HVAC Maintenance

HVAC Maintenance Tips

Steps To Take For Preventative Maintenance

Though biannual service manages the critical parts of your system, there’s still more frequent maintenance you can complete to ensure your unit is taken care of throughout the year.

Preventative HVAC maintenance may include:

• Replacing the filter: On average, you should change the HVAC filter every three to six months. However, if you smoke or have pets, consider replacing the filter more often, as it may clog faster.
• Tune-ups: Your scheduled tune-up allows our professionals to monitor any aging parts, clean up dust, and tighten any loose parts. This ensures that your unit is prepared to last through the season.
• Cleaning the condenser: The outside piece of your HVAC system can collect dirt and debris or even become nesting for pests. To avoid this issue, keep a five-foot radius around your unit clear of bushes to prevent debris from clogging your system. Periodically check for signs of nesting, so rats or mice don’t chew wiring and cause a short.

Trust True Blue Heating & Cooling for expert HVAC maintenance in Tulsa to keep your unit at 100%.

Regularly changing your filter and performing other preventative maintenance tasks will help extend the lifespan of your unit.

Signs That Your HVAC System Needs Maintenance

Several signs indicate your HVAC system may need maintenance. Being attentive to these signs can help you address issues early on and prevent more significant problems.

Here are some common signs:

• Reduced airflow: If you notice weak or decreased airflow from your vents, it could indicate a clogged air filter, a malfunctioning blower fan, or ductwork issues.
• Uneven cooling or heating: If certain areas of your home feel warmer or colder than others, your HVAC system might be struggling to distribute air evenly, possibly due to duct problems or an improperly functioning thermostat.
• Strange noises: Unusual sounds, such as grinding, banging, squealing, or rattling noises, may indicate mechanical issues within the HVAC system that need attention.
• Foul odors: Persistent musty, moldy, or burning smells coming from the vents can signal mold growth, electrical problems, or overheating components.
• Increased energy bills: A sudden or gradual increase in your energy bills without a corresponding change in usage patterns can indicate decreased system efficiency, often caused by issues like dirty coils or air filters.
• Constant cycling: Frequent on-and-off cycling of your HVAC system might be a sign of thermostat issues, improper refrigerant levels, or other problems that require maintenance.
• Leaks or water puddles: The presence of water around the HVAC unit may indicate a clogged condensate drain line or refrigerant leaks that need immediate attention.
• The HVAC unit is constantly running: If your system runs non-stop or doesn’t turn off at the desired temperature, there may be issues with the thermostat, compressor, or other components.
• Weak heating or cooling: If your HVAC system struggles to reach the desired temperature, it could indicate problems with the compressor, refrigerant levels, or other mechanical issues.
• Reduced indoor air quality: An increase in dust, allergens, or other airborne particles inside your home might result from dirty air filters, ductwork problems, or issues with the air purification system.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to schedule HVAC maintenance promptly.

Regular maintenance can help keep your system running efficiently, prevent breakdowns, and extend its lifespan.

Contacting a qualified HVAC technician to inspect and service your system is recommended to ensure proper diagnosis and resolution of the issues.

Commonly Asked Questions

What are some signs that my HVAC system needs maintenance?

Some common signs include reduced airflow, uneven cooling or heating, strange noises, foul odors, increased energy bills, constant cycling, leaks or water puddles, the HVAC unit constantly running, weak heating or cooling, and reduced indoor air quality.

How can I prevent debris from clogging my HVAC system?

To prevent debris from clogging your system, keep a five-foot radius around your unit clear of bushes, and periodically check for signs of nesting to avoid rats or mice from chewing wiring and causing a short.

Why is regular HVAC maintenance important?

Regular maintenance can help keep your system running efficiently, prevent breakdowns, and extend its lifespan. It is recommended to contact a qualified HVAC technician to inspect and service your system to ensure proper diagnosis and resolution of any issues.