How to Protect Your HVAC During a Home Remodel
A lot goes into remodeling your home. From deciding on a contractor to setting (and sticking to) a timeline, there are many things to check off your to-do list. There’s one important aspect of home renovation that you don’t want to forget about, however, and that’s your HVAC system. Dust, debris and construction materials will likely be all over the inside, and the outside, of your home during the remodeling process. It’s important to protect your HVAC during a home remodel to ensure it’s still running efficiently after your renovations are complete. Here are three things to do to protect your home’s HVAC system during a remodeling project.
1. Keep It Clear
If you want to protect your HVAC during a home remodel, start by checking outside. Are any construction materials blocking or hitting your unit? It’s important all the time, not just during a remodel, to make sure that the area around your HVAC is clear. Experts advise that there should always be two to three feet of clear space around your unit. Any closer, and objects could obstruct the airflow.
This idea of keeping the area clear also applies to indoor spaces during a remodel. Make sure that any tarps, equipment or other items are not obstructing your vents. If you need to close particular vents throughout your home, try not to close too many at once. Doing so will keep the air flow as efficient as possible while your home is under construction.
2. Watch Out for Dust
Anyone who’s ever undergone home renovations knows things can get dusty – quickly. To protect your HVAC during a home remodel, try to stay ahead of any dust that accumulates inside. Whether it’s dirt, dust or other debris from sanding and cutting, it’s best to clean up these pollutants before they build up in your air filter. A quick daily sweep, vacuum or mop of the floor is enough to cut dust back significantly.
Speaking of air filters, prepare to change them more often during a home renovation. Normally, an air filter needs to be changed about every 30-60 days. Experts recommend checking (and changing) them even more frequently if you’re a pet owner or suffer from allergies. Your air filters will be combatting a lot more pollutants than during typical month during a home renovation, however. This means they will likely need to be replaced periodically throughout the time construction is being done.
3. Schedule a Tune-Up
Once renovations are complete, you can breathe a sigh of relief – almost. One final step to protect your HVAC during a home remodel is to schedule a post-construction tune-up. A licensed technician will be able to make sure your system is still operating properly, and did not get dislodged or otherwise affected during the construction.
A technician can also advise whether your HVAC system needs any additional cleaning to remove buildup of debris. Making sure your system is running properly is the best way to keep your home cool and comfortable, as well as save on your electric bills.
Make Annual Maintenance a Breeze
Whether you’re wrapping up a remodel or just need a tune-up, Barineau Heating and Air Conditioning’s Total Comfort Service Program might be the right fit for you. When you schedule a HVAC inspection, the technician will check things such as the electrical connections and accumulated dust. They will also check drainage lines and any potential leaks or issues with air flow. Staying on top of these issues can prevent small problems from developing into bigger – and more expensive – ones
Our plans include our 28-point inspection, exclusive discounts and services, and more. Contact our team or purchase a plan online today.
