How Fairfax Homeowners Can Lengthen the Life of Their HVAC Systems

The Fairfax area’s unpredictable and sometimes severe weather is hard on your heating and cooling equipment. Investing a little time in routine care can lengthen the life of an HVAC system and help you avoid expensive, time-consuming repairs.

Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your HVAC Unit

1. Keep the filters clean – Clogged filters are the most common cause of HVAC system malfunctions and even complete breakdowns. A dirty filter makes it hard for air to move through the system. Poor airflow can cause problems with the motor, the A/C evaporator coil and the A/C compressor. It also reduces your system’s energy efficiency. Check your filter manufacturer’s instructions to find out how often you should change the air filter. In most cases, the filters should be changed every one to three months, but higher-efficiency filters can last longer. Inspecting the filter every month for debris buildup will ensure you don’t leave a clogged filter in too long.
2. Clean your outdoor unitair conditioner’s outdoor unit collects dirt, leaves, grass clippings and other debris that interfere with airflow. Just like a clogged filter, a clogged outdoor unit impairs your system’s energy efficiency and places damaging strain on the components. Periodically brush debris from the unit’s exterior and once a year use a garden hose to spray down the grill from the inside out.
3. Maintain good airflow – Keep your air registers and vents clean by periodically removing the grills, wiping them down, and vacuuming out the inside of the duct. Keep as many of your air registers open as possible. Closing registers can create excess pressure in your system.
4. Allow for good drainage – Your A/C’s condensate drain gradually accumulates sludge that can form a blockage and cause water to back up into your home. You can use a wet-vac to remove sludge from the outside end of the drain and a weak bleach solution to clean the indoor drain pan. Your high-efficiency furnace’s drain line should also be checked for sludge buildup.

Regular professional maintenance helps lengthen the life of an HVAC system. If yours could use some care, contact us at Brennan’s Heating & Air in the Fairfax area.