It’s January, and we have a whole new year ahead of us! You might have already set some New Year’s resolutions to improve different areas of your life—financial, academic, fitness, or personal goals. But did you know that the tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions goes back to the ancient Babylonians? They started it as a way to honor their king and ensure a successful farming season. So, what does all of this have to do with HVAC? Well, your HVAC experts at Lewis Center-Powell Heating & Air want to assist you in enhancing your HVAC maintenance habits this year. As a homeowner, it’s only natural that you want your system to run smoothly for as long as possible. You can achieve this by following these eight simple steps to make sure your HVAC system runs smoothly all year long!
8 NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS TO KEEP YOUR HVAC SYSTEM IN TIP-TOP SHAPE:
HOW OFTEN DO YOU SCHEDULE SEASONAL MAINTENANCE CHECKS?
Regular seasonal maintenance checks are crucial and should not be overlooked. Even if your unit appears to be working fine, preventative care is essential to address minor issues before they become major problems. Neglecting maintenance checks can lead to long-term damage and void your manufacturer’s warranty. This year, take the proactive approach by scheduling a maintenance check for your AC in the spring and one for your furnace before its first use in the fall. Don’t wait for a breakdown to happen. Stay up to date with your seasonal maintenance checks!
HOW OFTEN DO YOU CHANGE YOUR AIR FILTERS ON TIME?
Dirty air filters can cause your system to work harder, especially when clogged with dust and debris. This increased workload leads to higher energy consumption and long-term costs. You can prevent this by making it a goal this year to check and change filters every 1-2 months, as recommended.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU CLEAN YOUR HVAC VENTS?
Did you know that dusty vents can impact your home’s air quality and hinder the efficiency of your HVAC system? To improve overall air quality and lessen the strain on your system, it’s important to include regular cleaning of your HVAC vents in your cleaning routine.
HOW DO YOU MONITOR THE TEMPERATURE IN YOUR HOME?
Are you still using a standard thermostat at home? If you’ve been considering upgrading to a smart thermostat, now is the perfect time to do so! What’s all the hype about, and how can they benefit you? With a smart thermostat, you can conveniently control your home’s temperature from anywhere, helping you save energy and manage your HVAC system while you’re at work or away on a trip. You can even schedule temperature settings to align with your weekly routine. The best part is that there are affordable options available. So, start the year off smart with a smart thermostat. Feel free to reach out to us to discuss your choices!
HOW DEEP IS YOUR ATTIC INSULATION?
If your HVAC system is constantly running or certain rooms in your home are poorly regulated, the issue could be insufficient insulation in your attic. Inadequate insulation can cause temperature fluctuations and strain on your HVAC system. If it’s safe to do so, try to check the insulation depth in your attic. According to industry standards, you should have at least ten inches of insulation. If you find less than this, we highly recommend considering an insulation upgrade this year.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU CLEAN YOUR CEILING FANS AND LIGHT FIXTURES?
Dusty ceiling fans and light fixtures are another component of the home that is often overlooked. Just like your vents, when ceiling fans/light fixtures are overladen with dust, it can also negatively affect the indoor air quality and strain your HVAC system. So, an easy fix is to also include cleaning these components in your cleaning regimen. Luckily, a quick clean every now and then will suffice.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU CHECK ON YOUR CONDENSER?
It’s important to regularly check and clear the area around your condenser. Even during winter, when the AC isn’t in use, make it a habit to inspect the condenser frequently and ensure nothing has fallen onto or near it. You don’t want to risk not noticing if an outdoor item or something like a large branch or other outdoor debris has fallen onto the unit and has been there for an extended period.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU GET YOUR DUCTWORK CLEANED?
Do you remember the last time you had your ducts cleaned? Dirty or clogged ductwork can impact the efficiency of your HVAC system and the quality of indoor air. Ducts are responsible for distributing air throughout your home, so if they are filled with dust, pet fur, or other debris, it can negatively affect indoor air quality (IAQ). Generally, duct cleaning should be done every three to five years. If it’s been a while since you’ve had this service, especially if you have pets, aim to prioritize getting it done this year.
By following these eight HVAC resolutions throughout the year, you’ll improve the health and efficiency of your HVAC system. Remember, taking preventive measures is crucial to avoid unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs. Good practices can help you avoid HVAC issues and extend the lifespan of your system, ensuring a smoother and trouble-free year for you!
Call Lewis Center-Powell Heating & Air at any time all year long (614) 490-7530, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
