Maintenance is important and there are definitely things you can do on your own. Just make sure you turn off power to the unit before starting on any work. One of the easiest and most important things you can do is cleaning, which keeps your HVAC efficient. Dust and debris builds up in ducts and can restrict airflow. This particulate matter also worsens your air quality. That’s why a good air filter is so important. Taking care of the air filter is simple and should be done every month. Check your filter every month and change it when it gets dirty. If you have a reusable filter, you simply need to clean and reinstall it.

You should also clean your coil every month, which is easy enough with a vacuum and a soft-brush attachment. Just make sure the coil is dry for safety reasons. You should also clean the core and air filters on a ventilator with a vacuum cleaner at least every three months. When it comes to ground mounted outdoor units, make sure to keep the machinery clear of debris, including weeds that may grow up around the unit. Keep pets away as well, as pet urine can damage the system. Also make sure that your outdoor units are level at all times. Always work safely when it comes to HVAC equipment and don’t hesitate to call the professionals if you need assistance.

Besides working on your own, you should have your HVAC serviced twice a year to prevent issues. Tune-ups do a lot to keep your machine running efficiently, so don’t ignore them.