Sweatman's HVAC

With summer in full swing, it’s essential to keep your home cool and comfortable. While Bay-Care Heating & Air offers excellent heating repair and AC installation in Berlin, MD, there are also numerous DIY measures homeowners can take to ensure their systems operate efficiently.

Maintaining Your Air Conditioner

Your air conditioner is a key component in keeping your home comfortable during the hot summer months. A well-maintained system operates more efficiently, saves energy costs, and prolongs the life of the unit. Regularly check and replace air filters, ideally once a month during peak seasons. Blocked filters make your unit work much harder, increasing energy consumption and potentially causing damage.

Apart from filters, the area around your outdoor unit should always be clear of obstructions. Falling leaves, weeds, and lawn debris can affect the performance of your air conditioner. Make sure the area is clear and clean, and keep any shrubbery at least two feet away from the unit for good air circulation.

Heating System Tips

Your heating system also requires regular maintenance to run efficiently. An easy DIY heating tip is to frequently check your furnace filter and replace it when it becomes dirty. A clean filter will not only improve the efficiency of your heating system but also the air quality in your home.

On a yearly basis, it’s important to ensure that your heating system’s ductwork is properly sealed. Leaky ducts can cause your heating system to work overtime and significantly increase your energy bills. Luckily, you can easily fix minor leaks yourself using mastic sealant or metal tape.

Detecting Common Problems

What are the signs of a potentially larger issue? Listen for any unusual noises from your heating or cooling systems. Clicking sounds during start-up and shutdown, for example, could indicate a relay problem. Frequent cycling or constantly running could also suggest a bigger issue.

When it comes to your AC unit, be aware of water pooling around the indoor unit or a lack of cool air, which may mean a refrigerant leak or a problem with the compressor. If you come across any of these issues, it’s advisable to seek professional help from trusted specialists.

Remember, while these DIY tips can help maintain your heating and cooling systems, they are not a substitute for professional maintenance and repair. Bay-Care Heating & Air in Berlin, MD, provides expert services that will ensure your systems are running smoothly and efficiently.