Summer can be rough for air conditioning units, with higher heat and humidity significantly straining these systems. HVAC systems cool, heat, and humidify a space, but they can struggle to keep up with high demands. They can become strained, wear out faster and cause higher utility bills. To help prevent or mitigate these challenges, it’s best to take steps to keep your unit from wearing out prematurely and maintain its efficiency.
1. Replace Air Filters Frequently
Air filters are an essential component of any HVAC system. They help keep the unit running as efficiently as possible. Dirty air filters can clog easily, reducing airflow and causing your unit to work harder. This can produce extra wear on your unit and higher utility bills. If you have a reusable air filter, schedule it for cleaning every month. It only takes a few minutes. You can do it yourself or have a professional service perform the task.
If you notice signs of wear on your air filter, replace it before it worsens. Check your system’s owner’s manual or contact your HVAC technician to determine how often you should replace it. The best way to check if your air filter is dirty is to peek at it. Be aware that you can’t see how dirty it is by just looking at the outside. Look at the filters when they are clean and then again after they have been used for a while. The difference will be stark.
2. Inspect the System Regularly
Early detection is essential for limiting problems. It can eliminate some of the higher costs associated with replacing parts no longer in good working order. Look for obvious things like damaged or missing parts, issues with the filter, light bulbs and coils, and anything else that’s obvious. Check the joints of your system for signs of wear. Look for worn-out or frayed hoses, which can form leaks.
Take note of any repairs you make, including the type of parts and their size. Record all this information in your case log so that you can refer to it when making future decisions. If you suspect a leak in your system, bring it to the attention of an HVAC technician right away. An annual maintenance plan can help you manage your system more effectively.
3. Adjust the Thermostat
If you’ve noticed an increase in your energy bill, you may need to adjust your thermostat. You can do this by turning it up or down just a few degrees. Adjust it up if you’re too cold and down if you’re too hot. Ensure you are comfortable in your home, but also ensure that your unit doesn’t have to work harder than it needs to.
A programmable thermostat can be another excellent way to help you adjust the temperature when it’s most convenient. It connects to your Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control it remotely. You can easily adjust it to accommodate your schedule, when you are home, and when you aren’t.
4. Properly Ventilate Your Home
HVAC systems work best when your home is well-ventilated. When windows and doors are shut, and there is little to no airflow in the house, your HVAC system will work harder to keep up with the temperature needs. Identify and select the right window, door, or fan size to keep your home well-ventilated. An efficient window should have a U-factor of .30 or lower. A U-factor is a measurement of a window’s ability to handle heat transfer. The lower the number, the better it will be for keeping your home comfortable without losing too much heat.
Check your windows for signs of condensation, frost, or a foggy appearance. This may indicate a problem with ventilation and should be fixed immediately. If you use a fan to help with ventilation, choose one with a high-efficiency rating (ER). They will have blades that can move more air while using less energy.
5. Consider Having a New HVAC System Installed
This is not a good idea if you are already comfortable in your space, as these upgrades can be expensive. If your unit is nearing the end of its useful life, consider having a new model installed. This will help provide you with a more comfortable temperature in your home and save you money.
Older units also require constant maintenance. This can be a real drain on your wallet. If you notice that your unit uses a lot of energy, doesn’t cool or heat your home as effectively as it once did, or produces a loud noise when it runs, consider a new HVAC system. Consider your options carefully and shop around before making a purchase.
To keep your HVAC system running efficiently, you must take care of it continuously. Routine maintenance can help prevent problems from developing before they get out of hand. Coast A/C & Heat can provide the service and repairs you need to keep your units operating. We can provide the best quality products, service, and price in Vancleave , MS to ensure your HVAC system runs at peak performance.