Seasonal Maintenance – don’t let Fall Leaves Wreck your HVAC Unit

02 Nov Seasonal Maintenance – don’t let Fall Leaves Wreck your HVAC Unit

Kingsport, TN

Fall is a beautiful part of the year when leaves change color and eventually fall to the ground. It’s wonderful to take in the natural changes of the seasons as the weather cools and the world becomes more colorful. But it’s also essential to be aware of the potential effects that falling leaves may have on your HVAC system. Our Tri-Cities area HVAC experts at Thompson Electrical Service explain why it’s crucial to perform seasonal HVAC maintenance to make sure your unit isn’t clogged with debris and dead leaves.

How do leaves affect my HVAC unit?

Before winter sets in, you must thoroughly clean the outdoor compressor if your heater is an electric heat pump. This is because an electric heat pump uses the outdoor compressor to produce heat for the air inside your home. Our Kingsport HVAC pros warn that your HVAC system won’t run effectively if leaves and other debris get inside and clog the compressor. If it becomes clogged, it can cause unneeded wear and tear on your HVAC system, as well as create uncomfortable indoor temperatures and increase your utility bills. For example, if

What can I do to protect my HVAC system from fall leaves?

You can take measures to preserve your system and guard against harm from debris and falling leaves during autumn. Before you begin any HVAC maintenance, turn off the power to your air conditioner. To do this safely, you should turn off the electricity in your home’s breaker box as well as at the outdoor switch next to your compressor. For your system to keep running smoothly throughout the fall and winter, try the following procedures our HVAC technicians in Bristol recommend after you turn off the power.

1. Remove Leaves and Debris

Clean the compressor/floor condensers of leaves and other debris. Considering how much has accumulated over time, there will probably be a lot to remove. Spend some time manually cleaning up this area or use a wet/dry vacuum.

2. Clean the Unit Walls

Your HVAC unit’s walls perform as a filter, using thin fins that slant in a design to keep out debris and leaves. Over time, the fins can become dirty or grimy outdoor elements and should be cleaned regularly using a water hose.

3. Clear the Surrounding Area

You should first thoroughly clean the inside of your unit and make sure it’s free of any leaves or other debris. Then, clear the area around the system of any vegetation or other objects that could reduce the unit’s efficiency. For the system to function properly, you should leave a clearance of about two feet around its perimeter.

What could happen if leaves enter my HVAC system and stay there?

The accumulation of leaves restricts airflow, lowers the effectiveness of your system, and raises your utility bills. Wet, decomposing leaves and other debris can emit acidic gases if they are left on your HVAC unit. Over time, this can cause the HVAC unit’s components to deteriorate and even develop minute holes where refrigerant can seep through. Our Johnson City HVAC experts explain that most homeowners end up needing a replacement unit when there is extensive damage or corrosion, which could be an expensive endeavor.

HVAC Service in Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport, TN

The best method to protect your unit is to periodically check it through the fall season and remove debris and leaves. Then, schedule a fall maintenance appointment with Thompson Electrical Service to make sure your HVAC system is ready to take on the harsh winter temperatures. You can protect the investment you have in your HVAC unit with a few seasonal activities and regular maintenance. Call our Tri-Cities HVAC pros at (423) 343-5726 to schedule an appointment today.