HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) systems are some of the best technologies you can have in your house. This all-in-one system maintains the temperature level throughout your home. However, this miracle system does need some routine maintenance to keep it running smoothly and safely. It’s essential to clean your HVAC on a regular basis. As it provides air throughout your home, dirt, dust, or even mold that is inside will be circulated throughout. The danger of black mold is multiplied in HVAC systems (as opposed to individual air conditioning and heating systems) because it is used for multiple temperatures. Heating and cooling through the same apparatus can create condensation, which can provide a happy home for dangerous mold.
It’s a good idea to clean your HVAC system once or twice a year when the seasons change and you switch from one temperature to another. As we head into winter, here are some tips for cleaning your HVAC system. If you have any doubts about your ability to clean your HVAC system safely yourself, however, or if you believe you need Albuquerque heating or cooling repairs, contact the professionals at Thompson Heating & Air Conditioning for help.
Shut off the power
Your HVAC system is comprised of two elements, one inside your home and one outside. When working on an HVAC system, you’ll need to shut off the power for safety. On the exterior unit, there should be a switch on it or nearby, and you should turn off the appropriate breaker indoors.
Clean the exterior unit
Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the fasteners securing the fan cage, then clean out any debris that has been caught inside.
Using a vacuum fitted with the brush attachment, remove any loose dirt from the fins, then gently spray with a hose to remove any built-up dirt and debris. Note that using a power washer to accomplish this step should be avoided as it can damage the fins.
Finally, straighten any fins that have been bent. This helps to increase your unit’s efficiency, which will in turn improve its functionality and lower your electricity bill.
Clean the interior unit
Find the evaporator coil on the interior unit. First, use a soft brush to clean off any loose dirt. To deep-clean lasting dirt, use a no-rinse coil cleanser, which you can find at a hardware or home improvement store. Clean out the drain pan, then pour a mixture of equal parts bleach and water down the drain to kill any bacteria that may be lingering.
If the bleach solution does not drain easily, you will need to unclog the evaporator drain. Follow the drain line to where it drains, then use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out anything clogging the pipe.
Finally, change the filter. This should be changed twice a year, in between heating/cooling seasons. After this, it’s safe to turn the power back on. Your HVAC system should be working great!
Properly maintaining your HVAC unit will not only keep your system running smoothly for longer, it can help you keep your energy bills lower and even benefit your family’s overall health! If you need to schedule an Albuquerque HVAC cleaning, maintenance, or even repair, just give our experts a call today!