An HVAC system is a complex network of machinery that regulates the temperature and humidity in a building. It is thus an integral part of many homes because it ensures comfortability during cold months and hot summers. It can also keep humidity levels low to avoid mold growth which may cause respiratory problems.
The problem with HVAC systems is that they can get dirty over time, impacting their performance. A clogged system may cause the unit to freeze up, which wastes energy and results in high utility bills, or it might not be able to cool your home properly on a hot day. Therefore, Cleaning your HVAC system is a crucial part of keeping it efficient and running as long as possible. However, many people don’t know how often to clean their systems or what signs to look for that indicate the need for a thorough cleaning.
1. The Airflow Is Weak
One of the first signs that an HVAC system needs cleaning is a weak airflow. If you feel like the air blowing from your vents is not as strong as it used to be, this could be due to dirt and dust buildup in the system. Over time, this dirt will accumulate and block the airflow, which reduces the system’s efficiency.
To test whether your airflow is weak, stand in front of a vent with the fan on “high” and hold your hand up to the vent. If you can’t feel any air blowing on your hand, there is definitely something wrong, and the system needs to be cleaned.
2. Increased Energy Bills
Another sign that an HVAC system needs to be cleaned is increased utility bills. Over time, your unit will become less efficient due to dirt buildup, which means it has to work harder and run more often to keep the temperature of your home regulated. This leads to higher energy costs because, ultimately, you are using more electricity or gas each month.
3. The System is Noisy
Another sign that your system needs to be cleaned is if it starts making noises. For example, you might hear a lot of rattling or knocking when the unit turns on. This occurs because dirt buildup restricts airflow, which could damage other parts within the machine that cannot function properly anymore. You should have an HVAC technician look at the device if it starts making strange noises because this is not something you can fix on your own.
4. Increased Health Problems
If you are starting to experience more respiratory problems such as asthma attacks or allergies, it might be because the air in your home is not clean. This is often a sign that an HVAC system needs to be cleaned because, over time, dust and dirt will accumulate inside the unit and release particles into the air. Cleaning the system will help reduce your health problems.
An HVAC system is something that you can’t go without in many parts of the country, especially during the summer and winter months when it’s necessary to regulate the temperature inside your home for comfortability’s sake. Therefore, be proactive about cleaning it out regularly because, over time, this will save you money on your energy bills and keep your health in check.
