Taking care of your HVAC system may seem intimidating, but it’s easier than you might think to ensure your home’s heating and cooling needs are always met. Anyone used to a property manager handling maintenance and repair of their home systems may not know where to start when it comes to HVAC maintenance, but there’s a lot you can do to make it more manageable. You may also be wondering whether or not signing up for a preventive maintenance plan or program is worthwhile. If you need to know more about your HVAC, read on to find out about the best way to extend the life of your system.
What is the best way to extend the life of your HVAC system?
While you can handle maintenance on an as-needed basis, the best thing you can do to protect your system is to sign up for an HVAC preventative maintenance program. There are several reasons why you should consider a maintenance program, but extending the lifespan of the system is definitely a big one. Your HVAC system needs regular maintenance if you want to keep it in good working order. By signing up for a maintenance plan, you can ensure your system is inspected twice annually by a professional, and it can even save you money.
Lack of maintenance can cause your HVAC to work harder to achieve your desired temperature, which can cause your utility bills to get more expensive. By having your HVAC unit serviced and inspected as often as recommended, you can ensure that even minor parts of your system are functioning properly. Moving parts can be properly lubricated, and electrical components can be evaluated for performance issues. When your HVAC’s parts are well taken care of, your bills should stay consistent.
When you’re proactive about maintenance, your system is likely to need fewer repairs in the future, and it can reduce the risk of a costly breakdown. If you do have an emergency, your maintenance plan will provide a discount on emergency fees, which can be useful when you need a repair on short notice. You should also ensure that your HVAC’s filter is changed regularly. Experts recommend monthly filter changes if you want your system to operate at peak performance.
How else can you control the climate inside your home?
When it comes to your HVAC system, a great way to improve its effectiveness is to invest in a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats are Wi-Fi enabled and work in conjunction with other types of home automation to give you more control over your indoor climate. They can usually be operated via your mobile phone, smart speaker, or computer. Many smart thermostats even use an algorithm to adjust activity based on your habits in order to reduce your energy costs as much as possible without sacrificing comfort.
The condition of your windows can also affect how warm or cool it feels inside your house. Cracks, crevices, and other forms of damage can allow outdoor air to get into your home, which can let in contaminants and affect the temperature. This forces your HVAC system to take on more of a load to maintain your preferred temperature, which can result in more expensive utility bills. Long drapes can provide an extra layer of insulation, but repairing the imperfections is the only thing that will eliminate the problem.
Keeping your home safe and comfortable might be more complex than it seems at first, but a preventive maintenance plan for your HVAC can go a long way toward protecting your household and the system itself. While you may think you’ll remember to schedule inspections twice a year, a maintenance plan will guarantee that you never skip annual maintenance. You’ll also be able to save money on emergency repairs and avoid more frequent breakdowns. Just make sure you also keep the rest of your home in good condition or you may not be able to enjoy the benefits of your HVAC system.
