You may not spend a lot of time thinking about your HVAC system, but it is always working hard for you. From keeping you cool in the summer, to warm all winter long, it might be the hardest working piece of equipment in your entire house. But all of that work takes a big toll on the life span of your equipment.
You can help your HVAC system last longer, and work more efficiently, by proactively maintaining it. The following tips will help you create an action plan for care and upkeep.
Regularly change air filters
You’ve heard it before, but simply changing your air filters regularly can really help extend the life of your HVAC system. This is because dirty filters not only reduce the air quality of your home but force your system to work harder by reducing airflow. You can often find the lifespan of a filter on the packaging it comes in but be sure to check monthly. Even a 3-month filter may need to be changed more frequently under some operating conditions.
Schedule professional maintenance HVAC systems are generally low maintenance, so it’s easy to forget that they are working hard, 24 hours a day. In some climates, they work non-stop, all year long. You can do your part to extend their lifespan by simply having a professional inspect, clean and tune up your HVAC system. They can catch small problems before they turn into larger, more expensive ones. They can also help ensure that your system is running efficiently, which will keep your home comfortable and your utility bills in check.
Maintain outdoor units
If your outside unit is in direct sunlight, or directly exposed to the harsh elements of winter, it is working harder than it should. If it is under a tree or around other landscaping, debris can collect around it and limit airflow. All of these situations can negatively impact the efficiency and lifespan of your equipment. Take a close look at your outside unit to see if you need to take measures to protect it from the elements. If you aren’t sure where to start, call a professional for help.
Give it a break
Like any piece of equipment, constant wear and tear takes a toll on your HVAC system’s lifespan. You can give your system a break by scheduling some downtime. If you live in an area where the climate permits, use natural air flow and fans for cooling when possible. When you do have your system running, program your thermostat to reduce use when you’re not there. This will help you save money while giving your system a bit of a break.
HVAC systems represent a considerable investment, but they also keep your family comfortable all year long. By taking these steps you can help them last longer and run more efficiently. If you’re not sure how to maintain your system, contact us and we’ll be glad to help. And if you have an heating or cooling emergency, we can help with that as well!
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