How Can I Extend the Life of My Home’s HVAC?
3 Easy Steps to Make Your Air Conditioning & Furnace Last Longer
Your home’s HVAC system is important. Not only is it the largest and most expensive appliance in your home, but it also determines the comfort of you and your family. When your furnace or AC breaks down, things can get uncomfortable fast. For such an essential home system, you want to ensure it lasts a long time with the best care possible.
Unfortunately, most people don’t think about their HVAC system until it’s too late. Suddenly you are dealing with a broken-down furnace in the middle of winter or an AC that won’t cool during a heatwave and chances are the more repairs you have to do on your HVAC system, the sooner you will need to replace it.
The pros at Western Heating and Air are here to help your system power through the heat waves and deep freezes. We will walk you through some steps you can take to extend the life of your system and keep you comfortable for many years to come.
Regular Maintenance
The best way to avoid an unplanned HVAC repair is to proactively take care of your system through regular maintenance. A tune-up gets your system ready for the season ahead. F urnace maintenance typically occurs in the fall to get ready for the cold temperatures, while AC maintenance happens in the spring to prepare for the summer heat.
During a maintenance visit, your HVAC technician will inspect, clean and service your unit. They will remove debris and dust to prevent things from jamming, tighten connections, lubricate moving parts, and catch issues that are waiting to happen. This helps your system avoid breakdowns that might require replacement sooner.
Did you know that Western Heating & Air offers a convenient Savings Club you can join for regular maintenance? It’s a great way to stay up to date on both your HVAC warranty and your maintenance.
Change Air Filters
We cannot stress enough how important it is to change your air filter. Your home’s heating and cooling system works in a cycle to heat and cool your home. If your filter is too clogged for air to pass through, it can cause serious problems with your unit. These problems can eventually lead to the need for a complete replacement.
Changing your air filters is something you can do yourself. It’s one of the easiest ways to prolong the life of your HVAC system. Most filters should be changed every 1-3 months but depending on the type of filter it may need to be changed more, or less often. Set a reminder on your phone, mark your calendar, or leave yourself a note to change your air filters. You will thank yourself one day for doing this simple yet essential task.
Consider the Temperature
Have you noticed that your air is constantly running all summer? Or maybe your furnace doesn’t stop in the winter? When systems are constantly running, they tend to wear out quicker. One thing you can do to prevent your unit from working overtime is to consider the temperature outside and your thermostat setting inside.
On a hot, steamy day in the ’90s, it is tempting to keep your house at a cool 65 degrees. However, this difference causes your unit to work harder and fail quicker. A good rule of thumb is to set your thermostat at 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter. This way you can stay comfortable without overworking your system.
Many customers in our area have also turned to smart thermostats to help control indoor temperatures. Smart thermostats use advanced technology to track your lifestyle and adjust your home temperature accordingly. It may turn your air up at night while you’re sleeping or cool down the house while you’re away at work in the winter. This adjustment helps your unit work smarter and better for the long term.
Simple Steps to a Longer HVAC Life
By following the previous steps, you can extend the life of your furnace and air conditioner, while avoiding costly repairs and enjoying a comfortable home. Connect with our team to answer any questions or concerns about your heating and cooling systems. You have a partner in Western and we are always happy to help!
