Las Vegas weather can be hard on HVAC systems, especially during the scorching summer months. The change from the swelteringly hot, arid summers, to the relatively cool, cold even, fall and winter nights can be harsh on your heating and air-conditioning systems. However, there are some basic fall HVAC maintenance tips to keep your systems running smoothly as we come into the winter season.
Of course, it’s recommended that you get your HVAC systems professionally cleaned at least once a year to make sure that all those little nooks and crannies you can reach get love and attention too. Nonetheless, these 5 tips and tricks will keep your system running smoothly.
1. Keep Your Vents Clean
Dust, debris, and sand can build up in your HVAC vents quickly, and such build-ups can do real damage if left uncleaned. In fact, even 1/100th of an inch of dust build-up can reduce the efficiency of your system by 10%. This can cause a rise in your utility costs, and of course a costly break-down if it gets too bad.
2. Check If the Wiring is Intact
You should check for signs of burned, blackened, or melting insulation around the wires. You can do this by turning off the power to your HVAC unit (the switch should be in an exterior box on your outdoor unit or next to your homes breaker panel). Once you have checked the wires, you should also take the time to make sure that all the other components are tightly screwed in. If you see anything that looks unfamiliar or out of place, call a professional company for advice.
3. Clean Your Outdoor Unit
All those stunning autumn leaves may look beautiful when they’re falling, but they can wreak havoc with your HVAC unit. When they become lodged in your outdoor unit, they can increase the build-up of pollen, dust, and dirt that reduces its efficiency. Keeping it clear can reduce build-up, but also mitigate the potential fire-risk that the debris poses to your home.
4. Clean the Filter
You should have checked your filter regularly especially during those hot, dusty summer months. If you haven’t, the turn of the seasons is the perfect time to dust off your filters. Make sure that you’re ready to face the winter by clearing away any clots of dirt, grime, or dust. Pay special attention to any filters near your kitchen because oils from cooking will ensure that dust and dirt stick like glue.
5. Consider Getting Some Shade
Natural light is wonderful for your health and wellbeing, but maintaining your AC, especially in the heat and dust of Las Vegas, can mean limiting the direct sunshine it gets. Heat gain can be a real problem for HVAC systems. So, when doing your maintenance, you should check for signs of discoloration to the covering. Bleaching may be a sign that your unit is getting too much direct sunshine. If you see this, consider getting shades to prevent this in the future.
Of course, there is no substitute for regular maintenance. Doing your own fall HVAC maintenance is a great way to prolong the life of your HVAC unit, but professional servicing is the best way to make sure it never breaks down on you. With Rebel Refrigeration, you can easily schedule your fall HVAC maintenance to ensure that your system operates seamlessly when you and your family need it most. Contact us at (702) 766-9436 or send us an email to schedule your fall maintenance service today!