Atlanta, Georgia – Warmer weather means homeowners can get to all those projects they couldn’t during the winter, such as improving their garden or remodeling their home. A remodeling project is a big task to undertake and if homeowners don’t pay close attention, it can cause problems to their HVAC systems. There are several things homeowners should keep in mind before they begin any project.
“I recommend my clients speak to me or one of my technicians before they begin any work,” says Phil Montgomery, owner of Atlanta Heating and Air Conditioning. “That way, we can work with them to keep their unit safe during the remodel project. Chances are homeowners are already spending enough on the remodel project, so they won’t want to have to spend even more on a new air conditioner by not keeping their unit protected during the work.”
One of the most important things to remember is not to run the AC unit while the work is under way. Remodeling project create dust from sawing and drilling, and all that moving around will kick up other dust and debris in the home. An HVAC system works by pulling the air in the home to heat or cool it, so if that air is filled with dust that debris will accumulate in your system and wreak havoc. A home’s ductwork can get clogged, which can force a unit to overwork, and eventually fail.
According to Lawrenceville air conditioning installation technician, homeowners can keep dust from entering their unit by closing the vents in work areas, whenever possible. Even when the unit is running, dust can enter in through the vents. Keeping vents closed will ensure dust cannot clog your system. It might also help to cover the vents or registers completely.
Ask those responsible for the remodel to cut or sand outside when possible. Not only will it be less of a mess for the homeowner, it will hopefully keep the HVAC unit cleaner as well.
Keep the work area as clean as possible. That might sound silly during a remodeling project, but by sweeping or vacuuming whenever possible, it will prevent dust from piling up and being able to clog the air system. It will also help if the contractor can keep the area covered by a tarp to prevent any dust or debris from flying up when the contractors aren’t working.
Homeowners should be prepared to change their air filters more often during a remodeling project.
“No matter how cautious homeowners are during a remodel, extra dirt and dust will always be there,” says Montgomery, whose licensed technicians also provide furnace maintenance. “Typically, an air filter is changed every few months. But during a remodel project, homeowners should keep a close eye on their filter and change it whenever it looks like it is too dirty. Be sure to change the filter as soon as the work is completed.”
After the project is completed, homeowners should consider calling their Decatur cooling expert to come inspect their unit. The technician can be sure the dust and debris created during the project didn’t clog the home’s system. The technician may also recommend a thorough duct cleaning to remove any debris that built up during the remodel. If dust remains in the duct work, it will be pulled through the system, which can cause the unit not to work properly.
Having duct work cleaned is especially important in homes that have never had them cleaned before. Years of dust and debris will have accumulated, along with the additional mess from the construction in the home. A professional duct cleaning can restore a home’s HVAC unit to be sure it runs at its peak. That means a home will have only the cleanest air circulating throughout it, keeping homeowners from breathing in construction dust long after the project is finished.
