Learning About HVAC Equipment

HVAC maintenance is something that you need to constantly invest in. You don't always need to spend a lot of money to keep up your system, but you do need to spend some time and monitor certain components to make sure they are running at maximum efficiency. Your HVAC is bound become less efficient over time, so you just need to do your best to reduce the loss of efficiency. One of the best things you can do as a homeowner with a limited budget is to keep a clean air return.

What Are Air Returns

Some people don't realize that not all of the registers mounted to the wall are intended for air blowing into the house. Usually, the larger registers, which are often just called returns, are where the air flows back into the duct system. That is, this is where air is been sucked into the ducts, and not blown out. Keeping your returns clean is definitely going to not only improve airflow in circulation throughout your house, but also helped to contribute to a healthier furnace system. If the air coming through your returns is dirty, your furnace is going to get dirty or quicker and become less efficient. Because of this, most returns have an in-duct filter mounted directly on the inside. This filter will often get dirtier than other filters in your system. Luckily, it is very easy to change and clean.

Cleaning Air Return Filter

Air returns can be removed from the wall by just taking out a couple of screws. Once you have the screws off of the wall, you can pull the filter out. Usually, it is most time efficient to just completely replace the filter, instead of trying to clean it. Filters are difficult to clean because the felt is so sticky. Return filters are also very cheap, so it is usually worth it to just buy a new one instead of wasting your time trying to clean it. While you have the register open, and the filter out, you should clean out everything you can reach with a hose vacuum. Any dust within your ducts should be vacuumed up. However, if you notice mold buildup on your duct walls, you should probably invest in a professional duct cleaning service.

In the end, maintaining healthy air returns is crucial when it comes to maintaining an efficient system with great airflow. Contact a company, like Right Now Home Services, for more help.