HVAC Maintenance Checklist for New Homeowners
Congratulations on your new home! As a new homeowner, one of the most important systems to maintain in your house is the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. A well-maintained HVAC system keeps your home comfortable year-round, improves energy efficiency, and can save you money on costly repairs down the line.
To help you get started, here’s a comprehensive HVAC maintenance checklist:
1. Change Your Air Filters Regularly
One of the simplest but most crucial steps to maintaining your HVAC system is changing the air filters. Clogged or dirty filters reduce airflow, forcing your system to work harder and potentially leading to higher energy bills or damage over time.
- Frequency: Every 1-3 months, depending on filter type, pet presence, and allergy concerns.
- Tip: Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to change the filter regularly.
2. Clean Around Your Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor HVAC unit (condenser) can get covered in dirt, leaves, and debris, which blocks airflow and reduces efficiency.
- Tip: Regularly clear away leaves, grass, and debris around the unit. Your outdoor unit will need to be cleaned more regularly in the fall and spring.
- Check: Make sure there’s at least 2-3 feet of clearance around the outdoor unit for proper airflow.
3. Schedule Annual HVAC Tune-Ups
Proper thermostat settings can greatly affect your HVAC system’s efficiency and the comfort of your home.
- Tip: Invest in a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures when you’re away from home, reducing energy usage and costs.
- Check: Make sure the thermostat is functioning properly and set to the correct modes for cooling and heating as the seasons change.
At Binsky Home Service, one of our professional maintenance technician will check all components of your HVAC system to ensure smooth operation during the changing seasons or address any needs for concern.
4. Check Your Thermostat Settings
Proper thermostat settings can greatly affect your HVAC system’s efficiency and the comfort of your home.
- Tip: Invest in a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures when you’re away from home, reducing energy usage and costs.
- Check: Make sure the thermostat is functioning properly and set to the correct modes for cooling and heating as the seasons change.
5. Test Your System Before Each Season
Before the peak of summer or winter, turn on your HVAC system to test whether it’s heating or cooling your home effectively.
- Cooling: Turn on the air conditioning before summer arrives to make sure it’s cooling properly.
- Heating: Fire up the furnace in the fall to confirm it’s working efficiently.
Catching issues before extreme weather ensures your system won’t fail when you need it the most.
6. Keep Your Energy Bills in Check
Unusually high energy bills could be a sign that your HVAC system is struggling and may need maintenance or repair.
- Monitor: Regularly review your energy bills and compare them to the previous year’s usage during similar months.
- Investigate: If you notice a spike in energy costs, it could be time to have your HVAC system inspected by a Binsky Home Service professional.
6. Replace Your HVAC System When Necessary
No HVAC system lasts forever. The typical lifespan is around 10-12 years, depending on the system and how well it’s maintained. If your system is aging and frequently breaking down, it might be more cost-effective to replace it with a newer, energy-efficient model.
- Tip: When it’s time for a replacement, consult with a Binsky Home Service professional to choose the right system for your home size and energy needs. We offer FREE Estimates for HVAC system installations and replacements.
As a new homeowner, staying on top of HVAC maintenance can prevent costly repairs, improve efficiency, and extend the life of your system. While some tasks are easy DIY projects, it’s always a good idea to schedule regular professional inspections with Binsky Home Service to keep your HVAC system in peak condition.
Contact Binsky Home Service today to schedule your HVAC maintenance in Somerset County, NJ.
