5 Tips to Keep Your HVAC Healthy and Long-Lasting

5 Tips to Keep Your HVAC Healthy and Long-Lasting

by Staff Writer
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5 Tips to Keep Your HVAC Healthy and Long-Lasting

In our daily lives, we rarely think about how our HVAC systems are doing. As long as they’re operating and working to a certain extent, they should be fine — right? This way of thi ...

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In our daily lives, we rarely think about how our HVAC systems are doing. As long as they’re operating and working to a certain extent, they should be fine — right? This way of thinking will eventually lead you into an expensive pitfall.

It’s important to take care of your HVAC so you don’t end up paying thousands on replacing your HVAC system. Ready to add years to your system? This post will cover 5 simple tips to keep your HVAC healthy and long-lasting.

  • Use a Programmable Thermostat

Unlike before, programmable thermostats are common and quite affordable. They are designed to keep your home as energy efficient as possible, helping your HVAC system work just the right amount. As soon as your home hits the desired temperature, the programmable thermostat will shut off the HVAC system. Having to do less work daily, your HVAC system will naturally last longer.

  • Change Your Air Filters

Most people have used air filters and have changed them out before — but they rarely change them enough. They don’t change their air filters until they see a notable decline in performance. Yet, by that time, the damage (e.g. overheating due to loss of circulation) has likely already been done.

The standard air filter should be changed once every three months, but we encourage you to refer to your specific air filter’s “window of effectiveness” labels. Also keep in mind that if you have pets or lots of visitors, you should change your dirty filters more often.

  • Make Sure to Clean Air Vents and Air Ducts Too

Just like how air filters can get clogged with dust and debris — so can your air vents and air ducts. The smallest particles can slip through air filters, and eventually find their way inside your HVAC system. As these small participles accumulate, your HVAC system will work a lot harder to perform the same basic jobs. Either DIY clean or work with a professional to ensure that your HVAC is debris-free and running optimally.

  • Schedule Annual Tune-Ups

Annual tune-ups can keep your HVAC system in the game and kicking. And, this option is far more financially sustainable than buying a new HVAC system. Professionals will check in on your system, identify any problem areas, and then make the necessary fixes. Tune-ups may seem like paying more in the short term, but it’s only a fraction of the cost of an all-out replacement.

  • Don’t Neglect the Outdoor Component of Your HVAC

As important as the inside of your HVAC system is the exterior seemingly hearty piece of equipment. Remove trash and debris around your unit. If plants are close by, make sure to trim the plants to keep branches away from the machine too. These two steps will help deter debris from flowing into the unit and clogging the unit.

You’ll also want to consider purchasing a shade (or building one) that can prevent the unit from overheating. This is especially the case for hot summers.