So you’ve probably heard that it’s important as an HVAC unit owner to regularly check and replace your air filters. However, did you know that there is something else that you can do to help maintain the health of your HVAC unit? Have you ever noticed the “vents” placed throughout your home. Those grill-patterned metal things covering the hole in the wall are registers and vents, and they should be cleaned as often as they need it. The difference between a register and a vent, is that a register can be adjusted to increase or decrease air flow, while a vent simply covers the air duct without the ability to adjust air flow. In any case, both of these coverings should be taken off and cleaned regularly. This will lend itself to the cleanness of the HVAC system itself and even your indoor air quality, to an extent. Your air ducts themselves should also be cleaned thoroughly. Air duct cleaning can be performed by a homeowner with a vacuum, to an extent, but calling out a professional for a more thorough job is also a good idea! Ultimately, it’s a good idea to add cleaning vents, registers, and air ducts to your normal house-cleaning routine, and as always, don’t forget to change out your air filters when they get too dirty! They’re not able to do their job and air flow is restricted throughout your HVAC system when they are clogged with dirt, hair, and debris. All of this maintenance and cleaning is very basic HVAC know-how, and it’s something every homeowner should do!