Like many things in life, we often do not appreciate our HVAC systems until we are left without them. Nothing is more uncomfortable or inconvenient than desperately needing a repair or replacement in the sweltering heat of summer or the frigid cold of winter. Ideally, you want to avoid this situation by any means possible. Luckily, we have put together some HVAC maintenance tips to keep your system running strong, and hopefully save you money on costly (and inconvenient) repairs or replacements.
HVAC Maintenance Tip #1 – Filter Care
Keeping your air filter clean is very important when it comes to maintaining efficiency as well as the health of you and your family. A high quality filter in an accessible area will keep your system clean, protecting you from dust and other allergens building up in your air chase, where dust mites can breed and cause respiratory problems for the residents inside the house. A professional HVAC maintenance contractor can fit a filter grille that is properly sized for your unit.
HVAC Maintenance Tip #2 – Keeping Insects Out
If you have an outdoor HVAC unit, not only is it exposed to the elements – it is also exposed to the creatures living outside as well. Bugs are known to crawl inside of units and cause all sorts of HVAC maintenance issues. Ant colonies can be especially troublesome if they are prevalent in your area. Ants are drawn to the high voltage electric plates on the contactor, which is responsible for turning the condenser on and off. When the ants crawl between these plates, a circuit cannot be created, and then issues start. The best HVAC maintenance strategy for this is prevention – buy ant repellent and scatter it around your HVAC unit’s condenser pad. You should also check regularly for signs of insects in and around your AC system.
HVAC Maintenance Tip #3 – Inspect the Ventilator Belts
Under normal circumstances, a ventilator belt should last around a year – however, it is always good to occasionally check them to make sure everything is working properly. To perform this HVAC maintenance, simply turn off the power and reach in to inspect the state of the belt driven ventilator. When you start the motor up, if you notice a squealing coming from the belt, then it is definitely time for a replacement. Generally, on the outside of the belt you can find the size printed. From there, you can find most sizes at auto parts or hardware stores, though occasionally they will have to order your specific size.
Contact Galmiche & Sons for HVAC Maintenance and Inspection in St. Louis
These HVAC maintenance tips should help prevent unnecessary and costly repairs, but the best way to be sure that everything is on the up and up is to call a professional contractor such as Galmiche & Sons Heating & Cooling. Our professional heating & air conditioning technicians have the most up to date training and are always on top of current technology in the HVAC field. For HVAC maintenance and service throughout the St. Louis area, give us a call today at (314) 993-1110.
