Proper yard and lawn care can go a long way in keeping your home clean and visually appealing. Not only does your home property stay in good shape, but it also stays protected from unwanted damage from overgrown shrubs and tree branches. But did you know that how you maintain your yard can also affect your outdoor HVAC unit’s performance?
Poor Maintenance Habits Can Lead to Poor Performance
Neglecting your lawn can take a toll on your landscape including the area around your outdoor unit. For instance, the weeds and shrubs can block the air intake, which can effect how much it can pump cool air into your home. Even fallen leaves and twigs can affect your HVAC’s performance, especially if some debris get stuck in the fan.
When your outdoor unit is mounted on a concrete slab, it can become vulnerable with overgrown weeds underneath it. It can also be caused by improper watering and drainage, which makes the soil too soft to hold the slab. When this happens, the concrete won’t properly hold your unit firmly. This can effect the performance and lead to unwanted damage. To avoid this, you’ll need to call one of your trusted HVAC contractors to properly address the shifting concrete slab.
Protecting Your HVAC During Lawn Care
Before you start your lawn work, make sure to shut down the outdoor unit at the breaker. You’ll also need to remove any debris accumulated near and on the unit to ensure the airflow isn’t blocked. If you’re planning to mow the lawn afterward, allow the discharge to aim away from the unit so the cut grass won’t block the coil and inhibit airflow.
You should also trim any nearby shrubs, weeds, and other vegetation that are growing too close to the unit. Make sure to get at least two feet of clearance around it and dispose of the trimmings afterward so they won’t affect its performance. A protective filter is also worth investing in to keep fine bits of debris away from the unit’s coil and fan.
Whether you’re searching online for “HVAC construction jobs” or you are in need of a professional to maintain your unit, our team at HVAC Construction, Inc. is your best choice for the job! Homeowners in Salt Lake City and nearby Utah communities continue to trust us for their residential heating and cooling needs. Call us today at (801) 298-4822 for a free estimate. You can also fill out our online request form!