Your Carrier or Rheem HVAC system is essential for maintaining home comfort year-round. While you definitely want to have your unit professionally serviced and maintained, there are some things you can do to help keep it in good condition. You should be aware, however, that mistakes can lead to expensive repairs, serious injuries, and risk voiding your warranty.
In this blog post, we'll give you some DOs and DON'Ts for self-servicing your HVAC unit.
DOs: Safe and Effective DIY HVAC Maintenance
✅ DO Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean
One of the simplest and most effective things you can do is to keep your Rheem or Carrier unit clean. You're looking for dirt, dust, grass, and leaves that have accumulated. This sort of debris can block airflow and cause your system to work harder than it should.
You'll first want to cut off power to the unit. Also, be careful not to bend your condensor fins.
First, gently remove any debris from around the base of the unit. Next, vacuum the condensor fins, but carefully so as not to bend them. Use a hose to spray any of the leaves and grass that have built up. Lastly, you can spray the exterior of your unit with coiler cleaner, wait a few minutes, and then give it one more rinse.✅ DO Regularly Replace or Clean Air Filters
A dirty air filter is also going to block airflow, worsening performance and causing your system to work harder and increase your power bill. It's also going to affect the indoor air quality in your home. Check your filter at least once a month, especially during heavy-use seasons like summer and winter. If it's disposable, replace it with a new one of the same size. If it's reusable, give it a good rinse and let it dry completely before putting it back.
✅ DO Check and Adjust Your Vents
Ensuring your vents are clear and properly adjusted is an easy yet effective way to improve the performance of your HVAC system. First, inspect your vents to make sure none are blocked by furniture or anything else that could restrict airflow. Even small blockages can force your system to work harder and reduce efficiency.
There is a common misconception that you can save energy and money by closing vents in unused rooms, but this can create pressure imbalances in your system, making it less efficient and potentially causing damage. Instead, adjust the vents so that they direct airflow into the rooms you use most, and leave the vents in other areas open to maintain balanced pressure.
✅ DO Notice Signs of Trouble
Be on the lookout for signs of trouble with your Rheem or Carrier air conditioning and heating system. Here's a list of things to call your professional HVAC company about:
- Issues with electrical connections to your unit, such as frayed wires or corrosion.
- Strange sounds can signal an issue. Listen for clanking, banging, or any unfamiliar sounds.
- Certain smells can point to specific issues: A musty smell could mean mold or mildew in your ductwork. A burning smell could mean overheating components or electrical issues. A strong, acrid odor could point to something more serious, and you should call a qualified HVAC technician right away.
- Frequent cycling can mean a dirty filter, problems with your thermostat, or may mean an improperly sized unit has been installed.
DON'Ts: Avoid Damaging Your Unit
❌ DON'T Attempt Major Repairs Yourself
Air conditioning and heating systems are complex machines with high-voltage electrical components, pressurized refrigerants, and sensitive electronics, and so major HVAC repairs should always be performed by a trained and licensed HVAC technician. While there's a lot you can do, attempting a major repair yourself could lead to serious injury, damage your equipment, and void your warranty.
❌ DON'T Use Harsh Chemicals on Coils or Components
Avoid using bleach, ammonia, and strong household cleaners while cleaning your unit, as these may damage your equipment and lead to expensive repairs. They may also leave a residue that's harmful for your indoor air quality. Instead, use coil cleaner that's designed to be safe for your Carrier or Rheem unit, or stick with a gentle spray of water. If in doubt, reach out to an HVAC pro!
❌ DON'T Store Things too Close to Your Outdoor Unit
To ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating, give your unit some space! Avoid storing bikes, patio furniture, and other items too close. Keep at least 2 to 3 feet of clearance around your Rheem or Carrier unit or heat pump.
❌ DON'T Skip Regular HVAC Maintenance
One of those best ways you can keep your heating and air system in tip-shop is to schedule regular HVAC maintenance. It's the best way to maximize performance, exend system longevity, and stay under your Rheem or Carrier warranty.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you can self-service your Rheem or Carrier HVAC unit by keeping it clean, replacing or cleaning your air filters, keeping your eye on your vents, and monitoring for signs of trouble. Avoid damaging your unit by attempting to do major repairs yourself, using harsh chemicals, and blocking airflow. Schedule regular maintenance to keep your unit in good condition and extend equipment lifetime.
Engle Services offers Rheem and Carrier HVAC Installation, Maintenance, and Repair in Sylacauga, Talladega, Birmingham, Shelby County (Hoover, Chelsea), Alabaster, Pell City, Dadeville, Wetumpka, Montgomery, Fort Walton Beach (Florida) and all their surrounding areas.
Ready to schedule with our team of HVAC Technicians, Electricians, and Plumbers?
Schedule an appointment online or give us a call at (855) GET-ENGLE