HVAC maintenance is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system's proper functioning, energy efficiency, and longevity. Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, improves indoor air quality, and lowers energy consumption. Don't be tempted to ignore the need for regular servicing and instead wait until the unit breaks down. Not only will you be left without heating or cooling while the unit is out of action, but you may also find yourself saddled with a hefty repair bill! It is much wiser to schedule HVAC maintenance a couple of times a year to keep on top of things. Your service technician will be able to spot developing problems with your unit and fix them before a breakdown occurs, saving you time and money! With that in mind, here are some essential HVAC maintenance tips to keep your unit in excellent shape:

1 - Replace Air Filters: It is important to regularly change or clean the air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage. Clogged filters reduce airflow, strain the system, and decrease efficiency. Taking care of a dirty air filter is an important part of HVAC maintenance since a clogged one could reduce the efficiency of your HVAC unit by as much as 15%, which is not only bad news for your indoor air quality but could also increase your energy bills!

2 - Check Thermostat Settings: Verify that your thermostat is functioning correctly and set to the appropriate temperatures for cooling and heating. If the room temperature does not match the number on the thermostat, it clearly indicates that something isn't working correctly, and you may want to arrange an HVAC maintenance call to look at the thermostat. If it needs to be replaced, consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat for better control and energy savings.

3 - Clean Ducts, Vents, and Registers: As part of your annual HVAC maintenance, we recommend that you clean the ducts, vents, and registers to prevent dust and debris buildup, which can obstruct airflow. Having your air ducts professionally cleaned can improve the quality of the air you are breathing and help to keep steady airflow running through your HVAC system. If you have never had them professionally cleaned, you might be shocked at how dirty they can get. Pollutants like tobacco, dust, pollen, mold, and even viruses can accumulate, so regular cleaning is much better for your health!

4 - Inspect and Clean Coils: Check and clean the evaporator and condenser coils annually. Dirty coils decrease efficiency and can lead to system malfunctions.

5 - Clear Condensate Drain Line: Ensure the condensate drain line is clear and free of blockages to prevent water leaks and potential water damage.

6 - Check Refrigerant Levels: If you have a central air conditioner, check the refrigerant levels regularly. Low refrigerant levels can indicate a leak and should be addressed by a professional HVAC maintenance technician.

7 - Inspect Electrical Components: You must regularly inspect electrical connections, capacitors, and motors for signs of wear or damage. Faulty electrical components can lead to system failures. Some of the most common issues are related to the wiring. Make sure you check for signs of corrosion, fraying, or disconnection. If the flow of power is disturbed, it can result in damage and can cause your unit to be overworked, leading to potential breakdowns.

8 - Inspect and Clean the Blower: The blower assembly is critical for proper airflow. Regularly inspect and clean it to ensure efficient operation. Over time, dirt will inevitably begin to build up on the blades. In order to make sure it continues to work unhindered, it is recommended that they are thoroughly cleaned approximately every 3 to 5 years. If it is not something you are comfortable doing, ask your technician to take a look for you during your next service call.

9 - Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance: It's a good idea to have a professional HVAC technician perform seasonal maintenance on your system. They can identify and address potential issues before they become significant problems. We recommend a service call and tune-up twice yearly, one for Fall/Winter and the other for Spring/Summer. Not only will this help prevent inconvenient breakdowns, but it also extends the life of your HVAC unit and can help cut down how much money you are spending on your energy bills by ensuring the HVAC system is working efficiently.

Remember, proper HVAC maintenance improves your HVAC system's performance and contributes to energy savings and a comfortable living environment. If you ever encounter issues beyond essential maintenance, feel free to contact a qualified HVAC technician for repairs.

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Gent Heating and Cooling provide heating and air conditioning for residential and commercial clients in Knoxville, Knox County, and the surrounding East Tennessee area. Over 20 Years experience. Customer Service is Our Top Priority. We strive to be on time, provide accurate estimates, and have most replacement products on our service vehicles.

Call 865-213-9202 or email office@genthvac.com

www.gentheatandcool.com