Are you looking to clean your HVAC system, but aren’t quite sure how to do it?
Keeping your HVAC system clean is essential to ensuring that it runs efficiently. But, how do you clean it, exactly?
Check out this guide to learn how to clean an HVAC system.
1. Replace the Filters
Replacing your AC filters is one of the most important steps in keeping your AC unit clean.
If your filters are dirty, then air will have more trouble getting through. This will result in less efficient cooling and higher energy bills.
Change your filters every three months, and remember, not all filters are the same. Look at the MERV rating on your current filter to make sure it’s filtering out the bad particles in the air.
2. Clean the Area Surrounding the HVAC Unit
Cleaning the area surrounding the HVAC unit is another important step in the cleaning process.
Head to your outside HVAC unit (the big metal box with the fan) and make sure there aren’t any branches, leaves, grass, or dirt piles surrounding it. If there are, clean them out of the way. Anything that is within two feet of your unit should be removed.
You should also gently wash the dirt and debris that’s collected on the fan, compressor, and condenser coil. But, before you begin cleaning on the outside unit, make sure that the power is off.
Turn off your thermostat, breaker, and fuse. You can use a garden hose to clean the unit, but just be careful to not turn the pressure too high.
3. Clean the Registers and Vents
In addition to cleaning the outside area, you also need to make sure that you clean the registers and vents.
These areas tend to collect a lot of dirt and debris. If there’s too much grime in these areas, it can result in a clog in your system and major problems down the road.
Wipe down and vacuum each register and vent in your home. For a deeper clean, you can use the hose of the vacuum to loosen up gunk. You can also place a duster rag over a butter knife to get all of the hard to reach nooks and crannies.
4. Hire a Professional to Inspect and Clean the Ducts
Last but not least, make sure you hire a professional to inspect and clean your ducts. To find the right professional, you’ll just need to conduct a quick online search of residential and commercial HVAC services in your area.
You’ll want to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years, as clogged ducts can block airflow and cause bacteria build-up. Plus, dust mites and insects love to hang out in clogged air ducts.
How to Clean an HVAC System: Are You Ready to Clean?
Now that you know how to clean an HVAC system, it’s time to start cleaning. Pretty soon, your system will be as good as new. Be sure to check back in with our blog for more HVAC-related tips and tricks.
