Now that summer is on its way out, some folks might think it’s time to let their HVAC system stay off and ignore regular HVAC maintenance.
That’s a bad idea.
As the popular saying goes, Winter is coming and you should keep your HVAC in tip-top condition. In fact, colder environments kill off more people than hot days in summer do! You must stay warm!
What steps do you need to follow? Don’t worry, we’ve got it all laid out for you:
1. Don’t Ignore the Air Filter
One of the most important maintenance processes you should do is to change your air filter each month. It is important to note that congestion happens whenever the filter becomes dirty.
With that, the system ends up working harder, making its lifespan shorter. Regularly changing the filters also guarantees better indoor air quality.
But the worst part is that your energy bills will increase the longer you wait before replacing your filter. The amount you save might not seem like much; it matters in the long run since the average yearly energy bills are $2,200. Even a small decrease can help!
Aside from monetary savings, you also gain some health benefits when you change the air filter. It helps maintain your air quality and avoid worsening the symptoms of allergies and asthma. With regular air filter replacements, you can remove a lot of the dust and pollen particles within your HVAC system.
Keep in mind that this should always be your first step. If it seems like your HVAC isn’t working or if it’s making weird noises, the first thing to do is look at your filters. It’s likely they’re dirty and need a bit of basic maintenance.
Only when you’ve done this and still end up with a malfunctioning HVAC should you move on to the next HVAC maintenance tips.
2. Always Check the Thermostat
If you haven’t gotten one yet, get a programmable thermostat. With this device, you’ll have the means of setting the temperature whenever you can. That means you can set it colder during the night or while you’re away at work or school.
To make the most out of the thermostat checkup, get an HVAC contractor. They’ll check your thermostat when they do a routine tune-up. This ensures that it is running at maximum efficiency and has the proper calibration.
If it isn’t working well, you’re likely paying more than you should. Worse, you’re not getting the heating you deserve. That’s why it’s important to get a programmable thermostat as soon as you’re able.
The thermostat mustn’t be close to any heat or cold sources when installed. A good location is an interior wall, away from sunlight. It also has an added benefit of having fewer drafts when it’s cold.
3. Beware of Carbon Monoxide Dangers
Your seasonal tune-up should have a professional HVAC contractor present. It’s especially when you’re trying to check whether your unit has carbon monoxide emissions. It’s hard to detect without the aid of proper equipment since it’s colorless and odorless.
If you don’t have the right tools, you won’t detect it until it’s too late. That’s why it’s important to get an experienced HVAC contractor. People can die from carbon monoxide poisoning, an issue you can avoid by calling in professionals to handle the maintenance job for you.
4. Seal Your House
If your windows and doors aren’t sealed tight, cold air can enter inside your house. That’s why you need to check your doors and windows for drafts. The best parts to start are the base and edges.
Once you find which doors and windows have a draft, start buying some rubber weatherstripping. This will help seal them up and prevent the draft from entering your home. The result is that cold air won’t get in and make your HVAC system work much harder.
Note that weatherstripping and caulking are the cheapest but the simplest and most effective means of energy conservation. This applies regardless of whether it’s summer or winter. If you don’t seal your home properly, you’ll add 10-15% to your energy bill.
Your HVAC system will also underperform if you don’t seal your house. That means the air won’t be as cold during the summer and warm during the winter.
5. Insulate the Attic
Another way to help make your HVAC system operate at maximum efficiency is lightening its load. Your attic needs the most insulation since it often makes warm air escape to the outside. With a properly insulated attic, your HVAC system will do less while maintaining your home’s consistent temperature.
It’s easy to know whether your attic has sufficient insulation. Make a visual inspection and see the height of the insulation material. If it isn’t high enough to obstruct the floor joists, then you must improve it. Otherwise, giving additional insulation will not give any benefit.
6. Replace Old HVAC Systems
Replacing your HVAC system is expensive because of its upfront costs. But if you have an old system, it’s likely inefficient and isn’t as comfortable. If your system is over 10 years old, you’ll benefit more if you get a newer model since your bill decreases significantly each year.
Even if you have to replace your old system, it’s still prudent to call in experts. They can help you determine which new unit works best for your budget, home design, and needs.
Practice Good HVAC Maintenance Today!
HVAC maintenance is a serious matter since it determines how long your system will last. It also determines whether you’re going to save a lot of money in the long run. That’s why it’s important to ensure that your system is efficient with these maintenance tips.
But to get the most out of your system, get a professional’s help. You can contact us today and we’ll help you maintain your HVAC system, regardless of the season.