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Your HVAC system works hard to keep your home comfortable year-round, cooling in summer and heating in winter. A well-maintained system ensures better performance and cost savings. So how can you keep it running efficiently and extend its lifespan? Here are our top tips.
Regularly Change Air Filters
The air filters in your HVAC system play a crucial role in maintaining proper airflow and air quality. Over time, filters can become clogged with dust, pet hair, and other particles, which forces your system to work harder and reduces its efficiency. To prevent this, check your air filters monthly and replace them at least every 1-3 months, depending on factors like usage, allergies, or the presence of pets in your home. Clean filters ensure smooth airflow, better air quality, and lower energy bills.
Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance
No matter how diligent you are with DIY maintenance, there are some things only a professional can address. Scheduling an annual inspection with an HVAC technician, or seeking AC repair like those available in Ogden, is essential for identifying potential issues before they become costly repairs. Professionals will check components like the refrigerant levels, electrical connections, and overall system efficiency. A yearly tune-up keeps your HVAC system running smoothly and ensures it’s prepared to handle extreme weather conditions without a hitch.
Keep Vents and Registers Clean and Unobstructed
Blocked or dirty vents and registers can restrict airflow, making your HVAC system work harder than necessary. Take time to regularly vacuum and clean your vents to remove built-up dust and debris. Also, avoid placing furniture, rugs, or curtains over registers or vents, as this can obstruct airflow and reduce efficiency. Proper airflow is key to maintaining even temperatures throughout your home while reducing unnecessary strain on your HVAC system.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to set your HVAC system to adjust temperatures automatically throughout the day. This not only saves energy and reduces costs, but it also helps maintain consistent temperatures without having to constantly adjust the thermostat manually. Some thermostats also come with features like smartphone control or learning capabilities, which can further increase efficiency and convenience.
Consider Your Landscaping
The placement of your HVAC unit and surrounding landscaping can have a significant impact on its performance. Ensure there is at least two feet of space around the unit for proper airflow.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can do wonders for optimizing your HVAC system’s energy use. By setting your thermostat to match your schedule, you can reduce unnecessary heating or cooling while you’re asleep or away from home. For example, during colder months, you can program your thermostat to slightly lower temperatures at night and return to a comfortable level just before you wake up. This not only saves energy but also reduces wear and tear on your system over time.
Seal and Insulate Ducts
Leaky ducts are one of the most common causes of energy loss in HVAC systems. Even small gaps or cracks in your ductwork can lead to significant inefficiencies, as conditioned air escapes before reaching your living spaces. Inspect your ducts for any obvious leaks and seal them with mastic sealant or duct tape. Additionally, insulate ducts in unconditioned areas like basements or attics to further reduce energy loss. This ensures your system delivers heated or cooled air efficiently, keeping your home comfortable while lowering energy bills.
Conclusion
Your HVAC system is an investment in your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. By regularly changing air filters, scheduling professional maintenance, keeping vents and registers clean, using a programmable thermostat, and sealing your ducts, you can ensure it operates at peak performance.
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