Your HVAC system most likely isn’t the first thing on your mind when you wake up, but as a homeowner or a renter, you want to be sure your system is in good repair, particularly as we get closer to the winter months. If you’re trying to check off all of the boxes when it comes to great HVAC maintenance, here is a list of questions you should be able to answer so you know if you are on track:
- How often should I have my HVAC system inspected?
- How often do I need to replace filters?
- Should I set my thermostat?
- Do I need to have my system cleaned?
If you don’t know the answer to the above questions, a few minutes of research will help you at least get an idea of what you should be asking when you make the first appointment for your HVAC system.
Should I Have My HVAC System Serviced Annually?
The short answer to this question is: yes! At least an annual inspection is recommended by just about every HVAC business. The reason for this is because, over the course of a year, more dirt and dust can build up in your systems than you would think and if this goes unhandled, it can cause issues for your family. At the least it may reduce the level of heat exchange, which will impact whether or not your house heats properly. Dirt in your system’s coils can build up a barrier which will limit how much hot air is absorbed or released, forcing your AC to work extra hard to keep your home cool.
If you don’t feel like you need to have your HVAC system serviced annually you may find that your appliances still run, but you might not realize how inefficient they are. Annual maintenance to your HVAC system will save you money and frustration in the long run and could be the difference of a few more years of life that you get out of your AC or your heater.
When Should I Replace Air Filters?
It’s a good idea to switch out filters about every three months, or more often if you smoke, have pets or other allergens in your home. This is suggested for standard 1 inch filters, but before you purchase new filters, check to make sure you have the right size. Different units may have different filter sizes and they are not a one size fits all option.
Replacing air filters every few months might feel like a drag or a way that the producers get you to buy more of their products, but don’t underestimate their usefulness. In reality a clean air filter means cleaner air for you and your family. By replacing air filters regularly you could be saving yourself some serious sinus or allergy irritations and may even dodge a trip to your doctor.
How Can I Make My HVAC System More Energy Efficient?
The easiest way to make your HVAC system more efficient could be to leave your thermostat set to a slightly lower temperature. This would guarantee that either your AC in the summer or your heater in the winter don’t work on overdrive. If you have a smart thermostat, you should also be able to set it so that it stays cooler in your house if you and your family are out during the day and warms up in the evening when you get home from work or school. The opposite is also effective for the summer months, by leaving the house set to a slightly warmer temperature during the day and waiting until the late afternoon to cool things down. This way you aren’t spending money paying for your AC to keep your house nice and cool when no one is home.
If you already have a smart thermostat and use it regularly, you could look into investing in smart vents. These vents are automated with sensors to open and close in any given room to adjust that room’s temperature to a predetermined setting.
Should I Get My Ducts Clean Regularly?
While your air ducts still need to be cleaned, you can generally space their cleanings out around three to five years, potentially longer. Making sure you don’t let several years go by without duct cleaning, or at least an inspection, ensures the longevity of your duct system and its efficiency.
Your HVAC Questions Answered In Burleson And Arlington
If you’ve been putting off scheduling an HVAC inspection or perhaps you don’t even know where to turn, don’t let the fear of the unknown prevent you from proactively protecting your greatest investment – your home. Superior AC & Heat, with locations in Burleson and Haslet has been serving customers with great satisfaction since 1980, and we would love to help you understand the benefits and importance of regular HVAC servicing. Give us a call today at 214-679-8725 to find out how we can help you!
