For one homeowner, a masonry crew's project around their property brought an unexpected concern: dust — and a lot of it — in and around their HVAC system.
Here's what to know
In Reddit's r/hvacadvice, a user said the masonry workers left their outdoor HVAC unit's condenser covered for the weekend without warning them. What's more, they did "literally zero dust mitigation" for the six weeks the project had been ongoing, and they said they initially kept the unit running because no one told them to turn it off.
A photo of the site shows a thick layer of dust on top of the unit.
"How bad is it? As long as it's working does that mean it's fine or could this significantly be reducing the lifespan of my new condenser?" they asked. These days, they said, they have been scheduling their HVAC to be off when work is underway.
As the post highlights, maintenance and upkeep can influence an HVAC's lifespan just as much as installation quality, equipment type, and environmental factors. For homeowners considering replacement equipment, Palmetto makes it easy to compare efficient HVAC and heat-pump solutions and connect with vetted installers through its Comfort Plan network.
More background
The homeowner said the project appeared to be driving up their electricity bills even though the workers were supposed to use common outlets. "My electrical usage has doubled compared to last year so it just seems like they're using whatever outlets," they shared.
But the dust was perhaps the most pressing concern with their air-quality monitor switched off.
"They are probably trying to shield it while they work," one commenter said of the covered unit. "Id recommend not running it even if its clear while they are working so it doesnt suck in dust."
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"I think you are misunderstanding.It has been running," the OP replied.
"I'm surprised it still worked without tripping high limit. There's literally no where for the hot air to escape," another worried. Others advised the OP to have a conversation with the contractor.
What can be done?
For homeowners already in need of a replacement, an efficient heating or cooling upgrade can help manage energy expenses and exposure to higher energy prices.
Palmetto's Comfort Plan offers $0-down options, with potential heating and cooling savings of up to 50% and 12 years of free maintenance.
For homeowners weighing even longer-term savings, pairing an efficient electric HVAC with solar can further manage utility spending and make a home more self-reliant. EasyHome offers a solar comparison-shopping tool to help homeowners compare offers and snag the best deal.
Where can I learn more?
Other homeowners have raised similar concerns about blocked airflow and AC upkeep.
• A renter said their landlord fenced in the AC before it failed during a heat wave.
• A homeowner's new AC units faced each other, prompting HVAC professionals to question the clearances.
• A Midwest garage owner received advice to skip the winter cover on a window AC.
• A homeowner discovered a badly clogged outdoor unit after skipping a 15-minute HVAC maintenance chore.
• A Georgia homeowner's AC ran 14 hours daily after a leak repair, prompting further concerns.
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