hvac maintenance

Tired of spending thousands on repairs? These 5 home maintenance tasks can save you money & keep your home running smoothly. Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric is here to help! Let’s face it, homeownership comes with its fair share of responsibilities. One of the biggest (and often most expensive) is keeping your home in tip-top shape. According to a 2023 HomeAdvisor report, the average homeowner spends around $2,500 annually on repairs and maintenance. But what if you could significantly reduce that number?

The secret lies in preventative maintenance. By taking care of your home through regular home maintenance tasks, you can avoid costly repairs down the road. Here are 5 simple tasks that can save you money in the long run, all brought to you by Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, your trusted partner for all your home service needs.

1. Conquer Clogged Drains with Preventative Measures

Clogged drains are a common household nuisance, but they can also lead to bigger problems if left unaddressed. A simple clog can turn into a burst pipe if not dealt with promptly, resulting in a major repair bill. Here’s how to prevent clogged drains and save money:

Install drain screens: These handy gadgets catch hair, soap scum, and other debris before they enter the drain, preventing clogs in the first place.
Limit what goes down the drain: Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the drain. These can solidify and contribute to clogs over time.
Regularly clean your drains: Pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down your drains can help break down minor clogs and keep them flowing freely. For tougher clogs, consider using a drain snake specifically designed for household use.

By taking these simple steps, you can avoid the need for professional drain cleaning services, saving you hundreds of dollars. If you do encounter a stubborn clog, Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric offers fast and reliable drain clearing services to get your pipes flowing smoothly again.

2. Embrace the Power of DIY Air Filter Replacement

Your HVAC system works tirelessly to keep your home comfortable year-round. But just like any other machine, it needs regular maintenance to function efficiently. One of the most crucial home maintenance tasks for your HVAC system is replacing the air filter.

Here’s why air filter replacement is so important:

Improved Air Quality: A clean air filter traps dust, pollen, and other allergens, improving indoor air quality and reducing respiratory problems for you and your family.
Enhanced Efficiency: A clogged air filter forces your HVAC system to work harder to circulate air, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. Replacing the filter regularly ensures your system runs efficiently, saving you money on your energy costs. The EPA recommends replacing your air filter every 1-3 months, depending on your home environment and type of filter.
Prevents Costly Repairs: A neglected air filter can put a strain on your HVAC system, leading to premature wear and tear and potentially expensive repairs. Regular replacement extends the lifespan of your HVAC system, saving you money in the long run.

Replacing your air filter is a simple home maintenance task that anyone can do. Most filters are readily available at hardware stores and can be replaced in just a few minutes. If you’re unsure about the location or type of air filter your system requires, consult your owner’s manual or call Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric for assistance.

3. Inspect and Clean Your Gutters Regularly

Your gutters play a vital role in protecting your home from water damage. They channel rainwater away from your foundation, preventing leaks, erosion, and basement flooding. However, clogged gutters can’t do their job effectively.

Here’s why regular gutter cleaning is important:

Prevents Water Damage: Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and pool around your foundation, leading to cracks, leaks, and even mold growth. The cost of water damage repairs can be significant, so preventative gutter cleaning is key.
Protects Your Roof: Overflowing gutters can damage your roof shingles and underlying structures. Left unaddressed, this can lead to costly roof repairs or even replacement.
Reduces Mosquito Breeding: Clogged gutters with stagnant water can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Regular cleaning helps keep these pests at bay.

Ideally, you should clean your gutters twice a year – once in the spring after winter debris has accumulated and once in the fall after leaves have fallen. If you’re uncomfortable cleaning your gutters yourself, Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric offers professional gutter cleaning services. Our technicians will safely remove debris, ensure proper drainage, and identify any potential problems with your gutters or downspouts.

4. Schedule Annual HVAC System Checkups

Just like your car needs regular tune-ups, your HVAC system benefits greatly from annual maintenance checks. These checkups, performed by a qualified technician from Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, can help identify and address minor issues before they become major problems.

Here’s what an annual HVACcheckup typically entails:

Inspection: The technician will inspect your system for any signs of wear and tear, loose connections, or potential problems.
Cleaning: They will clean key components like the blower fan and coils to improve efficiency and airflow.
Lubrication: Lubricating moving parts ensures smooth operation and reduces the risk of friction and wear.
Calibration: The technician will calibrate your thermostat to ensure your system is heating or cooling your home to the desired temperature efficiently.

The benefits of annual HVAC maintenance are numerous:

Prevents Breakdowns: Catching minor problems early can prevent them from escalating into expensive repairs later.
Improves Efficiency: A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, saving you money on energy costs.
Extends Lifespan: Regular maintenance helps your HVAC system last longer, saving you from the cost of premature replacement.

By scheduling an annual HVAC checkup with Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, you can ensure your system runs smoothly, efficiently, and avoids costly breakdowns.

5. Don’t Neglect Your Water Heater

Your water heater works tirelessly to provide you with hot showers and baths. But like any appliance, it needs some TLC to keep functioning properly. Here are some simple home maintenance tasks for your water heater:

Drain and flush annually: Draining and flushing your water heater removes sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency and shorten its lifespan.
Inspect the pressure relief valve: This valve is a safety feature that releases pressure if it gets too high. Test the valve annually to ensure it’s functioning properly.
Check the anode rod: The anode rod attracts corrosion, protecting your water heater tank. Inspect it periodically and replace it when necessary.

Follow these steps to make your water heater last longer and save money on repairs or having to replace it early. If you don’t want to do it yourself, Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric can help with water heater maintenance. This will ensure that your hot water continues to work well.

By incorporating these home maintenance tasks into your routine, you can save yourself a significant amount of money in the long run. Remember, preventative maintenance is an investment in your home that will pay off for years to come. For all your plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical needs, Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your next service appointment!

As any homeowner or even longtime renter is likely already aware, filters are some of the most important components in your HVAC system. Your HVAC filter traps contaminants and pollutants before they make it into your breathing air, limiting their presence while also maintaining quality air flow within your system — but they will only perform this job effectively if they are changed or cleaned at the proper intervals.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, while many of our services are in larger areas like furnace installation or repair, we’re happy to help with basic maintenance areas for your day-to-day HVAC needs — including filters. One of the most common questions we’re asked by our clients in this area: How often do I need to change or clean my air filters? Here’s a general primer on this and a few related concepts to help steer you in the right direction.

Air Filter Basics and Importance

For those who are unaware, HVAC air filters are a vital part of your system for a number of reasons. First, they keep dust and dirt from being put into the air you breathe by trapping it within the filter itself — while some particles may pass through this material, the main purpose is to prevent these contaminants from reaching your lungs or having an adverse effect on anyone in the area, including family members or pets.

In addition to this, filters also play a crucial role in the functionality of your system. When a filter becomes dirty or clogged, it can hamper or even damage the quality of air flow throughout your compartment — making it harder for hot or cold air to reach desired locations. This is why it’s important to change or clean the filter frequently, which we’ll dig into further below.

How Often Should Filters Be Changed/Cleaned?

There are a few factors that will help answer this question, including your geographic location, the type of filter you have installed in your system, and the number of people using or occupying the home. These factors must also be considered alongside one another.

Generally speaking, average cleaning or changing frequency for most standard filters is about once a month. However, you may need to do this as often as once every two weeks or as infrequently as once a year depending on your situation. The best way to determine what’s right for you is to combine basic manufacturer information with your own basic inspection — is your filter clearly becoming dirty and clogged after less than a month? Or on the flip side, has your air usage been limited, and is your filter still virtually spotless despite being in place for over a month? These and similar factors will impact how often they’re changed or cleaned.

One general tip here, though: Be aggressive about changing or cleaning filters. If you’re unsure whether a filter needs a change-out, just go ahead and do it — filters aren’t that expensive in the long run, and the benefits your system will see are worth making the change a few days early in some cases.

Specific Signs Filters Need Replacement

Now, in other cases, there will be noticeable signs throughout your home and HVAC system that your filters have clogged up and require replacement (or cleaning, for multi-use models). These include:

Trouble heating or cooling: If your system suddenly is struggling to meet your desired temperatures, and you’ve discovered no other readily available culprit, the issue could be a dirty or clogged filter. In this case, you’ll want to inspect the system and filters to be sure.
Sudden noises: Strange creaking or popping sounds coming from your HVAC unit may indicate a more serious issue with the motor — but these sounds could also result from a worn-down or damaged fan assembly due to a dirty or clogged filter. Inspecting and changing your air filters regularly will help you avoid this problem in most cases.
Excessive dust in vents: If there is a noticeable amount of dust building up inside your ductwork or in the vents throughout your home, it may be time for a change-out — especially if you use the HVAC system frequently and there is no easily-identifiable reason for the excess dust (for example, you recently had construction work done in your home, or a similar event).
Unpleasant odors: If an otherwise clean and clear air filter suddenly smells strongly of chemicals or any other foul odors, it may be time for replacement — this generally indicates a chemical reaction between the elements in a dirty filter and the air surrounding it.
Increasing energy bills: Have your HVAC bills gone up compared to this time last year, with no other explanation? This could be a sign that your filter is dirty and reducing the efficiency of your system — requiring it to work harder, over an extended period of time, to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Greater frequency of respiratory symptoms: If you or anyone else in the home have begun experiencing more frequent allergy or asthma attacks, it may be time to inspect your HVAC system and filters. This is especially true if these symptoms increase in severity or duration, rather than following a normal allergy season’s schedule.

As you can see, there are a number of factors to be aware of when it comes to your HVAC filters. For more on this, or to learn about any of our HVAC or plumbing services throughout Utah, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric today.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the common mistakes made by homeowners during the winter as they look to heat their homes. While many of these are well-intentioned or based on understandable gaps in knowledge, they can lead to issues ranging from spiking heating bills up to long-term stress and damage to your HVAC system.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we’re here to help not only provide your home with proper HVAC equipment like furnace installation and repair, but also offer expertise on the use and maintenance of these components. What are some of the other common mistakes we help our clients avoid as they look to heat their home both affordably and comfortably this winter? Here are a few to keep in mind.

Curtains and Window Concerns

Curtains and window dressings are an area where homeowners should be proceeding in the opposite manner from the summer period. During warm season, keeping blinds or curtains closed during the heat of the day is a great way to limit the home’s interior temperature – during the winter, on the other hand, these should be opened during the day to allow the sun to assist in warming the home. This is free heat you should not avoid.

In addition, always ensure windows are properly closed and locked. You might be shocked how much harder your furnace and HVAC system will have to work to heat the home if even a small gap is present in certain windows, allowing air out when it should be kept in.

Vent Closing

Some homeowners assume that closing all vents in rooms that aren’t being used is a way to save on heating costs. This is not true – ducts in your home are meant to heat the entire area evenly, and will stop working correctly if you close vents unevenly. HVAC professionals recommend keeping all vents in the home open even if you aren’t using certain areas or rooms.

Leaks or Drafts

If you notice any drafts of cold air where there shouldn’t be, or especially if you find leaks, gaps or full-on cracks in your entryways, door areas or similar locations, these should be attended to right away. Leaving them alone will only cause them to worsen, and as we noted above, even small gaps leading to air loss will cause enormous strain on the furnace – and a rise in your heating bill simultaneously.

Regular Maintenance

Finally, perhaps the single largest mistake you can make this season is putting off annual HVAC maintenance. Best done twice a year, during the fall and spring, this maintenance allows us to ensure your system is in good shape headed into a new season – we’ll inspect the entire setup, ensure there are no minor issues that require repair and set you up for the season ahead.

For more on avoiding common heating mistakes during the winter, or to learn about any of our HVAC or plumbing services, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric today.

Those who have significant allergies often see them peak during the spring season, but many also are affected by these during fall and even year-round. The impact of allergies can be exacerbated during colder months as well, based on the cooler temperatures and the way they negatively impact immune function in many people.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we offer a wide range of HVAC and air conditioning service that will, among other things, keep the occupants in your home protected from significant allergen risks in the air. For those particularly concerned about fall allergy symptoms, let’s go over a few common risks and how proper HVAC maintenance limits or even completely eliminates them within your home.

Common Allergy Risks

While there are many possible allergy risks throughout the year, one that’s particularly notable during the fall season is ragweed. Able to travel hundreds of miles on the back of wind, ragweed can show up virtually anywhere and is often a major cause of allergy symptoms. It can lead to everything from eye irritation to significant hacking and lung concerns.

In addition, while mold is a risk for both allergies and other physical symptoms no matter when it shows up, its growth is a bit more common during the fall. As the temperatures drop, clouds of humidity become more common and damper than usual – conditions that are ideal for mold to grow, in other words. Combine this with leaves stacking up on the property, trapping in moisture, and the potential for mold is highest at this time of year.

HVAC Maintenance and Allergy Prevention

Luckily, there are several things that can be done within the HVAC system to prepare for these fall risks and ensure they aren’t making their way inside. Some general themes:

HVAC cleaning: Just taking a little time to clean dust and any dirt off your outdoor AC unit can go a long way toward limiting any allergen particles from getting inside the system.
Home and duct cleaning: In addition to the AC unit itself, do what you can to keep indoor and outdoor areas free of debris like leaves or dirt, which can promote allergen growth. In addition, if anyone in the home is struggling with allergy issues despite your efforts, speak to our pros about a professional duct cleaning to remove dust that might be causing these issues.
Filters: In many cases, the simplest reason for increased allergy symptoms in the home is air filters that have not been changed recently enough, causing them to accumulate dust and do a poor job of filtering allergens out of your air. Filters should be changed often throughout the year.

Additional Air Quality Items

If someone in your home is particular susceptible to allergies, you might consider an additional line of defense in the form of various indoor air quality products, such as purifiers. These are meant to cycle air in a particular room or area and catch all possible allergens.

For more on how to stay protected from allergies during the fall or any other part of the year, or to learn about any of our HVAC or plumbing services, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical today.

With summer in full swing, proper home cooling and general home pest prevention are two major areas that homeowners have to be considering. Did you realize, though, that these two areas may overlap?

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical, we can tell you some pretty harrowing stories from our experiences with pests attempting to invade HVAC systems. Insects, rodents and various forms of pests may look to these areas for shelter or moisture sources, and may leave droppings and other debris – plus create damage to the system if unchecked. Let’s go over some very general tips for preventing this from happening, including areas where our air conditioner tune-ups will help.

Moisture Control

As we noted above, a popular reason for pests attempting to infiltrate your HVAC system will be to find a moisture source. Many insects thrive in moist environments, especially standing water or damp areas.

For this reason, do your best to limit any such areas. If you notice any condensation building up in or around your AC unit, for instance, contact our pros about the possible causes and how to remedy them. If any of your ducts or plumbing pipes are leaking, ensure these are fixed immediately. Finally, if your humidity is too high in certain areas, consider a dehumidifier to assist with this.

Duct Sealing

Other pests might just be looking for a place to live, and one of the easiest such areas for them to find will be leaks in your ducts. Even small leaks open up areas for pests to enter through, plus will result in lost air that ups your energy bill each month. Do a regular visual inspection of your ducts and seal any minor gaps or holes.

Vent Screen Covers

For homes that contain external air vents to the outdoors, ensure all such openings are covered with aluminum wire mesh. These covers will allow the proper air flow without opening up a direct access point for pests.

Pest Spraying

At least semi-annually, the exterior of your home and various HVAC equipment should be sprayed for standard pests. Some handy homeowners might be able to perform this service on their own, but be sure you know what you’re doing here before you get started – if you’re even somewhat unsure of any area here, professional pest control spraying services are generally affordable.

Finally, be sure to schedule regular maintenance for HVAC components like the air conditioner and furnace. Our technicians can spot any potential risks of pest infestation, such as condensation buildup in your AC condenser or issues with your duct and air flow system.

For more on preventing pest infestations from reaching your HVAC equipment this summer, or to learn about any of our plumbing or air services, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical today.

Congratulations, Utah homeowner: You’ve made it through the winter! This one was a heavy, wet cold season, one that surely placed a great deal of strain on your home’s plumbing and HVAC components – and now that spring is here, it’s time to assess where things stand headed into a big season change.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical, we can offer you a wide range of air conditioner and overall HVAC maintenance as your transition your home from the cooler season to the warmer one. Here are several areas many handy homeowners like to take care of themselves when it comes to spring AC and HVAC maintenance.

Filter Replacement

For starters, spring should represent a continuation of a major theme from every other season of the year: Changing HVAC filters. This should be done around once a month or so, depending on your precise filter type and a few other air quality factors, and this is the case throughout the year. If you have pets or poor air quality in your home, you may have to change your filters even more often than this.

Failure to replace filters properly has a few negative results. For one, your air quality will be notably poor, even awful if you let it go long enough. For another, a clogged filter will force the rest of the HVAC system to work harder on a daily basis, raising your monthly bills and wearing down various components faster.

Floor Registers

One of the simplest HVAC risk areas that may form over a long period without service, such as winter, is dirt, debris and hair of various types building up and making their way into your floor registers. The best way to prevent this sort of thing throughout the year is by regularly vacuuming and sweeping major areas, especially near registers.

It’s always good, however, to add a deep spring clean to your list. Remove each vent from the floor and clean it with soap and a strong brush or sponge, getting rid of both dirt and any rust present. Before reinstalling the registers, allow them to dry completely.

Air Vent Grill

You should also locate your return air vent grill in your HVAC system, and clean it thoroughly during spring. You can use either a vacuum or hose here, plus a rag or even a knife to get in between the grill spaces and remove and additional grime or debris.

AC Unit Cleaning

Finally, make sure you address the actual AC unit, which can be prone to significant buildups of debris and even random household items during the winter. Check for any such blockages that might impact the air condenser’s ability to properly pump air in and out, and remove yard waste that could interfere here. If any plants or shrubs have grown out to the point that they impact the condenser unit, trim these back or remove them.

For more on basic spring HVAC preparation tips, or to learn about any of our plumbing, heating or air services, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical today.

Tag: hvac maintenance