HVAC Tips and Tricks for New Homeowners
As a new homeowner, it can be difficult to know how to properly care for your HVAC system. It is important to understand the basics of hvac maintenance and repair in order to ensure that your system is running efficiently and reliably. Here are some tips and tricks for new homeowners to help get you started:
Understand Your HVAC Unit
It is essential that you familiarize yourself with the components of your hvac unit. Learn about the different parts, such as the compressor, condenser, evaporator coil, ductwork, and thermostat. Understanding how these components work together will help you diagnose any potential issues more easily.
DIY Maintenance
Performing regular DIY maintenance on your HVAC system can help keep it running smoothly. Change out air filters regularly, clean off any dust or debris from vents or coils, check refrigerant levels, and inspect electrical connections. These simple tasks can save you money on repairs in the long run.
Joining Northern Services Preferred Customer Maintenance Program
Consider joining Northern Services Preferred Customer Maintenance Program for added peace of mind when it comes to maintaining your HVAC system. This program includes discounts on service calls and priority scheduling for emergency repairs.
HVAC Tips and Tricks
There are many helpful tips and tricks that can help you keep your HVAC system running smoothly. Make sure to regularly check air filters and replace them every three months or as needed; use a programmable thermostat to control energy usage; seal any leaks around windows or doors; schedule regular tune-ups with an experienced technician; and always follow manufacturer’s instructions when performing maintenance on your unit.
Understand Your HVAC Unit
Having a basic understanding of your home’s HVAC system is essential to ensure its proper functioning and longevity. An HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is responsible for controlling the temperature and air quality within your home. It consists of several components that work together to provide comfortable living conditions.
Types of HVAC Systems
There are two main types of HVAC systems: central air conditioners and heat pumps. Central air conditioners cool the entire house by circulating air through a series of ducts, while heat pumps both heat and cool the house by transferring warm or cool air from one area to another. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand which one is best suited for your particular needs.
Components of an HVAC System
The components of an HVAC system include the furnace, evaporator coil, condenser coil, compressor, blower motor, thermostat, humidifier/dehumidifier, air filter, and ductwork. The furnace is the main source of heat in a home while the evaporator coil absorbs heat from the indoor air and transfers it to the condenser coil outside. The compressor then circulates refrigerant through these coils to transfer warmth or coolness throughout the house as needed. The blower motor helps move the warmed or cooled air from one area to another while the thermostat regulates temperature settings inside the home. A humidifier/dehumidifier helps maintain a comfortable humidity level inside while an air filter traps dust and other airborne particles from entering into your breathing space. Lastly, ductwork carries conditioned air throughout your home for efficient heating and cooling.
Importance of Proper Maintenance
Proper maintenance of an HVAC system is essential for optimal efficiency and performance. Regularly changing filters helps keep dust levels low while regularly checking for any potential leaks or damage can help prevent costly repairs down the line. Additionally, having regular tune-ups performed on your unit can help ensure that all components are working properly and efficiently. This will not only extend its lifespan but also save you money on energy costs in the long run.
DIY Maintenance
As a new homeowner, you may be tempted to try to do your own maintenance on your hvac system. While this can save you money in the short term, it’s important to understand that there are some tasks that should only be done by a professional.
Checking and Replacing Air Filters
The easiest and most important task you can do yourself is check and replace air filters. You should check the filter every month, and replace it if it looks dirty or clogged. If you have pets or allergies, you may need to change the filter more often. Make sure that you use the same size and type of filter as the one currently in your unit.
Cleaning Coils
Your unit’s evaporator and condenser coils should be cleaned regularly to keep your unit running efficiently. Before cleaning, make sure to turn off the power to your unit at the breaker box. Then use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner attachment to clean away dirt and debris from both coils. You can also use an outdoor hose to rinse away any remaining dirt or debris from the coils.
Cleaning Drains
If your unit has a condensate drain line, it will need to be cleaned periodically so water doesn’t back up into your home. To clean the drain line, first locate the access point for the line (usually located near your furnace). Then use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out any water or debris that is blocking the drain line. You can also pour a cup of bleach down the drain line once it has been cleared of any blockages.
Removing Debris from Unit Exterior
Your unit’s exterior should also be kept free of debris such as leaves, grass clippings and dirt. Remove these items using a broom or leaf blower, making sure not to damage any of the components on the outside of your unit.
While there are some basic maintenance tasks that you can do yourself, it’s important to remember that more complex repairs should always be left to professionals who have experience with HVAC systems.
Preventative Maintenance
The program offers preventative maintenance services that can help to keep your HVAC unit running smoothly and efficiently. These services include regular inspections, cleaning, and minor repairs as needed. The program also provides recommendations for any additional repairs or upgrades that may be necessary.
Discounts
Members of the Preferred Customer Maintenance Program will receive discounts on parts and labor for any repair work that needs to be done on their HVAC unit. In addition, they will receive discounts on the purchase of new units and other related products.
Emergency Services
If there is an emergency with your HVAC unit, the Preferred Customer Maintenance Program will provide 24-hour emergency services so that you can get the help you need quickly. This can help to minimize any disruption caused by a malfunctioning unit.
Peace of Mind
By joining the preferred customer maintenance program, you can be sure that your HVAC unit is being taken care of properly and regularly maintained. This peace of mind can be invaluable for busy homeowners who don’t have time to manage their own maintenance tasks or don’t feel comfortable doing them themselves.
Overall, joining the Northern Services preferred customer maintenance program is a great way for homeowners to ensure that their HVAC units are running optimally all year round. With the discounts and emergency services available through this program, it can save homeowners both time and money in the long run.
HVAC Tips and Tricks
When it comes to HVAC maintenance, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you save time, money, and energy. Here are some of the best hvac tips and tricks for new homeowners:
Change Your Filter Regularly
Changing your air filter regularly is one of the most important things you can do for your HVAC system. Dirty filters can reduce airflow, cause your system to work harder, and lead to higher energy bills. It’s recommended that you change your filter at least once every three months.
Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Having a professional inspect your system annually is the best way to ensure it’s running efficiently and effectively. During these inspections, an HVAC technician will check all of the components of your system to make sure they’re in good working order.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat is another great way to save energy and money on your heating and cooling costs. By setting different temperatures throughout the day, you can ensure that your home is comfortable when you need it while also reducing energy usage when you don’t.
Keep Vents Unobstructed
Make sure that all of the vents in your home are unobstructed by furniture or curtains so that air can flow freely throughout the space. Blocked vents can reduce airflow and cause your system to work harder than necessary.
Check for Leaks Around Windows & Doors
If you notice any drafts or leaks around windows or doors, seal them up with weatherstripping or caulk to prevent air from escaping outside. This will help keep your home more comfortable while also improving energy efficiency.
By following these simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that your HVAC system runs smoothly and efficiently all year long!
