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The waiting lists for air conditioning specialists may be unsettling and stressful during the summer. Verify that the refrigeration unit is receiving the right quantity of electricity if it is not functioning properly. Does it receive electricity from a wall outlet or another power source? It is usually, but not always, a small issue requiring professional troubleshooting. When gathering HVAC solutions, you may be able to gain more tips from sites like https://www.smoelair.com.au/ who provide straightforward HVAC solutions to homeowners online.  First determine the type of HVAC unit you have so you may troubleshoot. 

Types of Air Conditioners Used in Melbourne

There are several different HVAC systems that are used commonly in Melbourne. The most common being the central HVAC system, which uses forced air to heat or cool the home. The system has a large outdoor unit and pumps air through a ducted system in the home. 

Portable HVAC units are also used frequently. The machine can actually be moved from one room to another quite simply, as long as there is a return duct to the exterior of the home in each room. Typically, there is more than one unit inside a home, such as one in the living room, and then one in each of the bedrooms. 

Split Systems

Ductless split systems are a trending HVAC type and have been quite well received. A condenser and blower are mounted on the outside of the home, and the air is refrigerated via a line mounted outdoors as well. These systems aren’t as cheap as other types of HVACs, though. 

Once you’re certain of your type of HVAC, you may troubleshoot any issues you’re having with the unit. 

Issues with the fan control and the compressor

The compressor and fan may fail before they should if an air conditioner is used in a place that is excessively large for it. A unit which is too small for the area it is cooling will result in the same outcome. Because of this, expert HVAC installation is crucial. 

Another big worry is the corrosion of the cables and terminals used to connect the components. Because it occurs so frequently, rusting is a concern. It is strongly advised that a licensed professional verify each one of the device’s electrical connections before utilizing it. 

In addition to causing the unit to fail, corrosion in the terminals and wires poses a fire risk. Any electrical or wiring component that is not kept up to code (https://fireregulations.com.au/) could cause a fire in your house. The safety of the equipment is ensured by this kind of maintenance.

Creating a Racket

You should call an HVAC specialist if you have discovered that the HVAC creates an odd noise when it is turned on that sounds either screaming, grinding, or rasping. These noises are a warning in which the belts and bushings need to be repaired or replaced as quickly as feasible if they are present.

Several of these noises may be caused by deterioration that worsens over time, however they may also be caused by obstructed airways. As part of regular HVAC maintenance, a belt that is stretched out or worn out should be changed. This should be true for any motor or bearing lubrication performed by a professional in the HVAC industry. The system’s performance could suffer if you disregard these noises.

Inadequate upkeep

Filters and coils that are blocked with dirt cause the HVAC system to operate inefficiently and may even present a serious problem on their own. The compressor motor fan could have been damaged by any of these things. 

Infiltration of Condensation

The drain on the evaporator is kept clear by routinely cleaning the condensate pan. A blocked drain increases the likelihood that water may leak inside the structure and cause more damage. A mess will also be created by an HVAC leak brought on by blocked evaporators. This can result in further issues in your house, like the development of mould, depending on location the unit is positioned. That issue has the potential to be costly and harmful. When the issue is tiny and affordable, it is much simpler to solve. 

The Air Conditioning Unit Is not Pumping Cold Air

For several reasons, heating and cooling systems that are exceedingly noisy but do not produce cold air need to be evaluated. You must make sure the regulator is positioned in the “auto” setting by checking it twice. Though the breeze the ventilation system blows will not be cooled, the system can still function while it is running.

A qualified expert can test and identify the issue if your air conditioner is not blowing cold air throughout your house. It is risky to work on machinery, even those containing freon, so avoid attempting to fix the appliance yourself. 

Verify The Filter’s Operation And Free From Debris

Look for dirt, vegetation, weeds, insects, and other items on the outside unit that can be obstructing the coils or indicating that the device is dirty. This will enable you to assess whether the coils are blocked. Make sure there is not too much growth surrounding the concrete foundation that the unit is set on that would prevent air input to the unit. 

You could be required to cut back any shrubs that are obstructing the machine’s path, depending on the particulars of the circumstance. The key to effective operation is to guarantee that the machinery is not inhibited by growth. 

Verify the proper operation of the fan connected to the external device

Given that freon is harmful to the environment, it is important to look at the freon levels. Click here to read more on the effects on natural resources by freon. The appliance might not cool as effectively as it did in the past if there is a freon shortage. This can indicate that the apparatus needs to be fixed due to leakage.

Any of the aforementioned factors make it worthwhile to have the heating and cooling system serviced. If your appliance is more than 20 years old, it might be towards the conclusion of its time of use, and you should think about getting quotations to replace it. 

If you are unsure of the age of this unit, a qualified technician can examine it, tell you the age, and make any repairs that are required. Do not wait until the machine completely malfunctions to fix the problems. 

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An air conditioner (AC) can take the heat and humidity out of your home and replace it with refreshing cool air. While your AC can function well without requiring continuous service, neglecting it for too long can affect its performance.

Regular and proper AC maintenance will ensure the unit works at peak performance without continuous breakdowns. This can also help keep the electricity bills low and give you peace of mind. 

Below are some mistakes you should avoid making when carrying out your AC maintenance:

Ignoring Strange Noises

Each AC system makes a distinct noise when it’s operating. But strange noises coming from the system are a reason for concern and shouldn’t be ignored. They signify the presence of a critical issue that needs immediate attention. 

For instance, a buzzing sound from the system means that there are broken parts. Or it could be that the refrigerant is leaking. It can also mean that the unit’s electrical voltage is faulty. Meanwhile, a high-pitched squealing sound indicates that the belt that connects the motor to the blower is loose or has come off. 

Instead of ignoring these noises, confront them immediately by getting your AC technician to have a look to avert system malfunction or total breakdown.

Neglecting Professional Tune-Ups

An AC system goes through wear and tear and needs regular tune-ups to keep it at its top performance. Hence, it’s best to seek help from professionals with experience and knowledge to assess and fix AC issues. 

On the other hand, handling surface problems in your AC system is good and can even save you on costs. But believing those fixes are enough to keep your unit in overall good condition is a misconception.

Fixing your AC on your own will expose it to faster wear and tear. In addition, it’ll be prone to breakdowns, and its lifespan will be shortened. Meanwhile, professional tune-ups ensure that the system is clean and efficient. They also help minor problems to be nipped at the bud before they blossom into full-blown issues. 

Forgetting To Clean The Air Vents 

Having dusty air vents full of debris defeats the purpose of an air conditioner. Air vents collect debris, dust, pollen, and other pollutants over time. If not properly cleaned, the air conditioner will carry these things along the way when turned on. The condition of the air vents will partly determine the air quality that will circulate in your home.

Setting Very Low Temperatures

Contrary to popular belief, setting your thermostat at very low temperatures won’t cool your home faster on a hot day. Your space will cool down at the same rate regardless of the thermostat’s setting. Running your AC on a very low setting for a long time will only stress, overwork, and shorten the life of your system. 

And in case you forget to reset the temperature back to normal, the system will keep operating at low temperatures, leading to high power bills.

Using An Outdated AC

Regardless of how well you service and maintain your AC, you’ll eventually have to replace it. AC systems usually have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. An old AC will keep having recurring problems and run less efficiently. 

The cost of replacing your AC might seem high, but it’ll be more cost-effective in the long run compared with frequent repairs. Moreover, the spare parts of older ACs become unavailable with time when new models are introduced on the market. 

If your AC is old and has one issue after another, consider replacing it as soon as possible. Trying to fix it at this stage is a battle you’ll never win. Also, it can break down in extreme weather conditions. In addition, old ACs tend to impact negatively on power bills. 

Neglecting The Air Filters

An AC’s air filters are responsible for filtering off impurities from the air that circulate through the system and into your home. It works by trapping dust and other contaminants and preventing them from being transported into your home. Therefore, it’s necessary to clean your air filters.

Over time, the filters can get clogged with impurities. Neglecting to replace or clean your AC’s air filters regularly can be detrimental to health because of compromised air quality in your home. 

Conclusion

Dirty and un-serviced ACs can’t perform at their peak. They compromise the quality of the indoor air flow because they’re also less effective at filtering off dust, mold, and bacteria from the air. Therefore, regular AC maintenance is required to keep them in top shape. Furthermore, proper care should be taken to avoid the mistakes many people make.

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Air conditioners are integral to the fabric of modern society. From residential to commercial and industrial settings, AC is critical to our ongoing comfort, preservation, and day-to-day function. When these systems and unit’s breakdown, serious disruption or discomfort is likely to follow – particularly for those who reside in warm and tropical climates.

Arranging a simple air conditioning service is an excellent way to safeguard your heating and cooling. In the context of offices, agriculture, commercial kitchens, distribution centres and retail, faulty AC is not only inconvenient, but also threatens the viability of business.

Preventative Maintenance

Without knowing it, many of us tend to take our air conditioning for granted. Until something goes wrong, our heating and cooling systems remain low on the list of day-to-day priorities. The emergency repairs or replacement that follow ultimately lead to further costs and expenses down the line.

Regardless of the setting or style of heating and cooling, preventative maintenance can be a lifesaver. Professional air con technicians assess vital functional aspects and determine the appropriate solutions to any errors detected. Whether or not any serious issues are uncovered, this air conditioning service will at least give you peace of mind that everything is working well.

A good way to think about this is in the same vein as a car service, yet ultimately conducted for a fraction of the price.

Organising a Regular Service

Some underlying air con issues will only surface when it’s too late. Luckily, there are countless heating and cooling companies that offer regular preventative maintenance services. If you have already dealt with a business for emergency air con repairs, it may be worth contacting them again to set up a regular check-up/tune up. On the other hand, you can always reach out to a new service provider and arrange a free quote.

Preventative maintenance is particularly valuable for heating and cooling systems that operate in the ceiling, roof or below the floor and require professional assessment. This specifically applies to ducted, evaporate, and hydronic setups.

What Will This Process Involve?

Once a time and date are finalist, you can expect the HVAC technician to carry out the following:

– Thorough inspection of the unit (inside and out)

– Thermostat check

– Air filters cleaning/replacement

– Condensate pump clean

– Dust/debris removal

– Remote control check (if applicable)

Of course, each service may vary depending upon whether issues are detected or not.

Understand and Identify the Warning Signs

Whether or not you opt for a preventative air conditioning service, it is vital to recognize the various warning signs. Minor issues can quickly turn major and result in serious property damage. For business owners, it is vital to remain vigilant and promptly rectify any air conditioning issues as soon as they arise.

The most common warning signs to look out for include:

– Temperature issues

– Unusual or loud noises

– Skyrocketing power bills

– Leaks

– Low airflow

– Higher humidity

If you notice one or a combination of these signs, we recommend that you contact an HVAC company as soon as possible. 

Emergency Repairs

This leads us to one of the most obvious ways to address air conditioning problems – Emergency repairs. In the case that preventative maintenance could not be arranged, this is your primary solution. Sometimes unexpected weather events or other factors can lead to any one of the warning signs listed above.

Regardless of the root cause, an emergency air conditioning service should be organised as soon as the issue first appears. The longer you wait, the worse the problem is likely to get. In addition, addressing it early should save you money on labour costs.

The Issue with DIY Solutions

Unless the issue surrounds remote control batteries or miscellaneous external factors, DIY solutions are unlikely to achieve anything meaningful. Specific experience, know how, tools, and techniques are all required to conduct an effective air conditioning service. HVAC professionals also operate in accordance with safety regulations and guidelines, with good reason.

Of course, any air con systems that operate above the ceiling, on the roof or below the floor also represent significant logistical challenges – challenges that in the simplest terms, can only be met by trained professionals. 

Time Your Service

If you know that you only need air con over the summer or heating in the winter, time your service to occur in the period beforehand. This will help to prevent any unnecessary costs. In addition, your unit/system will be primed and ready to go throughout the peak season.

A scheduled air conditioning service is best arranged ahead of time. Remember that if the business is popular, they may not have any time slots available soon. The weeks leading up to summer is the most common period for air con servicing and hvac maintenance. Therefore, make sure to reach out to them early and open the lines of communication. You don’t want to miss out.

Heating and Cooling

Whether your setup is ducted, reverse cycle or split system, heating and cooling go together. For this reason, any of the topics listed above naturally apply to heating repairs, maintenance, and servicing. HVAC companies should be able to provide services for both sides of the equation and keep your property covered for all weather conditions.

From boiling hot summers to the bitter chill of winter, preventative maintenance and regular servicing is the best way to stay comfortable all-year round.

Reach Out to the Professionals

For any matters related to price, timing, quotes, and warranty, you can always reach out to your local heating and cooling specialists. Their staff should be able to provide you with a rundown of how the air conditioning service works, what’s involved and finally, arrange a suitable time.

Finding a trusted and reputable provider is a terrific way to ensure the ongoing condition of heating and cooling systems for many years to come. From the home to the workplace or the warehouse, HVAC professionals can provide regular assistance that saves you a bundle. 

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The air conditioning (AC) unit deserves special care and attention since it’s responsible for keeping your home a comfortable space throughout the year. It’s one of the most hardworking systems in your home! The air conditioning unit requires regular care and maintenance so that it’ll function efficiently at all times. Sadly, continuous use and aging will take a toll on them. If you want your AC unit to function optimally, here are several tips to keep it in good working condition for several years:

1. Find The Right Unit Size 

The suitable air conditioning unit depends on the cubic feet of space it needs to cool. Thus, such is a crucial factor when selecting a new AC unit. When one unit has a rating for a small area, it’s likely to strain to cool the air in large spaces. As a result, it’ll wear out rapidly and work harder to comply with the demands of the thermostat. Figuring out whether to purchase a small or large air conditioner can be challenging for some homeowners, but it’s crucial to get the right one. If you’re considering getting a packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) unit to save on the utility costs and boost energy efficiency, checking out sites like https://www.ptacinc.com/new-ptac-units-for-sale would greatly help.  

2. Cover The Windows With Curtains Or Blinds 

If you want your AC unit to function optimally, one of the easiest ways to help cool your home efficiently is to use window treatments, such as curtains or blinds, to block out the sun. As the sun rises, it contributes to the warmth within your home, forcing your air conditioner to work harder. Close the curtains and blinds during the morning and open them later to achieve the best cooling. 

3. Clean The Filters Regularly 

One way to ensure that your air conditioning system works optimally is to clean the filters regularly. It’s best to clean the filters every two weeks or, at least, once a month. Turn off the unit before removing the filters. When cleaning, you can either vacuum or wash them in sudsy water. Once the filters thoroughly dry up, place them back and turn on your unit.  

4. Inspect The Vents For Any Blockage 

Augment the efficiency by ensuring that the vents are free of blockage due to debris. As part of regular maintenance, inspect the vents around your home, usually on the floor or the ceiling. Eliminate debris in the indoor air supply vents. Remember that this task is vital to ensure a continuous flow of air throughout the system. Even if you regularly dust and vacuum, the vents can end up with blockage due to furniture, toys, rugs, or even blinds.

5. Clean The Coils  

One of the crucial elements to prioritize during maintenance is the coils. Both the evaporator coil and condenser coil in your air conditioning unit can end up with dirt and debris throughout the years. The presence of debris can diminish the airflow and cause the coil to become insulated, which significantly lowers its capability to soak up heat. These issues can make the cooling system inefficient in the long run, and, as a result, you’ll face a skyrocketing utility bill.  

6. Inspect The Fins 

Don’t forget to provide regular care to the outdoor unit during your routine maintenance. Check the fins for any buildup of debris and dirt. You can remove the exterior cover from the unit and eliminate any dirt or debris with a vacuum. Use a garden hose to get rid of leftover debris. Once the fins are free from any dirt or debris, carefully inspect for sections with bent fins since they can impede the airflow. Utilize a fin comb to straighten the fins.

7. Keep The Outdoor Unit Free Of Dirt And Debris  

When excess dirt and debris accumulate around the outdoor unit, it can result in issues during the summer.  

Make it a priority to remove leaves, branches, and other debris around the unit. Cut shrubs and tree branches to prevent them from blocking the flow of air to the unit. When you have vegetation nearby, make sure that it’s two feet away from all sides of the outdoor unit to prevent any blockage.  

8. Install A Programmable Thermostat 

If you want to ensure the efficient operation of your AC unit, a programmable thermostat will surely come in handy. You can regulate the temperature for different times and automatically lower the temperature when you need it the most. In the long run, it’ll help you save on your monthly utility bill and efficiently control the cooling in your home.  

9. Repair Any Leak

When there are leaks in your home, especially in the attic, under the doors, and around windows, it can significantly affect the efficiency of your AC unit. The cool air in your home will have exit points where they can move outside.  

10. Yearly Checkup 

One of the ideal ways to keep your air conditioning unit in good working order is to hire a professional. A professional will perform an inspection and deal with any problem along the way. Generally, a maintenance checkup will involve examining all the crucial elements to ensure that they’re all working optimally.  

Conclusion 

A comfortable home isn’t possible unless you have an efficient and functional air conditioning unit. If you want to keep your home comfortable and cool at all times, make the most out of these tips to keep your AC unit in good working order. When your AC unit is operating optimally, it’ll ensure a cool and comfortable home for years to come. 

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One of the most important aspect of a home is the HVAC system. Homeowners are trying their best to maintain it because the cost of getting it repaired can be pricey. Also, finding a good contractor who will fix it on the time you want and within the budget you have might not be easy to find. For these reasons, taking proper care of them is crucial. Regular maintenance increases the life span of your machine. It also helps lower the overall energy consumptions so you end up spending less on electric bills. Luckily, there are several HVAC maintenance tips designed to help you keep your unit in shape. You can see this link for some information too intownhvac.com. With that said, here are some of the tips you need to look at to properly maintain your unit.

Check the Filter

Air filters filter out dust and dirt in the household and can get clogged easily if left unchecked. This may lead to system failure. The more people your HVAC system serves including pets the more often your filters get clogged. This is why you need to check your filters monthly and ensure to replace them every 30 to 90 days. Changing the filters often enhances the efficiency of the unit, reduces electric costs, and the chances of repairs too. On the other hand, it prevents AC filters from freezing and thawing if too dirty causing water damage. You can also opt for reusable filters to minimize replacement cost, but clean it often with soapy water.

Annual Professional Check-ups

This type of checkup is done annually by an HVAC technician on top of the regularly scheduled maintenance. The technician examines the various parts of the system and ensures that they are working properly. The inspection includes cleaning of the coils, checking the refrigerant level, cleaning the drain pipes, checking and replacing the air filters, and ensuring the fan is working accordingly. However, this kind of inspection varies from one technician to another. Getting your machine serviced by a professional means that all the gears will be inspected, cleaned, and repaired when need be. It also ensures the system does not break down unexpectedly when you need it the most.

Control the Thermostat

Controlling your thermostat is one of the most significant ways of cutting your heating expenses. In this case, a programmed thermostat will be the best option since you can adjust it to your home requirements. For instance, you can program it to automatically increase the room temperature during winter and lower it when it’s hot. A programmed thermostat is normally pre-programmed to suit a standard household, so you should look at the settings keenly and adjust them as per the temperature you need. If by any chance you notice that the thermostat does not work as programed, then it could be faulty. You can consider a speedy remedy to avoid high repair expenses on the entire HVAC components.

Schedule a Ductwork Inspection

Ducts are meant to enhance the quality of air flowing into your home. However, over time they may accumulate huge layers of dirt which may block the free-flow of conditioned air. This may burden and also reduce the longevity of your unit. Similarly, ducts can harbor several allergens like dust mites, dander, dust, and even pet hairs which could be a nuisance especially to those suffering from respiratory diseases. This is why duct inspection should be done annually to keep your system healthy and to enhance the equality of the indoor air.

Get a Smart AC Controller & Thermostat

Technology offers various apps like Google Home and Alexa which can be used to operate and control the AC. All you need is to connect the AC and the thermostat controller to the App. This smart controller can detect a problem in the HVAC for instance, if the temperature is not right or when there is poor quality air. Furthermore, unlike programmed thermostat, this smart controller can automatically activate and deactivate the system depending on the current needs.

Clean the Vents

Cleaning the vents regularly prevents dirt and dust from building up and blocking airflow. When air is blocked from flowing freely in and out of the HVAC system, it may cause the system to heat up which can damage the equipment. Cleaning the vents is an important task that should be carried out monthly to make sure that the airflow is not weak.

Clean the Outside Unit

This is one of the tips that most people tend to ignore. Cleaning up the inside of the unit is as important as cleaning the inside. This prevents dirt from covering the system which can weaken it with time. You can wash it off using a gentle garden hose and wipe it dry with a clean cloth. You can also do a weekly inspection of the unit to ensure that it is free from twigs, leaves, or cut back shrubs that are at least three feet tall.

Have a Maintenance Plan

Having a well-outlined maintenance plan ensures you service the unit promptly. You can do this by creating a remainder on your E-calendar or pin the schedule somewhere that you can easily access it. With this, you will never miss out on the advantages of having your machine services which include reduced maintenance cost. Click here to see a few more maintenance tips.

Conclusion

There are several straightforward reasons why HVAC maintenance is important. The main one being the elimination of the unnecessary cost of repair. Regular checkups guarantee you the continuous operation of your machines throughout the year. To make sure that everything is properly maintained, consider hiring a professional periodically to handle the inspection. Plus, incorporate smart devices to lessen the burden on your unit.

The benefits that air conditioners provide us during the summer are, for some, reasons enough to buy and install this system. Manufacturers realized that people were buying these devices en masse, and decided to upgrade them by introducing a heating mode. It means that you can also use these devices in winter when the temperatures are low. Only one click to the remote control switches cooling mode to heating mode when the temperature drops. Then the indoor appliance is in charge of warming up the room. But the outdoor unit will do most of the job. This part of the system is the one that needs to convert the air from cold to warm and heat the rooms.

However, even if you do not use your AC during the winter, it does not mean that you should forget about it until next summer. Professionals from Burnaby AC installation explain that regular AC maintenance is a must; it will only vary depending on whether the unit is running at low temperatures or not. If you prepare the air-conditioner, especially its outdoor part, for a cold in time, you will prevent potential breakdowns and costs. Due to humidity and substantial temperature differences between day and night, the outdoor unit can corrode. Also, heavy snowfall can physically damage your AC.

Clear the Area Around AC

The area around the outdoor AC unit should be clean and free of obstructions so that air can flow freely. Especially during the winter, when snow can entirely cover the condenser. Even if you don’t use the AC in winter, this doesn’t mean that you should let the leaves, dirt, and snow all over it. On the contrary, you should regularly inspect the entire house on cold days, including the cooling and heating system and AC unit. Remove snowdrifts, ice deposits, freezers, fallen leaves and broken branches, and anything else that could physically damage the condenser unit. Check our this article to find out how to remove snow and ice from outdoor unit.

If an outdoor AC unit is off during the winter, cover it when the temperatures are extremely low. If you do not have a condenser shelter, you can purchase specialized covers made of airproof material. Do not use plastic, nylon, or cardboard to cover the AC, and especially do not put anything heavy on the appliance itself, such as bricks or boards.

Clean the Unit from the Inside

The air conditioner is sucking the air, which cools/heats as it passes through the converter and filter. But besides filters, dirt and dust particles retain inside the condenser unit, on the fan and inverter. Before cold days, you have to clean the AC thoroughly. You can use some tips for essential air conditioner cleaning from this link. Remove all debris from the inside of the outdoor unit. Dust, dirt, and leaves can disturb and slow down the operation of the blower. If you heat the house with an AC unit in winter, it will not be able to warm the air. Unplug the appliance, open it, and remove the grill. Remove the blower and vacuum it. Do the same with the unit box. Use a soft brush vacuum attachment to collect dirt. Then wipe both condenser unit and fan with a slightly damp cloth to pick up the fine dust.

Change Air Filter

Filters in air conditioners have multiple uses. Among other things, they purify the air and collect dust, while in some models, these cleaners can destroy bacteria and eliminate odors from rooms. But every filter becomes dirty, as the dirt collects at an incredible speed. Before each winter, it is recommended to change the entire filtration system. Timely replacement of this part will preserve other system components, and will significantly improve the quality of the air inside your home.

Before the temperature drops, it is essential to prepare your home for the colder days. That reduces the chance of breakdowns and additional difficulties; you assume that, in winter, every problem is more challenging to solve due to the cold and snowfall. So, tuck the air conditioner in and wait for the winter without worry.

If you let your air conditioner stay inactive until spring, some problems might develop during the winter. In order to protect an HVAC system throughout the coldest months, you’ll need a winter maintenance plan, and you can get started by using this seasonal air conditioning maintenance guide.

Turn off the Outdoor Air Conditioning Unit’s Power Supply

All air conditioning units have a power circuit that’s mounted on a small box. This box is usually attached to a pole outside. Inside the box, there is a switch that controls power flow to the air conditioner. By flipping this switch, you’ll prevent electrical shock or electrocution whenever you implement maintenance procedures following a winter storm.

Clean the Air Conditioner

In most communities, HVAC systems clog and break down in the spring when homeowners fail to implement cleaning procedures outdoors to maintain important air conditioning components in the winter. Winter is a great time to clean out an air conditioner. For this job, you’ll need a broom that can reach debris, twigs, and leaves inside and around the HVAC unit. If your equipment is installed near trees, wash off any dirt or bird droppings on the exterior housing, and give the material time to air dry.

Inspect the Air Conditioner

While you’re cleaning your air conditioner, you should conduct an inspection as well. A basic inspection will help you find minor issues before they develop into major problems if you look in the right places.

Begin the inspection by scanning the casing for rust and cracks. The casting shouldn’t have any irregularities that could lead to leaks. Then, thoroughly inspect the seals; they should be tight without any gaps. If you find areas that are rusty or damaged, let a licensed HVAC technician service your equipment.

Cover the Equipment

A waterproof cover protects an air conditioner on cold winter days. If you put a plastic or vinyl cover on your unit, it will reflect debris, and on the coldest days, it will prevent cracking. You can buy a cover that’s designed for an air conditioner at a hardware store. If this isn’t an option, you could protect the equipment with a large tarp.

Use Extra Insulation

When the temperature drops dramatically in the winter, any exposed wiring and pipes could freeze. To keep frost off of these components, cover everything with a foam pipe cover. This type of cover could shift while it’s covering pipe, so you may need to secure it in place with a piece of duct tape. Without thick insulation, your pipes will crack during a cold winter night if the coolant freezes. Insulation prevents freezing inside of pipes by creating a warm barrier that blocks arctic air.

Usage Strategies for Winter Weather

In many southern states and in some cities along the east coast, many people continue to use your HVAC equipment near the end of the year because winters in these regions aren’t always cold. If you ever need to activate your air conditioner on a muggy winter day or night, you’ll need to:

Change the Filter: Throughout the spring and summer, you should already have a schedule for replacing your HVAC filters. In the winter, you’ll need to tweak this schedule. During occasional winter use, an air conditioner’s filter won’t gather a lot of debris, so you can operate your HVAC system longer without swapping out the filters often. You should change the filter in 90 days if you will only turn o your air conditioner once a week throughout the winter. If you will use your air conditioner twice a week, change the filter in about four months.

Adjust the Thermostat: In the winter, you should change your thermostat’s settings to manual. The manual mode will give you convenient opportunities to adjust the temperature indoors according to the weather outdoors. Also, by controlling the cycles manually, you can switch from the air conditioner to regular fans when you need to save energy while cooling off during the winter.

Common Winter Problems

In the winter, an air conditioning system can develop several problems that you may notice when you power up the equipment to cool your home in the spring. If you take care of your HVAC system in the winter, you may still have to deal with some minor operational problems in the spring. The big benefit is that winter-related problems are easy to resolve.

Whenever you hear a loud noise while your air conditioner runs in early spring, the fan motor or blower motor has a problem. You can stop the distracting sounds during cooling cycles by repairing or replacing the defective hardware. If your air conditioner doesn’t start in the spring, the thermostat may have malfunctioned. This problem occurs when the wire that connects the thermostat to the AC system is damaged. Because electrical wiring is complicated, this is a job for a licensed HVAC repair technician.

Following a long winter, many homeowners turn on their air conditioners and feel slightly cold air. Low refrigerant causes this problem, and it could happen after you top off the refrigerant in the summer. To keep refrigerant inside the tank, let an HVAC technician inspect the chamber for leaks before and after winter arrives. These strategies can help you take care of your system in the winter. However, preventative maintenance is the best defence. If you service your equipment twice a year, you’ll keep everything in optimum condition.

Photo: HH Hovey

Can you imagine driving your car for 50,000 miles and never changing the oil? Neither can I – you need to ensure that your car is always in tip-top shape. The same holds true for your HVAC/furnace system. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure that your furnace keeps working and at peak performance. If you haven’t checked out our article on “4 Important Things to Check Before Winter Takes Hold“, you might want to read that first before reading on. With some precautions, a few regular check ups on your HVAC system, and some expert maintenance you can easily keep your system running smoothly to avoid an unnecessary break down in the middle of a cold winter or a scorching summer.

Use A Certified Technician

Regular maintenance of your HVAC system is best done by certified technicians. Many reputable companies not only specialize in air conditioning repair, they are certified to do regular maintenance on your HVAC unit.

Get it Fixed Right, the First Time

I always tell my readers to pay once and have the job done the right way, the first time. Hire a professional to install your furnace and maintain it for a hassle free HVAC system. Hire a professional to do your HVAC maintenance decreases the likelihood that something will get missed. Most companies have been around for so long that something a homeowner might miss is blatantly obvious to a trained technician. Chances are they have heard it all and know exactly how to fix it.

Save Money in the Long Run

Sure, you could try maintaining you HVAC on your own, but one mistake could end up costing you a lot of money. Consequently, any savings from doing it yourself are thrown out the window once you bring in someone to repair your HVAC. Also keep in mind that having a smooth running furnace can actually waste less energy and cut your winter heating bills in half.

Photo: Master Tech Plumbing

Keep Your Warranty 

For many HVAC providers, doing your own maintenance or not doing regular checks at all, will void your HVAC’s warranty. Ensure you keep all records of maintenance (invoices, work order, etc.). In the case of a breakdown, you can show the provider that you have done regular maintenance and that a defect is likely what is causing the breakdown.

Why You Need to Maintain Your HVAC System Regularly

Keeps Your Air Clean and Safe

Without proper maintenance, even a small problem can cause leaks or rising carbon monoxide level in your home. Regular cleaning can also prevent other dangerous occurrences such as mould. Thankfully, mould is an issue that is easily solved provided you get rid of it right away.

Ensures Proper Airflow

Airflow that is restricted, limited, or lost—20 to 30 percent of air passing through improperly sealed ducts is lost —in any way can put a strain on your HVAC system that will lead to breakdowns, costly repairs, and a short lifespan.

Photo: The Toronto Star

Improves Efficiency

Your HVAC system will run more efficiently if you ensure you keep up the maintenance. Not only will an overworked HVAC system breakdown more often, it will expend more energy increasing the damage done to you local and global environment.

Saves you Money

If you maintain your HVAC or furnace regularly, you will avoid high energy bills and costly repairs and replacements. Potentially, you could save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars.

Keeps you Warm or Cool

The worst possible time for a breakdown of your HVAC system is when you need it most, like in the middle of a heatwave or the dead of winter. Keep yourself and those you love comfortable.

Photo: Heartland Heating and Air 

What You Can do to Ensure Peak Performance 

There are some simple, but important tasks that you can do to ensure you HVAC is always running at peak performance and as safely as possible:

·  Do not store flammable items next to your furnace.

·  Dust outside of your furnace regularly.

·  Change your filter monthly, especially if you have allergies or
pets.

·  Install and regularly test a carbon monoxide detector.

·  Do not set your thermostat too high or too low.

Remember, it is vital to keep your HVAC maintained to ensure peak performance. The last thing you need is for it break down in the middle of the winter, possibly costing you thousands of dollars to repair or replace. Spending a little bit of time and money towards regular tune-ups will keep you safe and save you money in the long run.