As the New Year unfolds, many of us engage in the timeless tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions to improve upon different facets of our lives. This year, we are here to remind you not to forget to extend this practice to the heart of your home—the HVAC system. As your local HVAC experts, Centerville Heating & Cooling is here to guide you through eight resolutions that can significantly impact your comfort, energy bills, and the overall efficiency of your HVAC system throughout the year. So, grab a cup of coffee, relax, and let’s delve deeper into these essential tips to keep your system running smoothly all year long!
- Regularly Replace Air Filters: The air filters in your HVAC system are more than just accessories—they’re essential components. They filter out dirt, dust, and other particles from the air, ensuring optimal airflow and efficiency. By changing these filters every 1-2 months, you not only maintain peak HVAC performance but also improve your home’s Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). Keep in mind that the replacement frequency may vary based on your lifestyle, the number of people, and the number of pets in your home.
- Include Vents in Your Cleaning Routine: Vents often take a back seat in our cleaning routines. However, these seemingly inconspicuous elements play a crucial role in the efficiency of your HVAC system. Thus, regularly dusting and cleaning vents can have a significant impact on both air quality and overall system performance.
- Dust Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures: While air vents are commonly overlooked, so are ceiling fans and light fixtures! We get it; keeping house is certainly a chore. But remember that dust accumulation on these components can compromise IAQ as well. So, simply adding this step to your cleaning routine contributes to the gradual improvement of your HVAC habits.
- Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat: If you have not done so yet, take HVAC maintenance to the next level with a smart thermostat! These devices empower you to control your home’s temperature remotely, set schedules, and receive notifications for necessary repairs or maintenance. The result? Reduced energy waste and long-term cost savings. If you haven’t made the upgrade, consider exploring affordable options, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us for installation services.
- Inspect Attic Insulation: The insulation in your attic plays a pivotal role in maintaining a consistent temperature in your home. If certain rooms always feel too hot or too cold, or if your HVAC system seems to be constantly running, it might be due to insufficient attic insulation. Check the insulation depth. Did you know that industry standards recommend a minimum of ten inches of insulation in your attic? If yours falls short of this, think about planning an upgrade this year to improve energy efficiency and reduce the workload on your HVAC system.
- Professional Duct Cleaning: The ductwork in your home is responsible for distributing air throughout the house. Over the years, dust, hair, fur, and debris can accumulate, affecting both HVAC efficiency and IAQ. While not a frequent task, your ductwork should be professionally cleaned every three to five years. If yours haven’t been cleaned in a while, this year is the opportune time to have this service done!
- Regularly Clean Your Condenser: Your outdoor condenser, a vital component of your HVAC system, can suffer if surrounded by dirt, debris, and clutter. So, it’s a good idea to regularly inspect and clear the area around it to ensure optimal efficiency throughout the year. This simple habit can prevent unnecessary malfunctions, breakdowns, and damage to the unit. Even if it’s wintertime and the unit is not being used, it’s still best to perform a check every now and then to make sure nothing has fallen onto or near the condenser.
- Schedule Seasonal Maintenance Checks: Don’t underestimate the power of annual maintenance checks. While it may seem unnecessary when everything appears to be functioning smoothly, these checkups are the frontline defense against long-term damage. Plus, keeping up with maintenance preserves your manufacturer’s warranty.
In conclusion, weaving these HVAC resolutions into your New Year’s goals is a commitment to a well-maintained system, cost savings, and year-round home comfort. Remember, proactive maintenance is the cornerstone of an extended HVAC lifespan and protection against unexpected issues.
For all your HVAC needs throughout the year, count on Centerville Heating & Cooling. Call us at (937) 353-1169, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
