Your HVAC system is probably the most important piece of equipment you own. It keeps you cool in sultry summer weather and warm when it gets freezing cold outside. It is essential that you take utmost care of your HVAC system so that it does not break down when you need it the most. It is also important to prevent overloading your HVAC system during the peak season. Check out these simple tips to ensure that your system doesn’t get overloaded.
Ensure that the HVAC system is the right size for your home
If the HVAC system is too small for your home, it will have to work overtime to achieve the desired temperatures. This will eventually lead to overloading and breakdown. Also, if the system is too large for your home, it will cycle on and off frequently. This too can cause problems in the long run.
Keep up with routine maintenance
This is the surefire way to prevent most HVAC problems. Regular system maintenance helps fine-tune the various components of the HVAC system, cleans up all the dirt, and keeps your system running at its peak efficiency. This means the system will not have to work harder to keep you comfortable.
Use the thermostat smartly
Small changes can go a long way in preventing system overloading as well as in keeping your energy bills in check. When it is hot outside, just try setting your thermostat a couple of degrees higher than usual. You might not notice much of a change in your comfort levels but it can make a big difference to your HVAC system. Similarly, during winter you can turn it down by a couple of degrees lower than usual. It is a good idea to invest in a programmable thermostat as it lets you control the temperature when you are not home or you are asleep.
Make sure your vents and registers are clear
Over time, as air blows through the vents and registers, it can cause dirt and debris to accumulate. This can obstruct the airflow and cause the HVAC system to work harder than it should. For this reason, it is necessary to keep your vents and registers clean. You can dust or vacuum your vents. Better still, you can hire professional duct cleaning services for a thorough cleaning.
Change your air filter regularly
The air filters capture dust, allergens, dander, and all sorts of debris so that the air in your home is as clean as possible. When the air filters are clogged, the airflow gets restricted and it forces your HVAC system to work harder than it should. So, it is important to change the air filters every year or sooner if you live in a dusty environment or have pets.
Supplement with fans
Fans can increase air circulation, eliminating the need to run the AC constantly. If the air in your room is stagnant, you will feel warmer even if the temperature indicates otherwise. In fact, you can turn your thermostat up by a couple of degrees with your fans on.
Apart from doing these things you should also consider upgrading your doors and windows for better insulation and educate your family about conserving energy. Overloading your HVAC system can cause it to break down suddenly and prematurely, and necessitate costly repairs.
Preventive maintenance is the most important step to ensure that your system is always working at its top efficiency even during the peak season. Get in touch with us to know about our preventive maintenance plans.