When thinking about the elements that make a home comfortable, you might not immediately list a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. Good HVAC systems might not be as obvious as a comfy sofa or big television, but if you have a bad one, you’ll notice right away.
HVAC units last between 10 and 20 years. A new unit costs between a thousand and ten thousand dollars. So while you’ll have to replace your HVAC at some point, why not take steps to make your unit last as long as possible?
An HVAC professional can show you ways to maintain your specific system’s effectiveness. But no matter what kind of system you have, following these steps will make it last longer.
Change Your Air Filter Regularly
Your HVAC system’s filter catches dust and dirt from your unit before the air blows into your home. If the filter is too dirty, the whole system, and especially the fan, will have to work harder.
HVAC filters can last anywhere from 30 days to 3 months. The amount of time the filter can perform at optimal levels is specified on its box. Check your filters regularly. If they’re looking especially dingy, don’t hesitate to change them earlier than you’re supposed to. Your HVAC system will thank you.
Insulate Your Home Correctly
Improper insulation means that your home won’t be able to hold on to hot or cold air. The HVAC system then has to work overtime just to keep your home at the temperature you prefer. Your HVAC system will wear more quickly than it should, causing sky-high energy bills for you in the meantime.
The recommended insulation levels for your home vary depending on where you live. A professional energy audit can help you determine whether your home is adequately insulated and help identify any weak spots.
Proper insulation will help your HVAC have a long and productive life.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
Proper maintenance of HVAC systems is the single best way to ensure continued performance. Schedule two tune-ups every year. It’s best to clean your furnace in the fall before the cold winter months begin. Ideally, your air conditioner should be serviced in the spring, right before you use it heavily in the summer months.
If you’ve already missed the boat on pre-summer air conditioner maintenance, never fear. Search for “HVAC maintenance near me” and get your system the proper cleaning it deserves.
Invest in a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat can be easily controlled from your phone or tablet. Some models can even “learn” your habits and preferences, cutting down on the time your HVAC system is working needlessly.
The less you run your HVAC system, the longer it will last. Obviously, there are many times you can and should use it. But being smart about the temperature of your home will allow you to give your system much-needed breaks.
Buy a High-Quality HVAC System
We know that a good HVAC system can cost a lot upfront, but it’s more than worth it in the long run. A high-quality HVAC system won’t have to work as hard as a lesser-quality one, so it should last longer. And it won’t need many repairs if properly maintained. Best of all, an efficient HVAC system will keep your energy bill low.
An HVAC professional will be able to answer all your maintenance questions. But ultimately, it’s up to you to keep up with the appointments and checks that will keep your HVAC system in tip-top shape. It might seem overwhelming at first. But following these small habits over time will keep your home as comfortable as it can be.
At Service Patriots, we have extensive knowledge of HVAC systems. Whether your unit needs repair or maintenance, we want to help you. Call us today at 360-571-5100. We’re here to help!
