“ HVAC MAINTENANCE ”

Heating and cooling problems can cause discomfort and sky-high utility bills on top of

inconvenience. Keep your home’s HVAC in tip-top shape!

What to know:

Weather extremes are putting more pressure on homeowners’ heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in keeping homes cool during the summer and warm in the winter. That's one reason it's more important than ever to keep up your HVAC maintenance. But that's not always top of mind for homeowners.

The HVAC often runs in the background, which means you likely don’t give it much thought — until it breaks down, that is. And that can happen at the worst times. Forty-two percent of homeowners say they’ve experienced HVAC system issues during

heat waves. A failing HVAC system during a scorching summer can lead to discomfort, costly utility repairs, and even health risks for more vulnerable populations.

But many costly HVAC disasters can likely be prevented. For example, fewer than half of

homeowners, 47%, say they’ve had HVAC servicing within the last year. Yet, experts advise annual HVAC servicing to avoid expensive repairs. Even fewer homeowners, 32%, say they’ve done basic cleaning and HVAC maintenance to help prevent heat-related home damage

The Checklist:

1.Change filters regularly. Swap them out every 30 to 90 days.

2.Clean air vents and registers. Use a brush to clear dust and dirt at the top of the

registers and the bottom of vents or use a vacuum cleaner.

3.Keep outdoor units clear of debris. Make sure the area around your HVAC unit is

free of overgrown plantings, leaves, and dirt.

4.Seal drafts. Weather strip doors and caulk around windows to keep your HVAC from

overworking.

5.Examine exposed ductwork. Seal any holes or leaks with duct sealant or metal-

backed tape.

6.Monitor your thermostat. Consider a programmable thermostat to increase

your system’s efficiency and avoid overrunning it.

7.Check the flame. Natural gas furnaces should have a crisp, blue flame; if not, call

an HVAC tech immediately.

8.Clean the drain line. Flushing it out regularly will help avoid clogs.

9.Check carbon monoxide detectors. Test monitors monthly. Replace batteries annually.

10.Schedule a professional checkup. Have units inspected at least yearly.