Essential DIY Tips for Home Comfort Maintenance

Keeping Your Home Comfortable Year-Round

Maintaining your home’s comfort systems is crucial for ensuring a pleasant living environment throughout the seasons. While professional services are often necessary for major repairs, there are several DIY tasks you can perform to keep your air conditioning and plumbing systems running smoothly. Here are some valuable tips to help you maintain your home’s essential systems:

Air Conditioning Maintenance

1. Change air filters regularly: This simple task can significantly improve your AC’s efficiency and air quality.

2. Clean outdoor unit: Remove debris and trim vegetation around your outdoor AC unit to ensure proper airflow.

3. Check thermostat settings: Ensure your thermostat is programmed correctly for optimal comfort and energy savings.

4. Inspect ductwork: Look for visible leaks or damage in accessible ductwork and seal minor issues with duct tape.

5. Clean air vents: Vacuum and wipe down air vents to remove dust and debris, improving air circulation.

Plumbing Maintenance

1. Fix leaky faucets: Replace worn-out washers or cartridges to stop drips and save water.

2. Clear drain clogs: Use a plunger or drain snake to remove minor clogs before they become major issues.

3. Inspect visible pipes: Look for signs of corrosion or leaks in exposed pipes and address problems promptly.

4. Maintain water heater: Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup and improve efficiency.

5. Check toilet components: Replace worn flapper valves and adjust fill valves to prevent running toilets and water waste.

General HVAC Tips

1. Schedule professional maintenance: While DIY tasks are helpful, annual professional inspections are essential for optimal system performance.

2. Keep outdoor units clear: Ensure your AC condenser and heat pump have proper clearance from obstacles and vegetation.

3. Monitor energy bills: Sudden increases in energy costs may indicate system inefficiencies that require attention.

4. Insulate pipes: Wrap exposed pipes in unheated areas to prevent freezing and improve energy efficiency.

5. Test safety devices: Regularly check smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and GFCI outlets to ensure proper function.

When to Call a Professional

While these DIY tips can help maintain your home’s comfort systems, it’s important to recognize when professional assistance is necessary. Contact J. E. Shekell for expert service if you encounter:

– Unusual noises or odors from your AC or plumbing systems
– Significant changes in heating or cooling performance
– Persistent leaks or clogs that don’t respond to DIY solutions
– Electrical issues related to HVAC equipment
– Suspected gas leaks or other safety concerns

By following these DIY maintenance tips and knowing when to seek professional help, you can ensure your home remains comfortable and efficient throughout the year. Regular upkeep not only extends the life of your systems but also helps prevent costly repairs down the line. Remember, while DIY maintenance is valuable, complex repairs and installations should always be left to trained professionals to ensure safety and optimal performance.

J. E. Shekell is committed to providing top-quality air conditioning and plumbing services to homeowners in Evansville, IN, Henderson, KY, Vincennes, IN, Newburgh, IN, and Princeton, IN. Whether you need routine maintenance, repairs, or new system installations, our experienced technicians are here to help keep your home comfortable year-round.