HVAC Maintenance Checklist

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

HVAC Maintenance Checklist

The HVAC system makes a critical component of any home. It provides comfortable living to you and your family in summer and winter alike. If your HVAC system doesn’t get regular maintenance and inspection, chances are you are going to face sudden AC shutdown when you need cooling the most or malfunctioning heater during cold breezed winter. Such HVAC problems don’t just cause a great deal of frustration but also huge cost of maintenance or complete replacement. Even worse, certain HVAC problems may result in dangerous home emergency conditions like home fire, short circuit, water flooding, mold growth etc. Following this HVAC maintenance checklist on annual basis ensures that your system works at its peak and keeps you and your family safe and comfortable all through year, while considerably cutting down your energy bills.

Checking the HVAC System Indoor Unit

The indoor segment of your HVAC unit is based on a number of moving components that must work well in unity to deliver effective performance. Include the following in your checklist:

• Air Filters

The HVAC air filters must be vacuum cleaned monthly and replaced after every three months. This maintenance prevents dirt and dust to accumulate and clog the filters.

• Blower Assembly

This includes blower motor, blower wheel and housing. Vacuum clean these parts every month to ensure free airflow.

• Burner Assembly

Burner assembly usually needs occasional cleaning with a small vacuum attachment or brush.

• Shell

Clean the exterior of HVAC unit i.e. its shell, by proper dusting.

• Combustible material

Make sure that there is no fire hazard in the interior segment of HVAC unit.

• Combustion Blower Housing

This part can accumulate small debris and lint easily and must be cleaned regularly.

• Ductwork

Inspect ductwork leaks that cause air to escape outside. Especially check attics and basements. Sealing and insulating the ductwork helps prevent leakages and ensures optimal performance. Hire a pro for insulation.

• Electrical Components

These include electrical disconnect box that must be installed with care and have correct power rating and wire connections. Inspect the power rating and wiring on frequent basis.

• Flue System

Make sure that the furnace is attached properly. If there is corrosion, it needs replacement.

• Gas leaks

If your HVAC system is based on natural gas, inspecting gas leaks on a regular basis is mandatory to prevent potential safety hazards.

• Motor

If your HVAC system runs on an old motor, you should lubricate it regularly. Also check if fan’s belt is working properly or needs a replacement.

• Safety Devices

Your HVAC system comes with safety devices that should be in working condition.

Checking the HVAC System Outdoor Unit

• Base Pan

Base pan must be checked to ensure that its drains are not blocked.

• Cabinet

Cabinet housing should be free from leaves, debris and dirt.

• Coils

Coils should be checked to clean twigs, leaves and dirt that accumulate in coils and reduce their longevity and efficiency.

• Compressor & Tubing

The compressor along with its tubing should be check to locate damages. These components must operate within accurate levels of volt draw and amperage, for which properly working wire connections should be ensured.

• Fan Motor & Blades

Check blades and motors for damages. Just like indoor motor, the outdoor motor also needs timely lubrication. Also check belt tension.

• Refrigerant

The HVAC system’s refrigerant must operate with proper pressure and at correct level. Excessive refrigerant is a wastage while too little means system is not working efficiently.

Your HVAC System Can Save Money

In certain cases, the only way to save your money is to replace the system or its parts, as necessary. Go for energy-efficiency HVAC units and use refrigerants approved by Environmental Protection Agency, since these save up to $115 or more every year. Use a programmable thermostat that typically saves up to $180 a year.

Once you read this checklist, you can start the inspection. If you need a pro, call SERVPRO of East Meadow / Westbury for professional consultation and home restoration services.