Waterheatertimer
on Twitter How to Prepare HVAC System for Summer Is your HVAC system part of spring-cleaning to-do list? It should be, and doing so will extend life of unit.
Why Does It Matter? The system takes air in and “breathes” air out. Through
normal human activity, we generate contaminants and air pollutants such
as dander, dust and chemicals that settle inside homes. Contaminants
are pulled into HVAC system and get recirculated five to seven times a
day, causing buildup of contaminants in ductwork.
HVAC Checklist -Change furnace filter to prevent contaminants in ductwork Filter
is located behind the return air grille ... usually near the floor
level ... The return air grille is where air is sucked from inside home
and back into the HVAC. Filters get dirty, especially with indoor pets (contributing dander and hair to the system). At a minimum, change the filter twice a year, in the spring and in the fall. Every other month is better. Clean filter means easy air flow, and less cost and wear-tear on blower motor. If you or family member suffer allergies or asthma, change filter monthly. If
return air grille with filter is located in a place that’s difficult to
reach, call local HVAC service, or have neighbor help. Filters are available in various sizes at local hardware store or box store.
-Get rid of clutter inside house. Do not block or restrict return air grille. The
more cluttered your home is, the more opportunity there is for dust and
allergens to accumulate, thereby reducing indoor air quality. Spring is
a great time of year to make a clean sweep — sell unwanted items at a
yard sale or round them up and donate to your local charity.
-Compressor must breathe freely. Are weeds and shrubberies making your air conditioning unit feelclaustrophobic? Give it room to breathe and function efficiently by clearing out at least a 2’ radius around and above the compressor. Clean up leaves and yard debris from around base of unit Make sure unit is above anticipated water level Use a blower and remove debris and leaves from clogging intake louvers Use a scrub brush and water (with ot without bleach) to clean the unit.
Comprehensive tune-up and cleaning by professional should include:
In-depth service includes:
Check and inspect heat exchanger Clean and adjust burner assembly Clean ignition assembly Examine heat exchanger Monitor flue draft (gas units) Monitor refrigerant pressure Test starting capabilities Test safety controls
Typical twice-a-year serice includes
Check and clean standard air filters Clean and adjust blower components Measure for correct airflow Tighten electrical connections Measure volts/amps Lubricate all moving parts Adjust thermostat calibration Clean evaporator coil if accessible Clean condenser coil Clean condensate drains Measure temperature difference Apply protective coating to unit Adjust gas pressure Adjust pilot Monitor a/c and heating cycle Buy
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