In our last blog post, we explained what the Department of Energy’s new AC and heat pump standards mean for you and your home. These efficiency standards are expected to raise new AC equipment prices by as much as 35 percent. Increasing your system’s efficiency and reducing wear-and-tear on your equipment is even more necessary than before.
You can avoid a costly, premature replacement by helping your equipment last as long as possible. The more time you have to budget for a system replacement, the better. When that time comes, you’ll be thankful you took extra measures to get the most out of your old equipment.
INCREASE EFFICIENCY
Helping your HVAC system run on less energy and operate at a higher efficiency will help you get as many years out of your equipment as possible. Follow these three tips to help your system work smarter, not harder.
#1: Schedule Biannual Maintenance
Scheduling biannual maintenance is the best thing you can do to take care of your HVAC system. During the maintenance appointment, the technician will ensure your system is thoroughly inspected and all its moving parts are aligned and lubricated. Ask your local HVAC company if they offer maintenance agreements so you don’t have to worry about scheduling two visits every year. Biannual maintenance will help make your system more efficient, keep it safe, and ensure it lasts as long as possible.
#2: Inspect Your Outdoor Unit
Take the time to inspect your outdoor unit and ensure it’s clear of all debris. Tall grass, weeds, and plants can interfere with your system’s ability to operate efficiently. Periodically cleaning your outdoor unit will help preserve the longevity of your HVAC system. Use a low-pressure hose to rinse and clear off debris, and use a soft scrub brush to remove anything that is still stuck on the unit.
#3: Schedule an Attic Inspection
You may be surprised that around 30 percent of heated or cooled air leaks out of the average duct. When this air ends up in your crawlspace or attic instead of your living area, your HVAC system will be required to work harder than usual. Scheduling an attic inspection with a professional that has superior knowledge of ductwork is essential. Have an experienced technician look for any problems in the ducts running through your attic and check your insulation. When your attic lacks proper insulation or has any air leaks, your system will have to run longer and more frequently, which can shorten its lifespan.
REDUCE WEAR AND TEAR
There are several things you can do at home to protect your HVAC system’s longevity. Use these three tips to minimize wear and tear on your equipment.
#1: Regularly Change Filters
While replacing your air filters seems like a small step, it’s crucial to reducing the wear and tear on your HVAC system. When air filters clog, your airflow will decrease significantly, resulting in higher energy consumption, overheating components, and possibly a complete system failure. Your indoor air quality could also be negatively affected. Changing your air filters at least once every three months will help you get the most out of your system.
#2: Keep Air Vents Clean
The air vents in your home will collect dust, debris, pet hair, and grime over time. If you don’t clean the buildup, it can impede airflow and add extra wear and tear to your HVAC system. At least once a month, remove the vent covers and use a wet-dry vacuum to remove debris inside the vents. Then create a simple cleaning solution of warm water and dish soap, and clean the surfaces of your vent covers.
#3: Program Your Thermostat
If you don’t have a smart or programmable thermostat, consider investing in one to reduce excessive wear and tear on your HVAC system. By programming your thermostat, you can tell your HVAC system only to run cycles when you are home. By reducing the number of heating and cooling cycles your system goes through, you can help extend its life.
PROFESSIONALS SERVING MANATEE & SARASOTA COUNTIES
Keeping your HVAC system running at peak performance is simple with Anthony's Cooling-Heating-Electrical. Our experts have the knowledge and tools to help you maximize your comfort. Get in touch with us today at (941) 347-0779 or contact us here.