The Texas weather is as fickle as … well, it’s fickle. From the summer heat waves to the winter snow days, it’s a battle that wages year after year with temperatures that can fluctuate 40 degrees in a single day.

The weather is not about to change its ways anytime soon, so it’s up to your HVAC to continue to perform season after season. You NEED it to perform season after season.

 

Here are a few DIY tips for how you can keep your unit running longer, stronger and at its highest efficiency.

1.) Pour vinegar down the drain pipe

When your AC’s drain line isn’t cleaned regularly, the condensation can become a breeding ground for mold, bacteria and algae. These contaminants can clog up the line, making your system work poorly. Turn off your AC, open the drain line cap, pour 1 cup of vinegar down the drain and put the cap back on. Then wait for 30 minutes to turn your AC back on again.

 

2.) Change your filters regularly

We get calls for complaints about HVAC units not functioning properly for any number of reasons. But one of the simplest and most effective preventative solutions is to change your filter. A dirty air filter will block off air flow making your unit work harder and not push out as much warm air in the winter or cool air in the summer. Not only will you be frustrated, but your AC will be struggling too, creating more wear and tear.

 

3.) Keep grass trimmed around your AC unit

Your HVAC’s condenser needs good airflow to run well so keep the grass, bushes, trees and all vegetation clear of the unit. Give it at least 2-3 feet on the sides and 5 feet above. We all need room to breathe.

 

4.) Wash off your unit

Dirt, dust and debris often find their way into your HVAC unit. Dirty or blocked condensers block airflow, making your unit chug along with more difficulty and potentially causing other serious problems. You can remove large debris with gloved hands. Stick to the debris on the outside, without getting into the unit just to stay safe. Then use a hose to spray off loose debris from the outside of the unit.

 

5.) Call in a professional once (or even twice) a year to do a maintenance check

Like getting an oil change or tune up for your car, your AC needs regular maintenance. If you’re doing all of the above, then this maintenance check should be very affordable and come without any issues. One of the main reasons to get this annual checkup is to spot small issues before they become big and expensive problems. Little things like leaks, low refrigerant or clogged lines can lead to major issues that require parts and repair or even replacement. If you only do one thing for your HVAC let it be this step.

 

There you have it. All of the “secrets” of HVAC maintenance revealed. If you perform all of the steps above and still find that your unit isn’t running smoothly, you may need to call in the big guns. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.