How Do You Maintain A Heating & Cooling System?

Heating and cooling system maintenance is not just about ensuring comfort in your home or office — it’s also about optimising performance and energy efficiency, leading to cost savings and extended equipment life. We’re here to provide you with a straightforward guide on how to maintain your HVAC system.

Regular maintenance checks

The cornerstone of efficient HVAC operation is regular maintenance. At least twice a year, professional servicing is crucial. These checks typically include:

• Inspecting and cleaning air filters — Dirty filters restrict airflow, reducing efficiency and straining the system. Clean or replace filters every 1–3 months, depending on usage and type.
  
• Checking thermostats and controls — Ensure your thermostat operates properly to keep comfort levels while optimising energy use.
  
• Inspecting electrical components and connections — Technicians should check for secure, tight connections and test the operation of electrical components to prevent potential safety hazards.
  
• Lubricating moving parts — Lack of lubrication causes motor friction and increases the electricity you use.
  
• Assessing condensate drain — Clogs in the pipe can cause water leaks and raise humidity levels, potentially damaging your system.

Seasonal HVAC maintenance tips

• Summer — Check the air conditioner’s coolant levels and ensure the AC unit is free of debris and foliage.
  
• Winter — Pay attention to your heating elements. Inspect the ignition burner assembly, test heater operation and ensure all components are clean from any build-up or blockages.

Enhancing system efficiency

To further enhance the efficiency of your HVAC system, consider the following tips:

• Upgrade to a smart thermostat — These devices automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule and preferences, significantly reducing wasted energy.
• Seal heating and cooling ducts — Sealing and insulating ducts, especially those that pass through non-conditioned spaces like attics or crawlspaces, can improve efficiency by up to 20%.
  
• Increase insulation — Reducing the heat exchange with the outside environment means less work for your HVAC system and more maintained temperatures indoors.

Troubleshooting common issues

Sometimes, despite regular heating and cooling system maintenance, systems may exhibit issues. Here’s how you can troubleshoot some common problems:

• Unusual noises — Rattling, buzzing or whistling noises can be due to loose parts, electrical issues or blockages in the system.
  
• Uneven heating or cooling — This could be due to blocked registers, improper insulation or duct issues.
  
• High utility bills — Sudden spikes in your bills can indicate system inefficiency, possibly due to ageing equipment or the need for a more thorough maintenance check.

Professional vs. DIY maintenance

While many aspects of how to maintain an HVAC system, such as replacing filters or cleaning external components, can be handled by a competent DIYer, it’s advisable to have a professional technician handle more complex tasks like checking electrical components or refrigerant levels. This ensures safety and maintains the validity of any existing warranties.

Request a quote for heating and cooling system maintenance from Atlantis Projex

Proper heating and cooling system maintenance enhances its efficiency and reliability, ensuring that it serves you well throughout its intended lifespan. Regular checks and proactive care can prevent costly repairs and replacements, keeping your environment comfortable and your energy bills in check.

As a family-owned business with over 25 years of combined experience in heating and cooling installations, upgrades and maintenance, Atlantis Projex offers expert guidance and professional service tailored to your HVAC needs. Our priority is to deliver heating and cooling services of the highest possible standards. 

We take a client-centric approach to building long-term relationships with our clients. We maintain transparency throughout the entire process, providing accurate estimates with no hidden costs. If you have any questions about our services, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team, who are more than happy to help.