HVAC Inspection Checklist For Residential Homeowners

You need to make sure that your HVAC system is in top shape before the cold weather sets in.

Between visits by your local HVAC technicians, there are many things you can do to help your HVAC system run smoothly. Here is a Fall HVAC Maintenance Checklist that includes DIY tips and guidance on when Lockhart Industries should be called for assistance.

Fall HVAC maintenance list

Dust and debris can collect where there's airflow. This is also true for your HVAC system. Your HVAC system can be affected if dirt collects in the air filters. This can lead to costly repairs and extensive damage if not addressed. Maintaining healthy airflow is crucial to the optimal operation of your HVAC system.

Replace your air filters regularly
Check your air filters every 30-90 days
Vacuum all dust and debris from lightly oiled air filters

Keep your HVAC's Outdoor Unit Clear

You should clear your HVAC system's outdoor units regularly. We recommend doing a weekly inspection. Common culprits in the spring and summer include grass clippings, pollen, and fast-growing landscaping. Fallen leaves, ice and snow buildup are common culprits in the winter and spring. Refrigerant leaks can be caused by materials that have been left behind.

It is a good idea that you use gloves to clean your outdoor unit. Lockhart Industries suggests that you turn off your HVAC system to ensure your safety.

Each week, clean the HVAC unit and its surrounding areas of debris
Keep the unit clean by mowing and whacking it
After windy or stormy periods, inspect the surrounding area for fallen branches and leaves
Clear any snow or ice from the HVAC unit
You can use a quality cleaning spray to remove any deposits that have hardened onto the coils
Make sure to inspect the wiring and outlets for damage

Check AC Drain Pipe

Fall is also a good season to inspect the drain pipe of your A/C. Trapped condensation can build up over winter, and freeze in the pipes. This can cause problems when your A/C turns on next summer. Mouldy, musty, or other signs of a clogged A/C drain pipe include an unpleasant odour around the indoor unit and the vents.

Turn off the HVAC unit
For standing water, check the drain pan. Clean the drain pan if it is wet to remove any mould growth
Look for any blockages in your A/C drain pipe. This is usually caused due to dead vegetation, dirt, or even insects
You can flush the drainpipe with a shop vacuum, garden hose or large plumbing snake. This is similar to cleaning out a household sink or vacuum hose
Once the clog is gone, pour one cup of distilled white vinegar down the drain pipe
Watch for signs of a continued clog by turning the system back on
If you still have a clog, contact a professional Victoria HVAC

Indoor HVAC Vents

As we all know, air flow is essential for maintaining an HVAC system. And, yes, vents are also important. Like your outdoor unit's air filters, vents (or registers) can collect all kinds of debris.

Make sure to clean vents and registers of pet hair, dust, dirt, socks, and other debris regularly
If furniture is covering vents with its cover, you should move it to the side and inspect the vent covers as well as the interior
If applicable, remove the vent cover. You can vacuum the vent opening with a brush attachment
Use a gentle cleaner (soap and warm water) to remove any remaining residue or dirt