What Your HVAC Technician Does and What You Can Do

Sweltering-hot summers and bone-chilling winters make well-functioning HVAC systems integral to your quality of life in Livingston County, IL. Preventive HVAC maintenance helps ensure your equipment works well no matter what kind of weather comes your way. Don’t hesitate to enlist help from a highly trained professional. Here’s a sample of what a skilled HVAC technician does during a maintenance call and what you can handle on your own.

Keep the Filter Clean

Experts cite regular filter changes as the most important task you can do to optimize system efficiency. The reason is simple. A clogged or dirty filter obstructs the airflow, which forces your HVAC systems to run for longer cycles to keep you comfortable. That drives up your energy bills and causes undue wear and tear to the equipment. You can lower your system’s energy usage by up to 15% by changing your HVAC filter whenever it appears dirty.

If you’re thinking about upgrading your filter to improve indoor air quality, check with your technician first. High-density filters can also impede airflow. Your trusted professional can help you select a product that helps everyone breathe easier without sending your energy bills sky-high.

Check the Condensate Line

Air conditioners keep you cool through the refrigeration process of creating and pumping cold air inside but also by moving warm air outdoors. Warm air holds more water vapor than cool air, so moisture also gets pulled from the air. It exits your home through a pipe known as a condensate line. Make it a point to check the line now and then during the warm-weather season to ensure it’s not clogged. A blocked line will cause the condensate to back up and damage indoor components.

If inserting a stiff wire into the line doesn’t release the clog, or extracting it with a shop vac, turn off the AC and call in the pros. A qualified HVAC technician will resolve the problem and inspect the indoor equipment to verify everything’s operating properly.

Clean the Vents

Forced-air HVAC systems require balanced airflow to operate as effectively and efficiently as possible. While it’s easy not to give them a second thought, the system’s supply and return registers need routine cleaning. The grill of metal fins on the system’s outdoor unit will also benefit from your attention. Establishing a 2-foot to 3-foot perimeter around the unit will help keep debris like leaves and pine needles from clogging the fins. You’ll need to schedule an HVAC tune-up to clean the other parts of your heating and cooling systems.

Considering that dirt and neglect are the primary causes of HVAC system failure, good housekeeping and proactive maintenance go a long way towards safeguarding your comfort. A qualified technician will inspect, clean and calibrate every component for optimal efficiency and performance.

Save Money with Annual HVAC Tune-ups

Heating and cooling accounts for more than half of household energy bills in Illinois. Signing up for preventive maintenance with Popejoy Plumbing, Heating, Electric and Geothermal can greatly reduce those costs. Our Homeowner Peace of Mind Agreement entitles you to annual professional checkups for your heating and air conditioning systems. We’ll ensure everything operates as efficiently as possible, from the electrical and mechanical components to the ventilation and control systems. We’re not satisfied until we’re certain you’ll stay comfortable indoors without busting your budget.

The energy savings don’t stop there. Well-maintained HVAC equipment also lasts longer and needs fewer repairs than neglected systems. Most importantly, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your HVAC systems will keep everyone comfortable when you most need them.

At Popejoy Plumbing, Heating, Electric and Geothermal, we’re proud to provide services that enhance the quality of your life in Livingston County, IL. We’re pleased to provide our maintenance plan members with priority service, even on the coldest or hottest day of the year. You’ll also receive a 10% discount on all system-related work. For more information, check out our HVAC Maintenance section or call us today.