVAC system’s needs in the winter will help you enjoy greater reliability, lower energy bills and improved comfort at home in the warmer months to come.
Change Air Filters
Air filters capture the many particles floating in your home’s air. Some of these include dander, dust, hair and mold spores. By capturing the particles, the air filter keeps them from entering your HVAC system and affecting its performance. To be effective, however, the air filters must remain clean. Most air filters should be changed every three months. The change of seasons is the perfect time to replace air filters and prepare for the upcoming season.
Clean Air Ducts
Like air filters, air ducts will grow increasingly dirty over time. Dirty air ducts result in increased indoor air pollution and affect how well your HVAC system runs. While air filters require replacement several times per year, air ducts typically should be cleaned every few years. If it’s been more than a few years since your ducts were last cleaned, consult with an HVAC technician to determine if a cleaning is needed this winter.
Schedule HVAC Maintenance Service
Preparing your HVAC system for heavy use during the upcoming months involves scheduling maintenance service. Maintenance service removes the filth that has built up in the system, including on the coils. Refrigerant will be inspected and replenished. The technician will also inspect the ducts for leaks and other issues. This critical service erases signs of wear that otherwise could affect how well your system functions in the months ahead.
Repair Your System
If your HVAC system requires repairs, it’s best to fix them well before turning on your system for the first time in the spring. Damage and excessive wear impact how well your system works, and it can also lead to more extensive damage and higher repair bills later on. For these reasons, and also to optimize your system’s longevity, it’s best to stay on top of repair issues. Because your HVAC system isn’t frequently used in the winter, the inconvenience of having your system offline for repairs is minimized.
Giving your home’s HVAC system the care it needs this winter gets it ready for regular use throughout the spring and summer months. Schedule an appointment for HVAC service with Integrity Heating & Air in New Orleans, LA today.
