Tips, Safety, and the Dangers of a Running AC during Repairs
Have you recently closed on a house or purchased an older home to renovate, flip, or use as an Airbnb? Renovation projects can be exciting and exhausting simultaneously, offering upgrades you have always longed for while turning your home into an ongoing construction site for days, weeks, or even months.
It's essential to consider their impact on your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. Proper maintenance and understanding of potential risks keep your HVAC system functioning optimally and maintain good indoor air quality. Protect your HVAC system from being compromised during home renovations.
Important tips for HVAC maintenance during home renovations, safety considerations, and potential damage when running the AC during repairs:
1. Schedule HVAC maintenance:
Before embarking on any home renovation project, it's crucial to schedule regular HVAC maintenance. HVAC professionals can inspect and clean your system, ensuring it's in good working condition before the renovations begin.
2. Protect your HVAC system:
During renovations, construction debris and dust particles can easily find their way into your HVAC system, causing clogs, reduced efficiency, and even damage. To safeguard your HVAC system:
Close off supply and return vents: Before starting any renovation work, close the supply and return vents in the affected areas preventing dust and debris from circulating through the system.
Cover the HVAC system: Use plastic sheeting or specialized HVAC covers to protect the outdoor unit and any exposed ductwork from dust and debris.
3. Maintain good indoor air quality:
Renovations often release harmful particles and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. To maintain good indoor air quality:
Consider using portable air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture airborne particles and improve air quality in the construction area.
Open windows and use fans to provide adequate ventilation during renovations helping to exhaust pollutants and prevent recirculation.
4. The dangers of running your AC during drywall repair:
Drywall repairs usually involve sanding, which produces fine particles of dust. Here's why:
The dust produced during repairs can quickly clog the air filters, reducing airflow and forcing the system to work harder, leading to decreased efficiency, higher energy bills, and potential damage to the blower motor.
Fine dust particles from drywall can also accumulate on the coils, reducing their ability to absorb heat, resulting in decreased cooling capacity, increased energy consumption, and possible damage to the compressor.
Airborne dust particles can enter the ductwork, settling on the surfaces and diminishing indoor air quality. This leads to poor airflow, increased allergens, and potential health issues. Wallboard dust can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat, also causing respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis.
If harmful particles enter your HVAC system, it can be difficult and costly to clean. Replacing parts of the system may even be necessary.
When it comes to home renovations, proper HVAC maintenance is vital for ensuring a comfortable living environment and the safety of everyone involved. By following the tips discussed, you can minimize potential risks and maximize the efficiency of your HVAC system during the renovation process. With the right approach and attention to detail, you can maintain a well-functioning HVAC system that will keep your home cool and comfortable long after the renovations are complete.
Schedule post-renovation HVAC maintenance: Once the drywall and repairs are finished, schedule a professional HVAC maintenance visit.
Prevention is the best way to protect your HVAC system.
CONTACT WURKE BETTLER HOME SERVICES TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT.
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