Top 10 HVAC Maintenance Tips for a Well-Functioning Home

As a homeowner, it’s important to stay on top of regular maintenance for your HVAC system. Keeping up with regular check-ups and inspections can help prevent costly repairs down the line and keep your energy bills under control. But how do you ensure that your heating and cooling system remains in top condition all year long?

At B&J Heating & Air Conditioning, we recommend following these 10 HVAC maintenance tips to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently. Let’s dive into the essential steps you can take to maintain your HVAC system and keep your home comfortable year-round.

1. Change the Filters

The simplest and most cost-effective maintenance task you can perform at home is regularly changing your HVAC filters. Filters trap dust, hair, and other particles, preventing them from circulating throughout your home. Aim to change your filters every 30 to 90 days, depending on your home environment. Clean filters allow better airflow, improving your system’s efficiency. Look for filters with a MERV rating between seven and 13 for a balance between filtration ability and maximum airflow.

2. Perform Visual Inspections

Perform a monthly visual inspection of your HVAC system while changing the filter to catch any potential problems early on. Check the thermostat, inside and outside units, registers, and returns. Additionally, inspect the battery status on the thermostat, condensate system, filter access, cabinet door, flue system, registers for signs of mold, and ensure that the outdoor unit is level.

3. Eliminate Clutter Around the Indoor HVAC Unit

Clearing the area around your indoor HVAC unit not only improves air quality but also enhances safety. Clutter collects dust, reducing air circulation and system efficiency. Additionally, clutter can pose fire and trip hazards and hinder repairs and maintenance.

4. Keep the Outside Unit Clean and Clear

Regularly remove debris such as leaves, twigs, and grass clippings from the outdoor HVAC unit. This prevents blockages and allows proper airflow. Turn off the circuit breaker to the unit and hose it down if dirt starts to accumulate. Trim nearby plants to maintain at least a two-foot clearance around the unit.

5. Regulate Your Home Temperature

Optimize your HVAC system’s performance by operating it at comfortable temperatures and adjusting it while you’re away or asleep. Consider installing a programmable thermostat to automate temperature adjustments based on the time of day. Allowing your home to be cooler in winter and warmer in summer while you’re not there reduces system usage, energy consumption, and wear and tear.

6. Change the Batteries in Your Thermostat

If your thermostat is battery-powered, replace the batteries at least once a year to prevent malfunctions and ensure accurate temperature control.

7. Maintain the Carbon Monoxide Detector

If your home has a combustion-based heating system, such as natural gas or fuel oil, a carbon monoxide detector is essential for safety. Test the detector monthly to ensure it’s working correctly and replace it if needed. Change the batteries every six months to keep it functional.

8. Monitor Energy Bills

Pay attention to any sudden or gradual increases in energy consumption, especially if your usage remains unchanged. A spike in energy bills could indicate an issue with your HVAC system. Contact us to schedule a service visit, as dirty filters, duct leaks, low refrigerant, or failing parts may be the cause.

9. Consider Total Replacement

On average, HVAC systems in Florida last between 15 and 20 years. However, factors such as maintenance, system type, and brand can affect this timeline. As your system ages, energy efficiency decreases, and repairs become more frequent. Instead of waiting for a complete breakdown, plan ahead and replace your HVAC system on your own terms to avoid inconveniences and unexpected expenses.

10. Schedule Regular Preventative Maintenance

Consider booking two seasonal HVAC tune-ups each year—one in the spring for the air conditioning and another in the fall for the heating. During these checkups, our expert technicians will thoroughly service, inspect, and troubleshoot your system to ensure its efficiency and prevent breakdowns.

Contact us today to schedule your 56-point, residential preventative maintenance for just $39.95! Call (727) 281-8718.

Conclusion

Maintaining your HVAC system through regular inspections and maintenance tasks can save you money, improve energy efficiency, and extend the life of your system. By following these 10 hvac tips, you’ll ensure that your heating and cooling system operates optimally to keep your home comfortable year-round.

If you need help with any aspect of heating and ac repair or maintenance in Largo and nearby cities in Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, and the Upper Manatee and Lower Pasco areas, call B&J Heating and Air Conditioning today at (727) 281-8718 for peace of mind knowing that an experienced technician is taking care of all aspects of keeping up with preventative maintenance on one’s equipment.

Don’t overlook the importance of proactive HVAC maintenance—schedule a service appointment now so you can enjoy total comfort in every season!