As a homeowner in the Fort Worth area, you have many responsibilities. From keeping up with the lawn to maintaining your appliances, a mountain of work needs to be done. Perhaps one of the most important appliances to keep up with is your HVAC system.
People often push HVAC maintenance to the back of their minds, expecting the systems to just work. Unfortunately, they don’t work forever. With routine heating and AC maintenance, technicians can troubleshoot many areas that will save you time and money. Maintenance will also increase the life expectancy of your HVAC system.
You can help ensure your air conditioner and heater are operating at peak performance with these 5 HVAC troubleshooting tips:
1. Replace Air Filters Regularly
One of the most common causes of a faulty air conditioner is a dirty, clogged filter. When dirt and debris accumulate in the filter, your HVAC system works harder than necessary. Change the air filters about every 30 to 60 days to prevent this. You’ll get the best performance from your system and improve your indoor air quality.
2. Inspect the Thermostat
The best way to check if your HVAC system is working is to inspect the thermostat. Adjust the settings, and you should get a response from your unit. If nothing happens when you adjust the temperature settings try turning the fan switch from auto to on. The blower should come on, if it doesn’t, there is definitely an issue. Replace the batteries in your thermostat if it has them yearly to ensure your system functions appropriately, especially through the sweltering Texas summers!
3. Check the Circuit Breaker
Sometimes it takes a while before you realize the air conditioner or heater is out. Suddenly your Fort Worth home gets hot or cold. Check the circuit breaker in the main electrical panel to see if something has tripped the breaker for your system.
If the HVAC system is the only thing powered off, try turning its breaker back on. If that doesn’t solve the problem, contact a professional for a diagnosis and solution.
4. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean
Some homeowners don’t even realize they have an outdoor unit! Most likely, it will be near grass and other debris, which can lead to problems. Pay special attention to where air enters the coil. This area tends to collect the most dirt, and keeping it clean will prevent it from becoming clogged, prolonging the life of your unit. Be sure you’re not driving dirt back into the coil though.
5. Registers! Ducts! And Vents! Oh My!
Your HVAC system circulates air through your entire home. It will trap various contaminants, including pet hair, within the ducts and vents. Over time, these debris will build up and greatly impact your indoor air quality and can also reduce air circulation quality.
It’s best to clean your air ducts every three to five years and the vents every few months. This cleaning will ensure the air you breathe is as clean as possible.
Need Help with AC Maintenance?
Regular AC maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated. These simple tasks are quick to do and will prevent more significant problems from developing. We recommend a yearly professional inspection to properly review your entire unit.
Call AC Genius today to learn more about AC maintenance or schedule your appointment!
