Basics of Home HVAC Systems and How to Maintain Them?

If you own a home or plan to buy one, it's essential to understand the basics of HVAC systems and how to maintain them. HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This system is responsible for heating and cooling your home and includes products like furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps as well as ductwork, thermostats, and other home comfort controls. 

In this article, we will explore the basics of HVAC systems, HVAC maintenance, and tips for maintaining an HVAC system.

Components of the HVAC System

An HVAC system consists of several components, which work together to provide comfort and good air quality inside your home. Here are some of the most common components:

Furnace

A furnace generates heat by burning fuel and distributes the generated heat throughout the house. Furnaces consist of four main components, including burners that deliver and burn fuel, heat exchangers, a blower, and a flue that acts as an exhaust for gaseous by-products.

Air conditioner

An air conditioner draws heat energy out of the house and transfers it to the outside air. The most common setup for residential homes is a split system, which includes an inside-the-home evaporative heat exchanger and an outside condensing unit heat exchanger.

Heat Pump

A heat pump uses the outside air to heat a home in winter and cool it in summer. In the simplest sense, a heat pump “pumps heat” from one place to another, moving heat out of your home when you want it cooler, and pumping heat into your home when you want it warmer.

Air Handler

An air handler most commonly works with a heat pump to circulate air throughout your home. If you’re searching for a traditional air conditioner or furnace, you won’t need an air handler as those systems have the internal parts needed to circulate air.

Ductless Systems

A ductless HVAC system or mini-split is a heating and cooling system designed to deliver warm or cool air to a single room or several without the need for connective ductwork. Ductless systems are a great option to heat or cool a single room in your home without the hassle of adding ductwork.

Thermostat

A thermostat, located inside your home, is a regulating device that allows you to control your indoor temperature. Thermostats are generally split into two classifications: traditional or connected controls. Connected or smart thermostat controls can integrate with other smart home systems and learn over time how to most efficiently heat and cool your home. Traditional thermostats are simpler — but several offer programmable features as well.

How to Maintain Your HVAC System?

Now that we understand the basics of HVAC systems, let's explore HVAC maintenance. Regular HVAC maintenance is essential to ensure your HVAC system runs smoothly and efficiently. Here are some tips for maintaining your HVAC system:

1. Change Air Filters

Dirty air filters can cause the HVAC system to work harder, increasing energy consumption and higher utility bills. Change air filters every one to three months, depending on usage.

A dirty air filter will make your HVAC system work harder, which will increase your energy bills and potentially lead to system failure. Make sure to change your air filters every 1-3 months, depending on the type of filter and how much you use your HVAC system.

2. Check Your Thermostat

Make sure your thermostat is set to the correct temperature and functioning properly. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat, which will allow you to control the temperature and save energy.

3. Clean the Coils

Dirty coils can cause your HVAC system to work harder, increasing energy consumption and higher utility bills. Clean the coils at least once a year.

4. Check and Clear Drainage

 A clogged drain can cause water damage and mold growth. Check and clear drainage lines regularly.

5. Check Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant levels can cause your HVAC system to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. Check refrigerant levels regularly.

6. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clear

The outdoor unit of your HVAC system needs to be kept clear of debris, such as leaves and twigs, to ensure proper airflow. Clear away any debris from the area around your outdoor unit regularly.

7. Seal Your Ductwork

Leaky ductwork can lead to energy loss and decreased indoor air quality. Make sure to seal any leaks in your ductwork to prevent these issues.

8. Schedule Professional Maintenance Checks

A professional HVAC technician can conduct a thorough inspection of your system, identifying any issues and addressing them before they become major problems. It's recommended to schedule maintenance checks twice a year, in the spring and fall.

Example of HVAC Maintenance in the United States

In the United States, the Department of Energy recommends that homeowners schedule professional maintenance checks for their HVAC systems at least once a year. In addition to regular maintenance, homeowners should also consider upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC systems to save money on energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.

One example of an energy-efficient HVAC system is the Lennox XC25 air conditioner, which has a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating of up to 26, making it one of the most efficient air conditioners on the market. This system also features a variable-speed compressor, which allows it to adjust its output based on the temperature and humidity levels in your home, further increasing its efficiency.

Conclusion

Maintaining your HVAC system is crucial to ensure that it operates at peak performance and lasts for years to come. Regular maintenance checks, changing air filters, and keeping outdoor units clear are just a few of the steps you can take to keep your system running smoothly. By following these tips and scheduling professional maintenance checks, you can save money on energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy a comfortable home all year round.