HVAC Equipment Maintenance Checklist

You should have your system cleaned and checked by a qualified contractor every 6 months. But here is a simple HVAC equipment maintenance checklist that you can use to keep your HVAC system running smoothly, and cut back on your maintenance costs. Simple checks can also save you time and money. For example, make sure you check the run and start capacitor on air conditioning units as they can start to show wear and tear before finally giving up and ruining your day.

8 Simple Hacks to Prolong the Life of Your HVAC Equipment

Replace filter every 3 months

The filters can become clogged with dust and dirt very easily. You are far better off cleaning or replacing your HVAC filter at least every three months. If you replace it with a modern pleated filter, they tend to attract the dirt more and keep your air conditioning parts cleaner for longer.

Clean grills and vents to remove dirt and dust

During the year, leaves, grass cuttings, twigs, and other garden debris have a habit of finding the smallest of gaps in your systems vents and can over clog it. Clean out all vents, removing the offending objects, as this will make sure your HVAC unit does not inhale unwanted particles.

Clean area around unit

Always leave areas around your HVAC system clean and tidy. Sweep up leaves and dirt, leaving the breeze to swirl around your unit, allowing it to breathe freely in the hot summer months. Keeping itself cool like this will also prevent dirt clogging up the vents and your filters, to help prolong the life of your HVAC equipment.

Replace the battery in your home’s carbon monoxide detector

This is more of a general health and safety alarm for your home. It is a must do – at least every 12 months.

De-clog the air conditioner condenser drain

Tipping a mixture of water and bleach down the condenser drain to clean it will prevent a build-up of mold.

Straighten up your unit, make sure it is level and fixed firmly to the wall

Simple little tasks like this one should be obvious, but many people see a slightly unstable or wonky wall mounted air conditioning unit and keep putting off getting the tools out to simply straighten it up and stabilize it. Once done, it will be stronger and last longer.

Replace any damaged insulation

This should be a monthly inspection. Yet another simple task. Look at the pipework and insulation in and around your unit just to make sure there are no leaks or cracks. Replace anything that looks as if it may be about to split. This will save you a lot of money in the long run.

When the heating is due to go on, replace the humidifier wick filter and make sure the water is turned on

In the summer months you should switch off the water supply but turn it back on again when the cooler nights start coming in.