Cool Energy Costs With Routine Maintenance

The warmer months have arrived — and as the seasons change, so do your energy costs and air conditioner or heat pump maintenance requirements.

Just like changing the oil in your car, your cooling system needs regular maintenance to run at peak performance year after year. Studies have shown that proper HVAC maintenance may help reduce energy costs by roughly 5% to 40%, depending on the system and equipment involved.

Homeowners can handle a few routine tasks, but many HVAC jobs should only be performed by a licensed professional contractor.

DIY routine maintenance

Air filters

According to the Department of Energy, replacing a clogged filter with a clean one may help lower an air conditioner's energy consumption by up to about 15%. Dirty filters block airflow and can significantly reduce efficiency and performance. Replace filters on the schedule your manufacturer and technician recommend.

Exterior unit

Anything that reduces ideal airflow can make the system work harder and cost more to run. Clear growing foliage and remove debris from dryer vents, falling leaves, and grass trimmings around the outdoor unit.

Check fins

Evaporator and condenser coil fins should not be bent — bent fins can reduce or block airflow and lead to premature coil failure. Visually inspect the fins, then leave straightening or repairs to a licensed HVAC contractor.

Condensate drain

The condensate drain line typically runs from the indoor evaporator coil to a small PVC (or sometimes copper) pipe outdoors. On a hot day, a consistent drip usually means the drain is working. When drains clog, the unit may struggle to reduce indoor humidity, which hurts comfort and efficiency.

Need help with humidity, cooling, or a system checkup in Downers Grove and the western suburbs? Call WeaveAire at (630) 442-9250 or request service online.