HVAC Tips: The Perfect HVAC Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners!
We’ve organized HVAC tips for you to make to find precise solutions for your air conditioning or heating inquiries. The initial part of our HVAC maintenance checklist caters to your level of familiarity (beginner, homeowner, renter). The subsequent section provides seasonal HVAC recommendations to help you determine the ideal moments for preventive maintenance.
Quick Links:
- HVAC Maintenance Tips for Beginners
- HVAC Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
- HVAC Maintenance Tips for Renters
- HVAC Maintenance Tips for Summer
- HVAC Maintenance Tips for Spring
- HVAC Maintenance Tips for Winter
HVAC Maintenance Tips for Beginners
Let’s begin with the basics for HVAC beginners:
1. What does HVAC stand for?
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
2. What are the components that make up an HVAC system?
A complete central air and heat system comprise nine essential components: the furnace, heat exchanger, evaporator coil, condensing unit, refrigerant tubes, thermostat, ductwork, vents, and heat pump. We’ll delve into these parts in detail shortly.
3. What is a Furnace?
Your furnace, whether powered by electricity or natural gas, is your heating unit, typically located in your basement, garage, or utility closet. Its primary function is to warm up air and distribute it through your ducts to heat your home. (Fun fact: Furnaces are sometimes confused with boilers, but they are distinct appliances.)
4. What is a Heat Exchanger?
Though located inside your furnace, the heat exchanger is responsible for converting cold air into hot air, a vital step in the heating process.
5. What is an Evaporator Coil
Evaporator Coil Cleaning Shreveport
Another component within your furnace, the evaporator coil absorbs heat from the passing air, enabling the circulation of cool air through your vents into your home.
6. What is a Condensing Unit?
Unlike the evaporator coil, you’ll find the condensing unit outdoors, often on the side of your house. While the evaporator coil absorbs heat, the condensing unit expels it, functioning as the exhaust for your home’s cooling process.
7. What’s a Line Set?
A Line Set is refrigerant tubes, typically made of metal, connect your evaporator coil to the condensing coil. They serve to contain refrigerant and link the indoor and outdoor units.
8. What is a Thermostat?
Your thermostat, mounted somewhere inside your house, enables you to control your home’s temperature. Smart Wi-Fi-connected thermostats offer convenient remote programming from your phone.
9. What is Ductwork?
Ductwork in Shreveport homes, often found overhead, facilitates the distribution of conditioned air from your furnace or AC unit throughout your house.
10. What are Vents?
Air vents permit the heated or cooled air to enter your living spaces from the ductwork.
11. What is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump functions for both heating and cooling purposes. In summer, it expels hot air from your home, while in winter, it operates in reverse, pumping warm air in.
HVAC Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
This section is primarily aimed at new homeowners seeking HVAC guidance, but it applies to all homeowners in Shreveport.
12. You Should Know What Type of HVAC System You Have.
For new homeowners, understanding your HVAC system is crucial. It might be a central air conditioning system, a ductless mini-split system, or even a window-attached wall unit. You should also be aware of whether your furnace runs on electricity, natural gas, or if your home uses a heat pump or boiler system.
13. Change Your Air Filters Regularly.
After moving into your new home, it’s advisable to replace the air filter. Even if the air conditioner wasn’t running often before your purchase, a fresh, clean air filter is a good starting point.
14. Make Sure Your Condenser Unit is Clear of Debris.
Located in your side yard, the condenser unit is easily overlooked. Over time, shrubs and debris can accumulate around it, hindering airflow and causing it to work harder to cool your home.
15. Don’t Close Your Vents.
Avoid the common mistake of closing vents in unused rooms to save energy. Doing so can reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency. Open vents allow for even temperature distribution throughout your home, maintaining efficiency while preventing allergies and blockages.
16. Have your Ductwork Cleaned & Inspected.
Most home inspectors don’t assess ductwork. As a new homeowner, if your home seems dusty or if your HVAC system is making unusual noises, it’s a good idea to inspect your ducts. While they might just need cleaning, in case of air leaks, contact an HVAC technician for repair or replacement.
17. Start Building a Relationship With Licensed Contractors.
As a new homeowner, you’re responsible for home appliance issues. Establishing a rapport with contractors is vital, particularly with your HVAC contractor. HVAC systems play a crucial role in your home’s comfort, and having a reliable contractor can save you money over time. They’ll be familiar with your home, HVAC system, and your expectations for service and pricing.
Learn About Right-Sizing HVAC Systems.
In order to to maximize the comfort level, efficiency & indoor air quality, it is essential to have the right-sized HVAC system for your home. When making a decision regarding AC tonnage, bigger is not always better, for example. Having an AC System that is too large can likely result in short cycling. A Short Cycling HVAC System quickly satisfies the thermostat, but too quickly to remove humidity. Increased humidity leads to mold & the air in your home feeling “cold & clammy”.
HVAC Maintenance Tips for Renters
Even as a renter, knowing some HVAC basics is valuable. While HVAC maintenance should be your landlord’s responsibility, unforeseen delays can be frustrating. Don’t wait while your Shreveport rental home becomes unbearably hot.
18. Clean Your HVAC Unit.
Prioritize proper maintenance, even if it’s not your HVAC unit. Clean it upon moving into your rental, ensuring the air filter is clean, and that all moving parts are well-lubricated and functioning smoothly.
19. Renters Should Take Photos of Their HVAC System.
Upon moving in, capture images of your furnace, condenser, vents, and accessible ducts. These photos serve as evidence in case of future HVAC issues.
20. Close Your Gas Valve.
If your furnace runs on natural gas, close the gas valve in the summer when heating isn’t needed. This precautionary measure can prevent potential gas leaks, especially if you’re unsure about the maintenance history of the rental property.
HVAC Maintenance Tips for Summer in Shreveport
Summer in Shreveport can be scorching, and optimizing your HVAC system is crucial. While there’s no one-size-fits-all AC temperature setting, here are some HVAC tips for making the most of your system’s efficiency during the sweltering season.
21. Clean Your Vents.
Shreveport experiences mild winters, which may lead to little AC use. Dust can accumulate in your vents during this period. Before relying on your AC heavily, inspect your vents and vacuum off any accumulated dust.
22. Invest in a Smart Thermostat.
Shreveport’s summers can be sweltering, and Southern California’s electricity costs are known to be high. A smart thermostat can provide peace of mind and save on cooling costs by maximizing your HVAC unit’s efficiency. These Wi-Fi-connected thermostats offer precise control over your home’s climate.
23. Schedule a Tuneup.
Before the summer heat kicks in, have an HVAC technician perform a thorough checkup on your AC unit. This preventive measure can prevent unpleasant surprises on the hottest days of the year.
HVAC Maintenance Tips for Spring in Shreveport
If you’re into spring cleaning, add HVAC maintenance to your list in Shreveport.
24. Check Your AC’s Drainage Hole.
Most air conditioners have a drainage hole to remove condensed fluid. Ensure this hole is clear to prevent water buildup and potential damage to your AC unit.
25. Don’t Forget About Your Dehumidifier.
In humid climates like Shreveport’s, a dehumidifier is essential. In spring, perform preventive maintenance by allowing your dehumidifier to dry out completely. Vacuum it to ensure it’s dry and free of debris for optimal performance.
26. Keep Your Windows and Doors Closed.
While spring in Shreveport is beautiful, it’s also allergy season. Opening doors and windows can invite allergens into your home. If you must keep them open, consider investing in a high-quality air purifier.
HVAC Maintenance Tips for Winter in Shreveport
Efficient heating is crucial during Shreveport’s chilly winters.
27. Add Some Insulation to Your Home.
In Shreveport, where winter temperatures can drop, effective insulation is key. Ensure your home is properly insulated to retain the heat generated by your furnace, ensuring efficient heating.
28. Cover Your Outdoor AC Unit.
During winter, you’re unlikely to use your AC unit. Protect it by covering it to prevent potential damage from winter elements.
29. Schedule Furnace Maintenance.
Before keeping your furnace running throughout the winter, arrange for a checkup with your local HVAC technician. Ensuring your furnace is in top condition is essential for a comfortable winter.
At Air Care in Shreveport, we’d love to earn your business & your trust. We offer expert HVAC service, including AC repair and AC installation. Our goal is to ensure your comfort and peace of mind throughout the year. We’re more than just an HVAC company; we’re your trusted HVAC partner in Shreveport, Louisiana. Contact us for all your HVAC needs.