Top 5 HVAC Maintenance Tips for Winter Comfort
Preventative Maintenance of HVAC Systems
Imagine driving on a busy highway on Vancouver Island, and your car suddenly starts chugging and choking. Anxious about being stranded and waiting hours for a tow truck, you make an appointment with your mechanic when you arrive home. Fortunately, your mechanic tells you the repair is minor and inexpensive but could have been much worse if you had kept driving the car in its present condition.
Your HVAC system is like your automobile. Unless kept in optimal working order with preventative maintenance and inspections, the likelihood of being slapped with an exorbitant repair bill when your HVAC system screeches to a halt is very high.
Contact an HVAC technician today to reduce upkeep costs and ensure you can rely on your heating system during extreme weather. Whether you have a furnace, heat pump, radiant or geothermal system, boiler, or any other heating system, Waywest Mechanical can provide general or 24/7 emergency service. Call 250-729-2394 for general service or 250-616-1446 for 24-hour emergency service.
For more DIY options, continue reading our top HVAC winter maintenance tips
Tip 1: Cleaning & Changing Filters
When running efficiently, your HVAC system will keep your home or business comfortably cool, or pleasantly warm, while supporting the circulation of fresher air. Cleaning coils and filters prevent particulates, pet dander, bacteria, and mold spores from clogging the air, potentially triggering respiratory conditions in vulnerable individuals. The overall health benefits from a properly maintained HVAC system may also help reduce medical bills due to allergies, bronchitis, and asthma.
HVAC air filters should be checked at least once a month for dirt and debris. During high-use months, they should be checked twice a month. Neglecting to clean or replace air filters may affect your health, force your system to use more energy, cause your system to overheat due to dirty filters, or even cause a systemic breakdown, resulting in the need to replace the HVAC system.
Bonus Tip: Cleaning the Evaporator & Condenser Coils
Dirty evaporator and condenser coils can dramatically reduce the overall performance of your HVAC system. The evaporator coil absorbs heat from indoor air, collecting dust, dirt, and other airborne particles that accumulate on its surface over time. This debris film interferes with heat transfer efficiency and forces your system to work harder, causing energy needs to increase and shortening the unit’s lifespan. The condenser coil in the outdoor unit releases heat that is absorbed by the refrigerant. When this coil is covered and clogged with dirt, leaves, or other debris, it can’t efficiently dissipate heat, interfering with optimal system performance and increasing energy costs.
Tip 2: Replace Humidifier Components.
If your HVAC system contains a whole-home humidifier, replace it regularly to maintain acceptable moisture levels. Follow the manufacturer’s directions to clean or replace the humidifier pad, usually done once or twice per heating season. Check the water supply line for leaks or clogs, and clean any reservoirs to remove mineral deposits. Proper humidifier maintenance improves air quality and helps your heating system run more efficiently by making the air feel warmer at lower temperatures.
Tip 3: Clean & Service Outside Units
Maintaining and servicing outdoor units is vital to keeping central air systems working efficiently. Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris around the unit to prevent airflow obstruction that can stress units. Clean the exterior with a garden hose, but be careful not to damage the fins. Ensure a clearance of about half a meter around the unit for adequate air circulation. Consider purchasing special HVAC covers to protect the unit from ice and heavy snow during winter. Avoid enclosing the unit entirely with the cover to reduce moisture accumulating under the cover. Clean the coils and fins periodically, straightening any bent fins with a fin comb.
Tip 4: Seal Ducts & Check Pipes For Leaks
One of the most important winter HVAC maintenance tips is to seal ducts and check pipes for leaks. Leaky ducts can cause heated air to escape, making your system work harder and driving up energy costs. Inspect all visible ductwork and use duct sealant or metal-backed tape (notably, not duct tape, though, despite its name!) to seal any gaps or cracks. Additionally, check pipes for signs of wear or leaks, as these can lead to inefficiencies and potential damage to your system. Properly sealed ducts and pipes ensure warm air reaches every part of your home efficiently, keeping you cozy all winter. While checking for leaks, you should also consider insulating your pipes to prevent them from freezing.
Tip 5: Check & Optimize Thermostat Settings
Optimizing your thermostat settings is a simple but effective way to maintain comfort and efficiency during colder months. Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature, such as 20–22°C when you’re home, and lower it by a few degrees, around 16–18°C, when you’re sleeping or away. A programmable or smart thermostat can automate these adjustments, helping you save on energy costs without sacrificing warmth. Ensure your thermostat is located away from drafty areas or heat sources to get the most accurate readings. Proper settings keep your home cozy and your HVAC system running efficiently all season.
Call Waywest Mechanical Today For All Your HVAC Needs
Beyond the DIY options above, regular professional maintenance checks performed on an HVAC system accomplish three things: they prevent costly repairs, dramatically lower energy bills, and keep indoor air clean, healthy, and breathable. We proudly service Nanaimo and residents in nearby areas (Victoria to Campbell River) and provide 24/7 emergency repairs.