Air Flow-Life of Equipment

One very important DIY maintenance detail we may forget, or totally ignore, is our air filters, fan, dryer vents, and many other items needing good air flow. Most of us are pretty good about changing air filters in our furnace. The dryer vent can really cause a lot of damage. So not only do we want to clean the obvious lint trap, we need to inspect the hose, and follow it to the outside of the house. Moisture traps the dust inside the pipe and outside vent. Air conditioning/Heat wall units gather a lot of dust as well as window AC units. When you see air intakes, there is usually a filter that will need regular cleaning. Some are reusable you can vacuum, or wash with soap and water. If you do the later, make sure the filter is totally dry before replacing. Every 6 months I move my Fridge away from the wall and vacuum the dust behind where the compressor is so it will run nice and smooth. The big jobs, like cleaning the dryer vent to the outside, is more of a yearly job where as others are monthly, or 3 months. Even your hair dryer has a place where the fan runs, that can get totally clogged. An old toothbrush usually takes care of that. Never put water in anything like a hair dryer, you could damage it. I hope this little tip helps you to remember Air Flow, is so important to all of your items that need a good steady stream of air