Your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems are crucial in maintaining good indoor air quality by providing proper ventilation and helping to create the ideal temperature. On average, an HVAC system should last between 10 and 15 years, but with proper maintenance and care, performed by a qualified HVAC technician, you can extend its life and reduce the need for costly repairs and replacements. You can do several things to get the most out of your system and save money in the long run. Meanwhile, research shows that proper maintenance can reduce energy consumption by up to 40% and increase your system’s life by up to 10 years. Continue reading to learn how you can make your HVAC last longer.
- Regularly change the air filters
Regularly changing the air filter is one of your HVAC system’s most important maintenance steps. Dirty air filters can reduce airflow and cause your system to work harder, leading to higher energy costs and damage to the system. Regularly changing your air filters ensures proper airflow and reduces the strain on your HVAC system. Changing the air filter every 1-3 months is recommended, depending on your filter type.
- Schedule regular maintenance
One of the best ways to extend the life of your HVAC system is to schedule regular maintenance. Regular maintenance can help to identify potential problems before they become serious and can help to keep your system running efficiently. This step involves many moving parts. That includes cleaning the condensate drain, inspecting the electrical connections, and replacing parts as needed. Checks by a professional HVAC technician can help extend the system’s life.
- Check that your air conditioner is properly installed
When installed, you may not consider the typical life of an air conditioning unit, but it can considerably influence how long it lasts. You must employ a competent contractor for the project. A skilled contractor will charge you extra, but they will ensure that your air conditioning unit components are properly installed. This reduces the possibility of unanticipated damage, extending the life of your HVAC system. Also considering installing a Unistrut channel to support your HVAC. It is robust enough to hold the weight of ducts and can be easily adjusted to meet changing requirements.
- Install a programmable thermostat
Using a programmable thermostat can positively impact your HVAC system’s longevity. Programmable thermostats allow you to set various temperatures for different times of the day, which can help reduce strain on the system by providing the exact temperature you require at any given time. Smart thermostats, the most recent advancement in thermostat technology, are simple to program and operate wherever via your mobile device or tablet. Some versions can assess your HVAC habits and schedule to implement energy-saving adjustments without programming. It’s easy to use your system less when you can regulate your thermostat settings, and it will last longer.
- Keep vents unobstructed
Keep your furniture, rugs, and other items away from your vents to keep them unobstructed. Since a blocked vent can strain your system, keeping it open and unblocked is essential. Be sure to remove anything that can impede airflow. Items such as debris and dust can cause your HVAC to overwork and affect efficiency. Finally, if you have a direct-vent or high-efficiency appliance, ensure the direct side wall outdoor vents and air intakes are not blocked.
- Install a humidifier
Installing a humidifier in your home can reduce the strain on your HVAC system. A humidifier will help to keep the air in your home moist, making it easier for the system to heat and cool the air. Keep your humidity levels between 30-50% for optimal comfort and to reduce the risk of damage to your HVAC system. Humidifiers add moisture to the air heated by your furnace, increasing the humidity in your home. It helps reduce the stress placed on the HVAC system and can help keep it running smoothly for a longer period. Additionally, using a humidifier can improve the air quality in your home, making it easier to breathe and helping to reduce allergy symptoms.
- Reduce heat sources
The home is filled with several heat sources, from lights to appliances. Unfortunately, they can cause your system to work harder than it has to. However, you can do a few things in and around your home to reduce the heat sources, including avoiding the use of the oven during hot months, avoiding the use of space heaters, and making sure any heat-generating appliances such as refrigerators, dryers, and stoves are well-insulated. It would help to turn off the lights and unplug appliances when not in use.
- Insulate your home
Insulating your home can help increase the lifespan of your HVAC system. Proper insulation acts as a barrier to heat loss or gain, helping to keep the temperature in your home consistent and reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do to maintain it. Proper insulation can also help reduce energy costs by decreasing the energy needed to cool or heat your home. Check for air leaks in walls, floors, and attics, and replace any old or worn-out insulation to ensure your home is properly insulated.
- Use ceiling fans
An HVAC system is one way to keep your house cool but it is not the only way. Air conditioner consumption may be reduced by combining it with other home equipment like ceiling fans. Ceiling fans can help reduce energy costs and extend the life of your HVAC system. They can circulate air throughout the house and help cool the air without using the air conditioning unit. Moreover, ceiling fans can help reduce energy costs by allowing you to set the temperature on your thermostat a few degrees higher and remain comfortable. When using a ceiling fan with the air conditioner, turn the fan off when you leave the room to avoid cooling the space.
Proper maintenance and care of your HVAC system are essential for keeping your home comfortable and energy efficient. By following these nine tips, you can make your HVAC system last longer and save money on energy costs.
