3 Simple Tips For Maintaining Your HVAC System
When it comes to keeping your HVAC unit working properly, there are two things you'll need to do at least four times a year – keep the filter clean and oil the blower motor. A clean filter will keep dust and contaminants out of the air, and oiling the blower motor will keep the motor properly lubricated. Here are some helpful hints that will make maintaining your HVAC unit a little easier.
No Time to Buy a New Filter
Your filter is filthy but you don't have time to run to the store for a new one. With a bit of cleaning, you can get some extra use out of your old filter. Lay a towel on the ground and place your filter on top of it.
Use the brush attachment to your vacuum to thoroughly clean your filter. Be sure to vacuum each side of the filter. Put your filter up to the light. If the light shines through the filter, you can use it for a few more days.
Dust Still Circulating Through the House
You've changed the filter but you still see dust floating through your house. You're also seeing a build-up of dirt around the vent covers. You can alleviate the dust by turning your vent covers into miniature filter systems.
Supplies You'll Need
- Cheesecloth
- Scissors
- Rubber bands
- Screwdriver
Directions
- Use your screwdriver to remove the vent covers.
- Cut your cheesecloth into several large pieces.
- Fold each piece of cheesecloth into pads that will fit inside the vent covers.
- Place the cheesecloth pads on the vent covers and attach them using your rubber bands.
- Use your screwdriver to reinstall your vent covers.
- The cheesecloth will filter out the dust before it can blow into your home.
- Be sure to wash the pads once a month to remove the dirt.
Trouble Oiling Your Blower Motor
The blower motor is located in your furnace behind the front plate. To oil the motor, you need to get the nozzle of the oil container down into the oil compartment – which can be difficult. You can make the process easier with just a single piece of wire – such as a straightened wire coat hanger. Insert the wire into the oil compartment. Be sure there is enough to extend out of the furnace. Drip the oil directly onto the end of the wire. The oil will roll down the wire and into the oil compartment.
If you're like most people, you're using your HVAC throughout the year, which means you need to keep up on the maintenance. The simple tips provided above will help take the work out of maintaining your HVAC system. If you need help, contact a contractor like A Absolute Plumbing & Heating.