Your home’s HVAC unit is a significant investment, especially if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions.
However, overworking the unit can shorten its lifespan and lead to costly repairs. It also leads to more emissions, increased utility bills, and can be a fire hazard. There are several things you can do to protect and not overwork the HVAC unit:
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Get a Properly Sized Unit
A unit that is too small for your home will have to work overtime to keep up with the demand. The HVAC should not run continuously for more than an hour.
If it does, this indicates the unit is too small. In addition, the unit should cycle on and off throughout the day to maintain a comfortable temperature.
If your unit is too small, upgrade to a larger one. Check out efficientairservice.com for advice and help to choose a suitable unit.
On the other hand, an HVAC that’s too large for your home will cool and warm your home faster. You’ll experience uneven temperatures, and the unit will shut off before it has a chance to remove the humidity from the air.
It leads to mold and mildew growth. The unit will also turn on and off more frequently, wearing down the components over time.
Change Filters Regularly
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your HVAC unit is to change the filters regularly.
The effort makes the unit run more efficiently and prevents dust and dirt from building up on the coils. Depending on your filter type, change it every one to three months.
Consider a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat saves money on energy bills by allowing you to set the temperature for different times of the day. For example, you can set the thermostat to a higher temperature when away at work and lower it when home.
Doing this prevents the unit from running unnecessarily and cooling or heating an empty house. It translates to minor wear and tear and lower utility bills.
Have Regular Maintenance Checks
Have the HVAC unit checked by a professional at least once a year. The effort identifies potential problems and allows preventative maintenance.
During these visits, the technician will clean the coils, check the refrigerant, and lubricate the moving parts. These measures prevent costly repairs down the road, keeping the unit running at peak efficiency.
Additionally, clean the outdoor unit and remove any accumulated debris. Leaves, grass, and dirt block airflow and cause the unit to overwork.
Invest in Adequate Insulation
The HVAC unit will work harder to keep the desired temperature if heat escapes through the walls or ceilings. Check your home’s insulation and seal any cracks or gaps.
This simple measure will improve efficiency and lower energy bills. Additionally, it will make your home more comfortable year-round.
As you carry out the exercise, address drafts by checking gaps around doors and windows. Caulk and weather-strip these areas to prevent heat loss.
If your windows are old and drafty, replace them with more energy-efficient models.
Avoid Blocking Vents
The HVAC will overwork when the vents are blocked. The issue prevents the unit from circulating air properly and leads to uneven temperatures.
Keep furniture and other items at least two feet away from the vents to ensure proper airflow. Regularly clean the vents to prevent dust and dirt from building up.
Be Mindful of the Temperature Setting
Avoid setting the temperature too low in the winter and too high in the summer.
Every degree above 68 degrees Fahrenheit in winter and below 78 degrees Fahrenheit in summer translates to an increase of three to four percent on your energy bill. Find the temperature that’s comfortable for you and stick to it.
Protect Your HVAC Unit
As you try out these tips, you’ll protect the unit by not overworking it. As a result, you’ll enjoy lowered energy bills, prolonged service life, and fewer costly repairs. A well-maintained system will improve air quality and ensure even temperatures.
