As leaves fall in autumn, it is important to know that befalling can negatively impact your HVAC system. You might think: what damage can leaves cause to your HVAC system? Well, though they may seem harmless, they might cause some serious damage to your heating and air conditioning systems. You might even have to look for a furnace repair near you if the HVAC system continues to not function properly.
Let us look at some problems that can arise in your HVAC system due to fallen leaves.
Problems With Fallen Foliage:
Leaves that scatter around your HVAC system can sometimes land inside it. The outdoor portion of your HVAC unit that comprises the compressor and condenser coil might be the first to be affected by those leaves. Its main task is to expel the latent heat from inside your house, using a powerful fan to draw air from the sides and bottom of the unit.
So, if fallen leaves get accumulated at the bottom of your HVAC unit, the fan will be unable to disperse the latent heat. This will block the adequate airflow required. That, in turn, will make your HVAC system less efficient and more energy-consuming. You might find a surge in electricity bills because of such choking. The compressor unit and the condenser coil can suffer considerable damage due to the accumulation of dry, fallen foliage.
If you’re searching for furnace maintenance near you, contact an HVAC contractor. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to prevent the damage done by fallen leaves to your HVAC system.
Protecting Your HVAC System From Fallen Leaves:
Taking care of the outdoor components of your HVAC system is necessary. Without proper attention and care, there can be problems with your heating and cooling systems. Follow these simple steps to prevent HVAC damage from fallen leaves.
● Regularly remove debris and leaves from your system before it has a chance to pile up. Collect leaves tied up in a bag, so that wind cannot blow them around again.
● Do not let debris and leaves pile up within two feet of your HVAC system as a precaution.
● Properly clean your outdoor HVAC cabinet – from the inside and outside. You can even use an air blower to remove dust and leaves from all corners of the cabinet.
● If there is a tree near your outdoor HVAC cabinet with hanging limbs, shorten those limbs to prevent leaves from falling inside the cabinet.
● Make sure bushes, shrubs, or other plants are not growing too close to your compressor unit, as it needs space to operate efficiently.
● You can also purchase a cover for your external HVAC components to protect them from further damage by fallen leaves.
Apart from these maintenance tips, it is recommended to schedule an annual tune-up for your HVAC system. At 1st Response HVAC, we offer affordable repair plans for homeowners like you. If you think of HVAC service near you, just give us a call. When you contact us, you get a well-trained and professional technician who will ensure your HVAC unit’s safe and efficient operation so that you and your family stay comfortable all year round!
