One of the most unsung heroes of our home is the HVAC system. Hidden behind the walls and in the ceilings are ducts that connect that unit outside (condenser) to the vents we see throughout the home. That warm air circulating the home in the winter and the cool breeze fanning you down in the summer are both made possible thanks to the hardworking HVAC system. Without seeing its many components hard at work, it can be easy to forget that it needs maintenance from time to time.

The Anatomy of HVAC

What is an HVAC system? HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. In the simplest terms, the condenser, often found on the side of your home or on the roof of an apartment building takes in air that is then distributed through ducts and expelled into your home through vents. The air is then recycled back through return vents and pushed back out of the home. All of these working parts make up the HVAC system.

What to Expect During Professional Maintenance

Each component of the HVAC system requires special attention. Additionally, during different seasons of the year, certain parts of the HVAC need to be cleaned, cared for, or replaced. Trusting the HVAC professionals at Mission Viejo Heating & Air is a great way to guarantee that your home is getting the proper care it needs.

Changing the Air Filter

With all of the movement in and out of the home, our system often sees a lot of pollutants, allergens, debris, and more. Part of maintenance is to keep the system clean. One way to do this is to regularly change your air filter.

On average, your air filter should be changed every 30-60 days. Not changing your air filter can result in bad air quality, restrict airflow (which can increase your energy bills), and a shortened lifespan of your system overall.

Cleaning the Evaporator and Condenser Coils

In addition to the AC filter changes, evaporator and condenser coil cleanings are a routine part of maintenance. The evaporator and condenser coils are the parts of the system that remove and create heat in the home. If these are not properly functioning, your home may not be able to reach ideal temperatures.

Inspecting the Blower Motor

Part of routine maintenance is checking both the amps and voltage of the blower motor. The blower motor pushes the air through the duct system. If the blower is not working at max capability, it is likely a sign that it needs to be replaced or there is another part of the HVAC system that needs attention.

Cleaning Your Air Ducts

A less frequent requirement, but crucial to keep an eye on, is the cleanliness of your home’s ducts. With the constant pushing of air in and out of the home, over time, there is a buildup of dust and debris that can coat the ducts and create lower air quality — as well as a less forceful flow of air. Having routine maintenance will ensure that your ducts are being regularly checked.

Contact Us Today

Having your system checked twice a year is optimal for your home. Keeping things clean and up to date improves both the efficiency and the longevity of your HVAC system. For any and all HVAC needs, Mission Viejo Heating & Air is here to help. To schedule your appointment, give us a call at (949) 540-8142!