Replacing an HVAC system is a major investment. Taking good care of your home’s existing system is essential for extending its operational life, while ensuring the highest level of energy efficiency and preventing common problems that may require expensive repairs. Essentially, extending the life of an HVAC system is a simple matter of ongoing maintenance.

The Semi-Annual Tune-Up

HVAC experts and energy agencies agree that the best way to extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment is to schedule annual preventive maintenance at the beginning of each season. If you have a heat pump that both cools and heats your home, schedule one maintenance check for each season.

Regular Filter Changes

A dirty air filter is the number one cause of many HVAC problems. Proper airflow depends on a clean filter, which also helps prevent dust from entering the system. Dust buildup on essential components like coils, heat exchangers and air handlers, vastly reduces efficiency and may seriously damage these components. Inspect your air filter each month is you utilize the standard filters and at least every other month if you have an extended life filter. When the standard filter is clogged with dust, replace it with a high quality, pleated model.  Follow the instructions for extended life filters to know when best to replace these special filters.

Load Reduction

The less intense your HVAC system has to work to keep you comfortable, the less wear and tear results. Here’s how you can help your system last longer:

• Seal air leaks in your home. When your HVAC system has to cycle more frequently to compensate for air leaks, the system loses efficiency more quickly, resulting in more wear.
• Seal leaky ducts with mastic sealant. Ducts in the typical home can lose up to 40 percent of air inside through loose joints. This makes the system work harder to replace lost air.
• Install a programmable thermostat, and keep it set to no higher than 68 degrees during the winter and no lower than 78 degrees during the summer. You should set your thermostat back by 10 degrees for eight hours a day to shave off up to 15 percent on your heating bills.

For more expert advice about extending the life of your HVAC system, please contact Powers Heating & Air in Peachtree City serving all of Fayette, Coweta and surrounding counties.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Credit/Copyright Attribution: “bitt24/Shutterstock”