Taking care of your HVAC system is the best way to extend its lifespan and ensure proper functionality. Some projections claim that the number of purchased HVAC units will be more than 151 million by 2024. 

With a good HVAC maintenance routine, you can ensure that your system is operating as it should be to help keep your home comfortable.

If you want to take proper care of your system, read on for a list of six common HVAC maintenance mistakes and how you can avoid them. 

1. Failing to Change Your Air Filter

Changing the air filter regularly is a key part of a good HVAC maintenance routine. The air filter is what keeps your system running smoothly while removing particles like dust, pet dander, and mold spores from the air.

If your air filter gets clogged, it can weigh your system down and cause it to work harder. Not only will this run up your monthly energy bill, but it could cause your system to break down.

Simply changing your HVAC air filter every 30 days (or per the manufacturer’s recommendations) is an easy and affordable way to do simple maintenance. Write down the date you changed the filter, then repeat this simple process monthly to ensure that your unit is operating as it should.

2. Common HVAC Maintenance Mistakes: Not Scheduling Inspections

One of the most common HVAC maintenance mistakes that homeowners make is failing to schedule regular inspections. Ideally, you should have your system inspected by a trained professional at least once a year.

If you don’t get regular inspections, you could miss something that may become a potentially serious issue later. A thorough inspection of your HVAC system will help you pinpoint potential problems and discover existing ones now so they can be fixed before it turns into something worse.

Being proactive is one of the best and most effective ways to avoid expensive HVAC maintenance costs later down the road. Contact our team for service and tune-ups so that you can have peace of mind knowing your system will work for you all year round.

3. Your Outdoor Unit is the Wrong Size

The size of your outdoor HVAC unit is directly related to the size of your home. If the unit you currently have isn’t big enough, it could cause serious issues. 

If the unit happens to be too small, then it won’t be able to keep up with your household’s demands in terms of indoor comfort. The harder the unit has to work, the more strain it creates.

Get in touch with our pros to see if we can help you determine whether or not your current system is appropriate for your home. In some cases, you may need to have an additional unit installed or have the system replaced with something larger. This will help to ensure that it can handle keeping your home cool in the summer without putting too much stress on the system.

4. Ignoring Unusual Sounds

Every HVAC system makes some kind of noise or sound when you turn it on. However, units that are making extremely loud or unusual signs could indicate a serious underlying problem.

If you continue to ignore these sounds, then eventually, your system might break down. Repairing HVAC damage before it gets out of hand is much easier and much less expensive than having to replace the entire system.

Almost every case of loud, weird noises is an indication that something is wrong with your system. Don’t wait and don’t ignore these noises if they continue. Schedule an appointment for repair as soon as you can to avoid expensive fixes that can put a dent in your wallet.

5. Not Cleaning the Air Vents

One way to avoid high HVAC maintenance costs and repairs is to simply clean the air vents in your home. These vents collect dust and debris and every time you turn on the system, the air is forced through the vents and into your house.

If there is debris or dirt blocking the vents, it can cause a backup. Dirty vents will also cause dust, pet dander, and debris to float around and affect the indoor air in your home. 

Try to clean your air vents at least once a month to ensure good indoor air quality. While dirty vents might not harm the system, they can certainly harm your health and well-being. 

6. Failing to Clear the Area Around Your Condenser

The condenser is located near your outdoor HVAC unit and many homeowners don’t think about its importance. Everything from dead leaves and branches to rocks and dirt can affect the condenser.

If something heavy falls onto or into the condenser it could cause serious damage. Not only will it lead to mechanical problems, but this important component is expensive to repair.

Try to ensure that the area around your outdoor condenser is clean and clear. Provide it with around five feet of clearance and remove dirt, rocks, and other debris whenever you see it to protect it from damage. 

Take Good Care of Your HVAC System

Keep these common HVAC maintenance mistakes in mind so you know what to do to avoid them. With a little proactive maintenance and regular inspections, your home’s HVAC system will continue to keep you and your family comfortable through every season.

If you live in the Sacramento area and need help with your home’s air conditioning or heating, be sure to contact the pros at American Energy Heat & Air to schedule an appointment today.