17 Easy HVAC and Plumbing Maintenance Tasks You Should be Doing (and when!)
According to Expert Home Report, you should service your HVAC system at least once a year. Furthermore, most HVAC experts recommend conducting comprehensive maintenance during the Fall—in preparation for Winter.
However, did you know you can conduct periodic HVAC maintenance all-year round? Below is an HVAC and plumbing maintenance guide highlighting the easiest maintenance tasks you should be doing—and when.
Spring and Summer AC Maintenance Tasks
Change air filters. Thankfully, changing your HVAC system's air filter is an easy DIY task. The recommended air filter replacement interval is every 1-3 months, depending on factors such as your home size.
Clean evaporator coils and condenser. You should clean your coils at least every three months since they can collect dirt and debris quickly. Regular coil and condenser cleaning reduce energy usage and utility costs.
Clear clogs and clean drain lines. DIY prevention can help avoid clogs by hindering algae growth. With the help of a vinegar and water solution every three months, you can keep your drain line clean.
Inspect air ducts for mold, dust, or debris. While conducting the inspection, you can also check the refrigerant charge for possible leaks.
Check the thermostat to ensure proper functioning. The thermostat is the central controlling feature in an HVAC system. A dysfunctional thermostat hinders you from setting your preferred temperature. Checking it periodically allows for quick repair during unexpected breakdowns.
Fall and Winter Maintenance Tasks
Check the ignition burner assembly. There are several reasons why a furnace ignitor is likely to fail, ranging from flame sensor problems to short circuits. Conduct regular checks at least every month.
Check and replace the filters every 30-90 days.
Inspect the heating elements and heat exchange since damage to these components could lead to carbon monoxide problems.
Check wiring and electrical connections monthly, or immediately notice unstable air conditioning.
Check the heat pump. You can conduct heat pump maintenance at least once a year. However, if the heat pump is the primary heating and cooling system instead of a supplemental one, you may want to conduct it at least twice a year. For safety purposes, experts advise leaving heat pump maintenance to professionals unless you are familiar with the technicalities involved.
Check for gas pressure. A sudden pressure drop may point to a pipeline leak. As such, regular checks allow you the convenience of calling an expert to fix the issue on time.
What About Plumbing Maintenance?
An effective general guideline for homeowners to schedule plumbing maintenance is once every couple of years for relatively new systems. However, the ideal period for older homes with old plumbing systems is at least twice a year.
Regular plumbing maintenance helps to avoid significant problems in sewer or water lines. Some of the easiest plumbing maintenance tasks you can do include:
Clearing drains. Clear your clogs at least weekly
Check for leaks and monitor your appliances seasonally (in warmer months).
In cooler months, shut off valves, disconnect hoses, and insulate pipes.
You can also schedule professional inspections throughout the year for varying systems.
Clean out lint traps on your washing machine.
Tips for Safe DIY Maintenance Tasks
DIY HVAC and plumbing maintenance can save you costs in professional labor. Conversely, it can also cost you a lot of damages if not properly conducted. Here are safety tips to follow when performing maintenance:
Switch off electrical connections
Turn off gas valves
Ensure the furnace is at room temperature
Have safety gear at all times.
More importantly, ensure you do what you can do to avoid property damage or injury.
Bottom Line
Are you looking for professional HVAC and plumbing assistance? Our readily available expert team at A R Engh can help you schedule maintenance or resulting repairs. Contact us for professional help with scheduling regular maintenance.
