5 DIY Projects to Help Your HVAC System

Even when you’re very talented at undertaking DIY projects, working on your own HVAC system isn’t a good idea. The specialized parts, refrigerant needs, and ductwork all require a professional hand when it comes to maintenance and repairs. That doesn’t mean you should leave it alone between maintenance appointments. Learn which DIY tasks are expected to help the HVAC system in your Mount Pleasant, Texas, house run more efficiently.

Clean Around the Outdoor Unit

Debris that collects in and around your outdoor AC unit prevents it from working properly. The debris can block the exhaust vents and interfere with air conditioning efficiency. At worst, it gets inside the mechanism and damages something. Trim any low-hanging branches so that they don’t drop leaves and twigs into the fans. Clear the area around the unit, or the yard nearby so that wind-blown objects don’t get lodged in the vents. Don’t try to remove anything stuck in the outdoor unit as doing so could damage delicate parts.

Fence in the Outdoor Unit

Add a fence or some shrubs around your outdoor unit to protect it. Make sure you install the fence at least two feet from the unit so you don’t block the exhaust. The fence will protect it from debris, but there has to be enough space so technicians can access and work on the unit easily.

Caulk Your Windows

Your HVAC system works hard to provide you with heated and cooled air throughout the year. Leaky windows let out that treated air and force your HVAC system to stay on longer to maintain your desired temperature. Your energy bills increase and your HVAC system wears out faster because it has to work even harder.

Add caulk and weatherstripping to your windows to seal any air leaks. You’ll reduce strain on your HVAC system, and you’ll notice that the temperature inside your house is more consistent. Plus, your IAQ will improve because particulates and allergens have fewer entry points into your home.

Do a Home Energy Audit

If you’re ready for a home energy audit, Wood Air Conditioning & Plumbing has the expertise you need. Before you call us, you can take several steps to audit your home’s energy on your own. Check for gaps in your home that could allow for air leaks. Gaps might occur along your baseboards, near electrical outlets, or where your plumbing enters the walls. Turn off your HVAC system, light a candle, and hold it close to possible sources of air leaks, like around windows, outlets and pipes. If the smoke wavers significantly, that means you have an air leak.

You can also take a look at any exposed ductwork in your attic, crawl space, or basement. If you see a problem, chances are more problems exist in the spaces you can’t see.

Change the Air Filters

Changing your air filter is very easy and should be done as soon as it gets dirty. Some filters can be washed. If you are not sure how to clean your filter or whether they should be cleaned or replaced, your Wood Air Conditioning & Plumbing technician can help. It’s a simple but effective task that will keep your indoor air clean. When they get clogged it’s harder for the HVAC system to push air through them, which strains your system. A clogged air filter also can’t trap any more particulates, and might actually start letting some drift back into your home’s air.

Do these DIY projects between your maintenance appointments with Wood Air Conditioning & Plumbing to reduce the strain on your HVAC system. Even completing one DIY task will help to improve your HVAC system’s performance. Your efforts combined with our professional maintenance will keep your HVAC system running at top efficiency for as long as possible. Don’t neglect to take care of your system. Let our experts show you how. Call us today at 903-285-6550 for more information.

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