Why HVAC Maintenance Should Be Left For The Pros
If you are someone who insists on fixing and maintaining their home to save money, you might be considering the idea of repairing your HVAC system by yourself. If you untrained in HVAC, this type of home maintenance is a bad idea.
Even someone who is good with machinery will find that working on an HVAC system is tricky and can lead to further damage. Consequently, you may end up spending more money than you would have if you had simply left the job for the professionals.
HVAC Maintenance Albertson NY: DIY Vs. Hiring A Professional HVAC Technician
How do you know what you can do and what tasks you should leave for a professional HVAC contractor? Here is the rundown:
Two HVAC Maintenance Jobs You Can Do
1. Change The Air Filter On Your HVAC System
Not only is replacing the air filter something you can do, but it is also something you should frequently do. When an HVAC filter becomes clogged with dust and particles, the system has to work harder to heat or cool your home. Consequently, its efficiency decreases. If you ignore a dirty filter for too long, you may end up paying for unnecessary HVAC repairs.
A dirty air filter means lower air quality for your home, and it only gets worse over time. To keep your air clean and your system running correctly, check the air filter every month and replace the HVAC filter when necessary.
2. Clean Around The HVAC Unit
Keep the immediate area clear of dirt to ensure that the inside of your unit stays clean. Do a basic dusting, vacuuming and sweeping of the registers. Also, clear debris and vegetation within two feet of your outdoor unit. Make sure doorways and windows are properly sealed to keep your energy costs low and to prevent extra dust from getting in.
Leave The Rest For An HVAC Professional
You will save money by hiring an HVAC technician to inspect your system. Schedule an appointment once in the spring season, when you will need your air conditioning system. Likewise, schedule an appointment in the fall for your heating system. These visits take about an hour when your HVAC does not need a repair. A professional tech will check your entire system, including all connections to be sure it is working as it should. Every side of your system needs to be thoroughly examined and cleaned.
An A/C inspection should consist of:
- Testing and calibrating the system’s thermostat
- Measuring the amp and voltage of the blower
- Inspecting the bearing and the indoor and condenser coils
Monitoring the pressure of the refrigerant - Flushing the drain
- Inspecting to be sure of proper operation
A heating inspection should consist of:
- Inspecting and testing the ignition and exhaust systems
- Testing for carbon monoxide
- Testing the safety and controls
- Measuring the return and supply
- Cleaning and inspecting the burners and heat exchangeInspecting and performing needed adjustments on the fan belts
When it comes to your home HVAC system, you want to be sure the person doing the work has the proper training and tools necessary. HVAC techs are required to be certified, and they receive continuous training to stay updated on all the current requirements and techniques. A professional knows what they must look for and what they need to do. Of course, you can try to inspect your system by yourself. However, unless you are a certified tech, you will not know everything required to do the job correctly.
HVAC Equipment: Issues Regarding Safe Operation
Safety is the top priority when it comes to handling HVAC equipment. When you attempt to do HVAC installs and repairs by yourself, you are possibly putting you and your loved ones in a dangerous situation. Electric components and refrigerant should only be handled by a person who is qualified to handle such things. If wiring is not done correctly, a home fire could result.
The heating components can be even more dangerous. The majority of furnaces use fossil fuels, such as natural gas. Fossil fuels can cause a fire and one little slip can mean an explosion that causes major injury or death. Undetected cracks or improper installs can result in a carbon monoxide leak. Your home and family are too important to take a chance on a do-it-yourself HVAC job.
Conclusion
Let Hart Home Comfort take care of your HVAC system. Our experienced and NATE certified techs know how to identify and repair any problems with your heating and cooling system so that it runs as it should. Furthermore, all of the prices for our services are reasonable. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
When it is time to take a look at your heating or cooling system, give us a call and let us take care of it. Contact us now for a free in-home consultation!
Some of the areas we service include Albertson, Mineola, Roslyn Heights, Williston Park and these zip codes 11507, 11501, 11577, 11596 as well as all surrounding areas in Nassau County, New York.
For any questions about what Hart Home Comfort can do for you, give us a call today. Click here to contact us now or call us at (631) 667-3200 to find out more!