Seven HVAC Tips for A Strong End to Winter
The most severe months of winter have passed, and the warm weather is about to take over as we await the spring. It usually means that the furnace will get its much-deserved rest. The mild incoming temperature gives you the best chance to work on your HVAC equipment without a harsh environment. If you’re one of those property owners who intend to end the winter on a positive note, you may find these end of winter HVAC tips helpful.
1 – Inspect The HVAC Filter
A handful of heating and cooling issues originate from the air filters. When your HVAC filters get too dirty, they cease to function the way they should. The dirt and other debris that clog the filters will prevent the air from getting in. This forces the system to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures. What you probably do not know is that a dirty filter means that the equipment will consume more energy.
Because the months of January and February are usually the coldest, the furnace is more likely to overwork just to generate enough heat. You must check your furnace filter and get rid of the debris that clogs it. You may also want to consider replacing it.
2 – Consider An HVAC Upgrade
We’re right in the middle of winter, so you probably don’t think about the prospect of upgrading your unit. Many homeowners choose to wait it out until the temperatures reach a point when they no longer need the HVAC system for an extended period. The issue with this line of thinking is that you’re wasting a lot of time, plus you’re putting your family at risk of discomfort for several months. It can also increase your energy consumption because you keep on using broken or malfunctioning equipment. You prevent that from happening if you respond to any issues with immediateness. Homeowners should replace a malfunctioning heater as soon as possible.
3 – Inspect The HVAC Ductwork
The air filters usually get clogged with dirt, but they’re not the only components that get dirty within the HVAC system. All sorts of debris will find their way to the ducts, eventually building up when you don’t perform regular cleaning and maintenance. When there’s a clog in the ductwork, it will overwork your system. A badly overworked system results in poor indoor air quality and could put everyone at risk of getting sick. Your ducts must be inspected and cleaned periodically, but you don’t have to do it yourself. Professional HVAC maintenance and repair companies can do the hard work on your behalf.
4 – Schedule An HVAC Maintenance
It’s never a smart decision to wait for the winter to pass by before you act. HVAC maintenance does not factor in the season or weather. Whenever you notice something is wrong, then you should respond accordingly. Many homeowners who perform spring cleaning will grab the chance to incorporate the HVAC system. If you act fast, you may be able to secure an early spring slot and eventually get the maintenance work done before the start of the mad rush. You want your air conditioner to be in tiptop condition as well right before the summer begins.
5 – Consider Upgrading Your Thermostat
If you aren’t prepared to replace your equipment, you at least should consider upgrading some of the essential system components, most notably the thermostat. You’d be surprised at the available options out there. Thermostat technology has gone a long way, with some models offering advanced features meant for convenience and efficiency. You should focus on getting a programmable thermostat that automatically adjusts the temperature according to your preferences at certain times of the day.
6 – Address Drafty Windows To Reduce Energy Loss
The presence of drafty windows at home causes air to escape. With the energy loss, your heating and cooling system will have to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. But those gaps on the doors and windows will eventually take their toll on your equipment. The easiest solution is to look for these gaps and seal them. If you find it hard to locate all gaps, then you probably would benefit from hiring an HVAC technician to help you.
7 – Clean The Outdoor Unit
Since the outdoor unit is exposed to the weather elements, you expect it to collect various debris, including but not limited to salt residues from the rain, gunk, dirt, stale water, and even dead insects. Those things can interfere with the normal function of the outdoor unit. So, if you don’t want to compromise its performance, be sure to clean it periodically.
Conclusion
The fact that the seasons change in a predictable manner means that you should use it to your advantage. Always think ahead and respond to what your HVAC system needs. The goal is to prevent the likelihood of an unnecessary repair and a total breakdown. Performing regular cleaning and maintenance also corresponds to longer service life and improved efficiency. There’s always the option of hiring an HVAC company to schedule your system maintenance.
Contact Tower Energy Today For Your HVAC Maintenance Needs
Tower Energy is the premier heating and cooling service in the area. We pride ourselves in being the best the industry has to offer, thanks to our NATE certified technicians. They are all equipped and trained to perform HVAC repairs, maintenance, replacements, installations, and more. Our technicians have the experience to handle all challenges related to HVAC.
By working with Tower Energy, you can expect competitive pricing. We’ll work around your budget in finding solutions that improve efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality.
Call Tower Energy today for your free estimate.
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