HVAC systems are among the most expensive home systems that you can own. Because it’s so costly, you want to expand its life to the maximum limit. To do this, you need to take good care of it. This means that you should perform regular checks and repair any problems that occur.
You can view this HVAC company as a reliable partner that can help you maintain and extend the life of your HVAC system. Some common problems that occur with HVAC systems include clogged air filters, thermostat malfunctions, and refrigerant leaks.
Keep in mind that minor problems can grow bigger over time. This leads to higher repair bills or replacement costs just because you avoided taking care of the small ones. Read on to find out more about HVAC Systems and their maintenance.
Replace Air Filters Often for Efficiency
Regular maintenance and taking care of minor repairs is one of the best ways to keep your system in optimum shape. One thing you should pay attention to is the air filter. HVAC systems circulate the air which then passes through the air filter. Any particles like dust, mites, and pollen will remain in the filter, helping to keep your indoor air quality good.
When there is too much debris in the filter, it won’t be able to work properly. Not only will all of those unwanted pollutants go back into the air, but a dirty air filter will also cause your system to strain to work even harder. And your energy bills will increase.
Therefore, it’s very important that you change the filter minimum of three times a year. However, this interval can depend on many factors. For example, if you have a family member that is allergic to pollen, you should change the air filter more frequently, especially during spring and fall.
If you have a pet, the chances of your filters getting clogged sooner are higher. Always perform regular checks to see when the air filter is clogged and needs to be changed.
When to Replace HVAC Systems
Every home appliance and system has a specific lifespan. At some point, you will need to replace it with a new one. And the same goes for HVAC systems. But, how do you know when it’s time to buy a new one? Here are a few things to consider:
Use a Formula
There is a simple formula you can use to help determine when it’s time for a new HVAC system. Generally speaking, if any needed repairs cost more than 50% of what it would cost to buy a new unit, then you should consider getting a new one. Minor repairs and regular maintenance won’t require so much money. But when the estimated cost is too high, it’s time to replace the HVAC.
Average Lifespan of HVAC Systems
Another thing to consider is your current systems’ age. On average, HVAC systems usually last somewhere between 10 and 15 years. Of course, this depends a lot on whether or not you kept up with routine maintenance and how well you took care of the unit. If you took good care of your device, then it will last for longer.
Electricity Consumption
Check and compare your monthly electric bills. If your bill begins increasing over time, then it could be a sign that your system isn’t working properly.
You should also take into consideration your current system’s age. If you have an older model, it’s a lot more likely to use more energy. Modern systems are designed with energy-saving features which can greatly reduce the amount you pay for electricity.
Discomfort
Pay attention to your level of comfort. If you notice a difference in temperature between rooms, or if the temperature isn’t holding steady, then it’s a sign that something isn’t working properly with your unit.
You should also look for signs of bad ventilation. If you notice more dust or sudden mold spots, this means that something isn’t right with your HVAC system.
Odd Sounds
Listen to how your system sounds. You’ve most likely had your HVAC for years, so you know the sounds that your unit makes. Faulty systems will produce unusual and strange sounds.
Professional Maintenance of HVAC Systems
One of the most important things you can do to care for your HVAC system is to schedule regular maintenance by a professional. Generally speaking, you should schedule professional maintenance at least once per year. Twice is even better.
Professionals will check things such as your system’s wiring, measure the airflow, and check efficiency, all of which are things you can’t do by yourself. Plus, there might be some hidden issues that only a trained professional can spot.
It is always better to be safe than sorry, so don’t avoid hiring a professional. Ask for help from a reputable company when you experience an issue, or need yearly maintenance.