Throughout the time we’ve served clients in Woodbridge, Virginia, we’ve noticied some people like to handle HVAC maintenance on their own — or at least make an effort to tackle it. Unfortunately, the DIY approach often ends up becoming more expensive than expected because of unforeseen hassles. It can also be dangerous. There are some HVAC maintenance tasks you can perform on your own, while others are best left to the pros.
What to Handle Independently: Changing Your Air Filter
If you want to do some HVAC maintenance yourself, consider reading our blog as a starting point. It covers many of the topics often discussed with clients and is written in straightforward language.
You should change your air filters on a regular basis. Otherwise, your home’s air quality will gradually decrease as the HVAC system’s efficiency decreases over time.
Switching out an air filter is a simple process. Refer to the filter’s packaging for guidelines about how often to change it. Generally, though, changing the air filter every three months is sufficient for most homes. Consider changing yours more often if you have pets or if members of your household have allergies.
You can also clean the outside of air vents and the area around your main heating or cooling system. Use a soft cloth, and avoid harsh cleansing agents.
Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance for All Other Tasks
Virginia can experience hot, humid summers and cold, icy winters. Those realities mean it’s typically very inconvenient if your HVAC system malfunctions during a period of extreme temperatures. However, it’s essential to resist the urge to try to fix the problem yourself or try to diagnose what’s causing it. Contact an HVAC professional instead.
In addition, seek assistance when putting in a new HVAC unit or doing any task that requires wiring. Having a lack of experience while doing those things could damage the system or put your safety at risk.
At Brennan’s Heating and Air Conditioning, you’ll find a team of HVAC maintenance experts to help you. Contact us today at 703-783-0145 for expert assistance.
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