If there’s one thing you can count on when you’re remodeling, it’s dust. Somehow those tiny particles get into everything — even your HVAC system. Unlike the other areas in your home, dust in your HVAC system can cause very real and potentially expensive problems.
Dust and dirt doesn’t mix well with any machinery. Your HVAC system is no exception. Depending on the circumstances, you might just get some extra wear and tear that leads to repairs down the road. On the other hand, you might get such severe damage that you have to repair or replace the system immediately.
How can you protect your HVAC system during remodeling? Here are some steps to take:
- Talk to your HVAC contractor before the remodeling job starts. Your contractor will have ideas for how to minimize damage from dust. He can also look at your plans and help you spot any potential HVAC issues before the work is done.
- If at all possible, keep your HVAC system off during the remodel. Since dust is in the air, preventing your system from cycling air keeps a lot of dust out of the system.
- Close off your vents and/or use vent covers to help prevent dust from getting into your system. If you’re having to use your system, only close off vents in the worst areas to allow some air flow.
- Clean as often as you can. Sometimes it’s difficult or impossible to clean during a remodel. If you have the opportunity, remove whatever dust you can before it gets into the HVAC system.
- If possible, do dust-creating tasks outside. Certain tasks, like cutting boards, could be done outside where the dust isn’t as much of a problem.
- Change your filter frequently. During remodeling, change it once a week to every two weeks. Even if you’re not using the system, change the filter when all the work is done. It will still have some dust on it that can make your system work harder.
For more information about protecting your HVAC system while you’re remodeling your Dayton area home, contact Ace Hardware Home Services today.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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