HVAC systems are important to homeowners and business owners, as they are central in keeping your indoor environment comfortable. In order to keep your HVAC system running efficiently year-round, it’s important that you keep it well cleaned and maintained. Below, we’ll offer you some tips for doing just that.
Seasonal Checklist: Keep Your HVAC System Running Efficiently
To keep your HVAC system running its best while efficiently heating and cooling your home for many years, you’ll want to follow these guidelines.
Once Per Month: Check Your Air Filter
Air filters are the easiest part of an HVAC system to maintain, and paying special attention to your HVAC’s air filter can increase your system’s longevity. Once per month, check your air filter for buildup and debris. When your filter gets dirty, it’s time to change it. A dirty air filter can cause excess strain on your system, which will make it break down over time.
If you have pets, consider investing in a special air filter that better traps pet dander and debris. You can find a wide variety of air filters at home improvement stores as well as at various retailers online. Check your current filter for proper dimensions before purchasing a replacement.
Once Per Year: Get Annual Maintenance
Getting an annual checkup on your HVAC system is the best way to ensure peace of mind that your system is functioning at optimal efficiency. By getting regular maintenance, you’ll be aware of any issues in your system before they become major problems. With regular maintenance, your HVAC system will last longer, preventing you from having to make an unexpected costly replacement purchase if your system breaks down.
Each Spring and Fall: Unblock Vents and Registers
Make sure that all of your vents and registers are completely clear of obstructions, including furniture, objects, or piles of clothes. Blocked vents can make it very difficult for your HVAC system to regulate the temperature in your home. blocked vents will prevent your HVAC system from properly heating or cooling your home, since the system will force air out of open vents rather than allowing the air to move evenly throughout your home. Fabrics and other materials that are blocking vents can also cause problems by “shedding” threads and lent into your vents, so keep your vents and registers free of obstructions.
During the Winter: Lower the Temperature of Your thermostat
When colder temperatures hit, it’s tempting to want to crank up the heat. However, you’d be better served to set your thermostat to as low of a temperature as comfort permits. By setting a higher temperature on your thermostat, you are increasing the burden on your HVAC system. Over time, this unnecessary increase in energy will wear down your HVAC system and cause it to work less efficiently sooner.
When company visits, set your thermostat even lower. Groups of people create body heat requiring even less energy use from your heating system. For every degree you reduce your thermostat setting, you can save approximately 3% in energy costs.
During the Summer: Seal Up Your Ductwork
In the summer, you’ll most likely be turning on your air conditioner quite often. Before it gets hot outside, have your ducts inspected and allow an HVAC professional to seal any gaps, tears, or leaks in your ductwork. Simply by doing this, you can reduce unnecessary strain on your HVAC system by making sure the cold air gets where it needs to go and isn’t escaping through small leaks in your ductwork.
If you’re interested in having your ductwork inspected and sealed, we at Hader can help. Give us a call today to find out more: 513-612-9201.
