Top HVAC Maintenance Tips To Prepare Your Home For Winter
Winter is Coming! So, it's important to make sure your HVAC system is ready to battle the cool weather. No one wants to shiver inside when it's crisp outside, right?
Six HVAC Maintenance Tips To Prepare Home For Winter
A little pre-winter TLC for your HVAC system can go a long way. Not only will it keep you comfortable all season long, but it can also save you money on your energy bills and improve the air quality in your home.
Here are some tips to get your HVAC system winter-ready:
1. Breathe Easy with Clean Air Filters
HVAC system relies on clean air filters to function optimally. Clogged filters struggle to pass air and work harder, ultimately using more energy and potentially leading to breakdowns.
To avoid this scenario, cleaning or replacing your air filters monthly during peak seasons (winter and summer) is necessary. This simple step ensures smooth airflow, improves efficiency, and helps you breathe easier with cleaner air circulating in your home.
Need a refresher on air filters? The Australian Government's YourHome provides a handy guide on different filter types and how to replace them.
2. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Think of a professional HVAC inspection as your system's annual check-up. Just like you wouldn't ignore a doctor's recommendation, scheduling a professional inspection before winter can save you headaches (and money) down the track.
An HVAC technician can identify any potential issues beneath the surface, preventing costly breakdowns and ensuring your system is operating safely and efficiently. Remember, qualified technicians in Australia stick to strict safety standards set by government regulations, so you can be confident they'll get the job done right.
Looking for qualified HVAC technicians? The Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating (AIRAH) provides a directory to help you find reputable professionals in your area.
3. Check Your Outdoor Unit
Your HVAC system's outdoor unit is like the engine of your car – it works hard to keep things running smoothly. But just like a car engine needs proper airflow to function, so does your outdoor unit.
Leaves, debris, and overgrown vegetation can restrict airflow around the unit, making it work harder and potentially leading to overheating. To avoid this, regularly check the outdoor unit and remove any obstructions. Remember to maintain a safe clearance around the unit as per the manufacturer's guidelines - usually found in the user manual.
4. Test Your Thermostat
Imagine setting your desired temperature but feeling chilly all winter long. A malfunctioning thermostat could be the culprit! This little device plays a big role in maintaining comfortable temperatures in your home.
Testing your thermostat is easy. Simply adjust the settings and ensure the system responds accordingly. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for even greater control and potential energy savings.
5. Seal Up the Drafts
Drafty windows and doors are like tiny energy killers, taking the warmth (and your money) right out of your home. These air leaks force your HVAC system to work harder to maintain your desired temperature.
To combat this, take some time to check your doors, windows, and other potential entry points for leaks. You can use a simple trick: hold a lit near potential leaks. If the smoke flickers, you've found one! Luckily, sealing these leaks is easy with a little weather stripping.
6. Consider Reverse Cycle Technology
If you're thinking about upgrading your HVAC system, consider the benefits of reverse cycle technology. These versatile units function as air conditioners in summer and heaters in winter, making them a popular choice in Australia. A qualified technician can assess your home's suitability for a reverse cycle system and help you choose the right unit for your needs.
Building a Career in Comfort: Explore Your Options
Ever considered a career that keeps people cosy and comfortable all year round? The world of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) is booming in Australia! Think about it – with our hot summers and cool winters, efficient HVAC systems are essential for Aussie homes.
Imagine a career where you:
Help families stay warm and toasty in winter.
Ensure cool and refreshing air during scorching summers.
Troubleshoot problems and keep HVAC systems running smoothly.
Building Institute NSW is a trusted provider of qualifications to get you started in this rewarding field. Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration provides you with the knowledge and skills to install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems.
But Building Institute offers so much more! They have a variety of building and construction qualifications that open doors to exciting careers. If you're interested in an electrical qualification to complement your HVAC skills? Their UEE30820 - Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician could be a perfect fit!
Build Your HVAC Career with Building Institute NSW!
FAQ
How often should you maintain your HVAC system?
Answer: Heating and air conditioning equipment, regardless of kind, should be examined, cleaned, and serviced at least once every year. The ideal situation is to have the heating system examined in the fall and the air conditioning checked in the spring.
What should the HVAC setting be during the winter?
Answer: When you're at home during the day, the optimum healthy house temperature in winter is no more than 20 degrees Celsius or 68 degrees Fahrenheit; you'll be relatively comfortable at this temperature without having to turn on the heat.
How frequently should I update my HVAC filter?
Answer: Most air filter manufacturers and HVAC providers recommend replacing your air filter every 90 days, or three months. This might vary depending on where your house is located (e.g., dusty, dry regions), whether you have pets and the age of your system and equipment.
How frequently should heat pumps be serviced?
Answer: Clean your home's supply and return registers, and straighten any bent fins. You should also have a professional technician maintain your heat pump at least once a year.
What humidity level should HVAC systems be adjusted to in the winter?
Answer: A humidity level of about 50% may generate condensation on your home's window sills and walls. When the temperature ranges from 0 to 10 degrees, a humidity level of 20% is ideal. When the outside temperature is between 10 and 20 degrees, reduce the setting to 25%.