Most homes require an HVAC to maintain a comfortable indoor environment despite changes in outdoor weather. About 90% of all households in the United States used air conditioning of some kind in 2020. And this number will keep increasing since comfort and indoor climate control become essential for every homeowner.
However, to make sure heating and air conditioning run efficiently requires more than just installing the HVAC system; it involves proper maintenance to ensure it runs for many years. In that regard, this article outlines three practical ways homeowners can maintain their HVAC systems for longevity.
Schedule Professional Inspections Annually
Perhaps the most important best practice in maintaining an HVAC system for longevity is to schedule professional inspections at least once every year. Homeowners should not postpone inspections since HVAC technicians are well-trained and can quickly spot potential issues before they can turn into costly problems.
The maintenance technician will be looking for worn-out parts during such an inspection, the level of refrigerant, and the performance of the overall system to conclude on the HVAC repairs needed. Any problem they spot is addressed instantly to prevent further damage and extend the life of the HVAC system.
Change Filters to Improve Air Quality
Want to know the secret behind the efficient, long-term use of an HVAC system? It’s regular air filter changes. These filters are integral to HVAC systems as they trap air particles such as dust and allergens. Filters are the most affected parts of the system if homeowners postpone or ignore maintenance.
If air filters are not replaced, the particles build up in them and obstruct normal airflow, thereby reducing this system’s efficiency. Homeowners should, therefore, replace the filters every 1-3 months, depending on how their HVAC usage patterns and air quality are in their homes. This way, the unit will run smoothly without a lot of malfunctions, which will prolong the system’s lifespan.
New air filters remove dust and debris from the air circulating in the house, improving indoor air quality. This reduces the risk of allergies and respiratory complications caused by inhaling contaminated air. Unfortunately, some people rarely think about the air quality and postpone maintenance practices until the system fails.
Clean the HVAC for Optimal Performance
The inefficiency caused by the dirt and debris accumulating around and within the HVAC system is quite obviously something no homeowner can afford to overlook. Cleaning the system is more important since the dust settles on major parts like evaporators and condenser coils, making the HVAC work harder than it actually should. Overusing the HVAC increases the risk of damage, which could shorten its useful life
Failure to clean the system leads to frequent breakdowns and expensive repairs that rob the system of precious years. Therefore, regular cleaning is critical if all the negative results of the accumulated dust are to be avoided. This maintenance practice is likely to extend the life span of the HVAC beyond the typical lifespan.
Homeowners can extend the lifespan of their HVAC systems and improve their efficiency by following these maintenance requirements. Professional checkups, replacing filters, and cleaning various components reduce the risk of HVAC breakdown and expensive repairs. Therefore, homeowners should take proactive steps today to save money over the long haul and ensure their HVAC system will continue to function reliably for many years to come.