Our home’s HVAC system keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, but no one ever talks about it. Giving your HVAC system the care it needs ensures it performs efficiently year-round. If you’re wondering how to keep it in top shape, these tips can help you maintain it like a pro.
Proactively looking into local HVAC maintenance options ensures your system gets the professional care it needs to stay efficient year-round. Let’s get right to the important stuff!
Why HVAC Efficiency Is Important
A good HVAC system does more than just keep your home comfortable; it also
- Saves energy: A system that works well uses less electricity, which means your energy bills go down.
- Cuts down on repairs: Regular maintenance keeps expensive breakdowns from happening.
- Better air quality: A system that is well taken care of keeps dust, allergens, and pollutants out.
- Longer life: If you take good care of your HVAC system, it will last longer.
You now understand why it’s important to take care of your HVAC system. Let’s look at some ways to do that.
Ways of How to Take Care About HVAC System
1. Make Plans for Regular Maintenance
Your HVAC system needs regular checkups to keep it running well. This is what regular maintenance looks like:
Hire a Master Plumber
Get a professional tune-up for your system at least once a year, preferably before the summer or winter, when it works the hardest. The techs will:
- Check and clean the parts.
- Look for signs of wear and tear.
- Make sure there is enough refrigerant.
- Check how well the system works.
Do It Yourself Inspections
Take some time between appointments to:
- Listen for strange sounds or smells.
- Make sure that vents and registers are not blocked.
- Check the accuracy of the thermostat.
When you keep up with maintenance, you can avoid inefficiency and expensive repairs.
2. Change the Filters Often
The air filter in your HVAC system is very important for keeping it running efficiently. When the filter gets clogged, airflow is limited, which makes the system work harder. To keep up with changes to filters, do the following:
Get to Know Your Filter Type:
There are different kinds of HVAC filters, from simple fiberglass filters to high-efficiency pleated filters. Read the owner’s manual to find out which one works best with your system.
Stick to a Replacement Schedule
Most filters need to be changed every one to three months, but you should check them every month if you:
- Have pets.
- Smoke inside.
- Live in a place with a lot of pollution.
A clean filter not only makes the system work better, but it also makes the air inside better.
3. Clean the ducts and vents
Dust and other particles can get stuck in the vents and ducts of your system, making it less efficient and less able to move air. Here’s what you can do:
Regular Cleaning
- You can clean the vents with a vacuum that has a hose plug.
- Use a damp cloth to clean the grilles and registers.
Professional Cleaning of Ducts
You might want to have your ducts cleaned by a professional every three to five years, or sooner if you see a lot of dust or mold. Cleaning your vents and ducts helps your system work smarter, not harder, and makes sure that air flows smoothly.
4. Make Sure Your Thermostat Settings Are Right
The thermostat is the control center of your HVAC system, so using it correctly can make it work much better.
Set Your Thermostat
If your thermostat can be programmed, set it to change the temperature on its own based on your schedule. As an example:
- When you’re not there, turn down the heat or up the AC.
- Get back to a comfortable level before you get home.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
To be more efficient, smart thermostats are the way to go. They learn your habits and change their settings on their own. You can also use an app on your phone to control them from afar.
5. Keep Your Home Warm and Closed Up
If your house is drafty, even the best HVAC system won’t work well. Here’s how to keep energy loss to a minimum:
Fix any air leaks
Check for gaps in windows, doors, and other openings. Weatherstripping or caulk can be used to stop leaks and keep conditioned air inside.
Put in insulation
Make sure your walls and attic have enough insulation to keep the temperature inside stable. Your HVAC system will work less hard if you have good insulation.
6. Keep the Unit Outside Clean
If your HVAC system has an outdoor condenser unit, you need to keep it clean so that it works well.
Get Rid of Trash
Get rid of the dirt, leaves, and other things that are lying around the unit. Cut back bushes and plants so that there is at least two feet of space between them.
Make Sure the Coils Are Clean
When coils are dirty, they don’t let heat move as well, which makes your system work harder. Turn off the power and use a garden hose or a coil cleaner to clean the coils gently.
By checking the outdoor unit on a regular basis, you can make sure that your system can breathe and work well.
7. Don’t Put Too Much Stress on Your System
Making small changes to the way you live can ease the stress on your HVAC system, making it work better and last longer.
Use Fans
You can set your thermostat a few degrees higher or lower without losing comfort if you use ceiling fans to move the air around.
Close Curtains and Blinds
If you block the sun on hot days, your home will stay cooler and your AC will work less.
Limit Heat-Producing Activities
Try these things this summer:
- Do not use an oven to cook. Instead, use a grill or microwave.
- Dishwashers and dryers should be used when it is cooler outside.
8. Keep an Eye on How Much Energy Is Being Used
Keeping an eye on your energy bills can help you find problems with your HVAC system. Energy prices going up quickly could mean:
- A malfunctioning component.
- Poor insulation.
- The need for a system upgrade.
By keeping track of how much energy you use, you can find problems early and keep up with maintenance.
9. Know When to Get a New Hvac System
Not every system lasts forever. If your HVAC system is more than 15 years old and breaks down often, it might be time to get a new one.
Why a New System Is Good
These days’ HVAC systems use less energy and are better for the environment. Moving up can:
- Spend less on energy.
- Make things more comfortable.
- Cut down on your carbon footprint.
Talk to a professional to find out what choices are best for your home and your budget.
Conclusion
Taking care of your HVAC system doesn’t have to be hard or take a lot of time. You can keep your system running well, save money, and be comfortable all year by following these useful tips.
Remember that putting in a little work now can save you a lot of trouble later. Get your hands dirty and give your HVAC system the care it needs.
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