Regular HVAC maintenance in Shreveport, Bossier City or the surrounding area doesn’t have to feel intimidating or expensive. A few simple habits can keep your heating and cooling system running smoothly between professional tune-ups and save you money in the long run.
From cool, damp winters through Louisiana’s humid summers, here’s what our Shreveport HVAC company recommends to handle DIY HVAC maintenance tasks. Follow these tips to improve your HVAC’s efficiency and indoor air quality while extending its lifespan.
Can You Skip HVAC Maintenance?
No, it’s not worth the risk. Your HVAC system works hard year-round, and everything from dust to humidity and seasonal temperature swings will put strain on its components. A little proactive attention and care each month will help:
- Improve energy efficiency and lower utility bills
- Prevent small issues from turning into costly repairs
- Extend the lifespan of major parts like coils and compressors
- Keep indoor temperatures stable and comfortable
Professional service is still essential to keep your HVAC in good working order, but even small homeowner maintenance steps can go a long way to fill in some gaps in between annual visits.
Safety First
Before ever touching any part of your HVAC system, make sure to turn off the power at the breaker or disconnect switch. Wait a few minutes for the moving parts to completely stop.
Put on some gloves and a dust mask to avoid allergens, debris, and cleaning chemicals. If you notice any electrical issues, gas odors, or refrigerant leaks, stop immediately and call a licensed Shreveport HVAC technician. We’ll handle it for you so you can stay safe and protect your home.
As a general rule of thumb: If a task requires tools you don’t already own, or if you need to remove panels or wiring, let us handle your Louisiana HVAC upkeep for a hassle-free experience.
Tools and Supplies Worth Keeping
You don’t need a full workshop, but just a few basics make maintenance easier:
- Screwdriver set for removing vent covers
- Soft brush or fin comb for coil cleaning
- Wet/dry vacuum and garden hose
- White vinegar for drain-line cleaning
- Replacement air filters in the correct size
- Flashlight and gloves for inspecting tight areas
Keeping these on hand means you can handle most preventive tasks right when you notice them.
Time and Cost Estimates
Most DIY maintenance will take about 15 to 30 minutes per task.
- The cost for air filter replacement ranges from $10 to $25 for each filter.
- Coil cleaner costs between $8 and $15 per can.
- Vinegar drain-line flush costs under $2 total.
Any of these small efforts can save hundreds in utility costs and help avoid premature system replacement, which is an especially valuable trade-off during Shreveport’s long cooling season.
HVAC Maintenance Tasks You Can Do Yourself
1) Clean Out Return Vents and Registers
Move any furniture and curtains away from vents and use a vacuum brush to remove dust buildup. Clear, unobstructed airflow helps distribute heating and cooling evenly and prevents a strain on the blower motor.
2) Check and Clear Condensate Drain Lines
When the humidity in Shreveport hits, your drain lines can often collect algae or sludge. Locate the white PVC line near your indoor unit and pour a cup of one part white vinegar and water through the opening every few months to prevent blockages.
3) Inspect the Outdoor Condenser Unit
Keep the area around your outdoor unit clear by at least two feet. That means removing any leaves, branches, debris, patio furniture, and overgrown grass and weeds. Gently hose off the fins from the outside in, being careful not to bend them. If the unit has shifted on its pad, use a level and adjust it so it sits evenly.
4) Clean Coils Carefully
Dirty coils can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC. Use a manufacturer-approved coil cleaner or a soft brush on the condenser and evaporator coils. Never use harsh chemicals or pressure washers and rinse gently to let the system dry before turning it back on.
5) Check the Thermostat Settings and Batteries
The thermostat often gets overlooked as part of good HVAC maintenance. Review your thermostat schedule to make sure it matches your family’s normal routine. Replace the batteries once a year and verify that the display is reading room temperature accurately.
If you don’t have a smart thermostat, it’s a good time to switch to one. Smart thermostats can learn your habits and make small adjustments while you’re away. Although the changes may seem minor, they can lead to big savings on your energy bill. Call our experts at SBC Cooling + Heating for Shreveport thermostat installation to get your smart thermostat up and running.
6) Inspect Accessible Ductwork
Take a look at any exposed duct sections in your attic or crawl space. You want to identify any loose connections, gaps, or signs of mold or pests. If you can manage it, seal any small leaks with HVAC foil tape and not standard duct tape. It’s also a good idea to call our team for ductwork inspection and cleaning to maintain your HVAC system working properly and at its best.
HVAC Maintenance Tasks You Should Leave to the Pros
Some HVAC maintenance and tune-ups aren’t safe for homeowners or are too complex. Call a certified Shreveport or Bossier City HVAC technician any time you notice:
- Strange noises, odors, or short cycling
- Ice buildup on coils or refrigerant lines
- Weak airflow or rooms that never reach temperature
- Electrical sparks, tripped breakers, or gas smells
You should never attempt tasks that involve refrigerant, gas connections, or electrical rewiring at home. Our licensed technicians have the tools and training to repair these issues safely and get everything up-to-code.
Seasonal Maintenance Highlights
Before Summer:
- Change out air filters and clean coils for maximum airflow.
- Clear out the condensate drain to prepare for high humidity.
- Test cooling mode early to catch problems before the first heat wave.
Before Winter:
- Examine the furnace burner flame, which should be steady blue and not yellow.
- Inspect flue pipes for rust or loose joints.
- Clean out your supply registers and replace the filter again.
Set a reminder twice a year and use your DIY HVAC maintenance checklist. You’ll combat Shreveport’s combination of heat, humidity, and seasonal pollen and keep your system working at its best.
Call SBC Heating + Cooling
DIY HVAC maintenance doesn’t replace professional service, but it does go a long way to keep your system running efficiently. Spending a few minutes each month on simple maintenance helps your system run quieter, cleaner, and more efficiently and keeps your home comfortable through every season.
But when it’s time for professional maintenance, reach out to our HVAC experts at SBC Cooling + Heating!
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