Since HVAC systems are among the largest home investments, you expect them to serve you for a long period of time. You can do so by taking proper care of the system to extend its lifespan and improve efficiency. Avoid unnecessary costly repairs and save your Clearwater, FL, energy bills by changing the following bad HVAC habits.
1. Ignoring Smaller Issues
Even if you notice a small problem with your air conditioning system and it isn’t seriously affecting it now, it’s best to address it sooner rather than later. Over time, the issue will worsen, causing costly repairs, high energy bills, or a premature breakdown. Hire a professional technician to fix problems as soon as you notice them.
2. DIY Repairs
Don’t attempt DIY jobs to save money when your system needs repairs unless you have the proper tools and training. You’ll probably cause more harm than good, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. The fees you use to hire trained and experienced HVAC technicians are worth it because they have the necessary knowledge and tools. Contact Pinellas Comfort Systems if you require any air conditioning repair services.
3. Ignoring Preventative Maintenance
One of the bad HVAC habits you might be making is failing to schedule preventive maintenance twice a year. When technicians arrive for maintenance, they clean the system, check it for problems, and make the necessary repairs or replacements. Preventive maintenance helps to keep the HVAC system functioning optimally and lowers energy costs.
4. Blocking or Closing Vents
Closing the vents with the assumption that you will save energy is wrong because the opposite happens. Ensure that curtains, furniture, or other objects don’t block air vents or air filters and cut shrubs that could cover the exterior unit. Obstructions only restrict airflow through your home, ultimately reducing the HVAC’s lifespan. If you have airflow issues with your system, contact Pinellas Comfort Systems for air duct cleaning services.
Change these bad habits if you want your HVAC to remain efficient. Work with reliable HVAC contractors for professional services. Call us at Pinellas Comfort Systems to schedule preventive maintenance and help you make the most of your HVAC system.
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FAQ’s
Why should I have regular (or preventive) maintenance? And how often should I have it performed?
- Your heating and cooling systems work incredibly hard to perform their functions for your home every day. The constant stopping, starting, and continual operation can wear down any machine if the proper care and maintenance are delayed. However, by performing regular maintenance, you can maximize the lifecycle of your heating or cooling unit and guard against many common equipment failures. Preventive maintenance inspections performed on a regular basis can uncover leaks, rust, rot, soot, frayed wires, and corroded electrical contacts. You should have maintenance completed on your system regularly to ensure maximum efficiency and prevent possible problems that may occur in the near future.
What equipment requires regular (or preventive) maintenance?
- Heat pumps and air conditioners require a professional tune-up twice a year; in the spring and fall. Inspections on boiler and furnace systems should include ductwork, pipes, dampers, valves, the chimney, registers, radiators, pumps, blowers, fuel lines, oil tank, and every part of the actual furnace and boiler. Meanwhile, heat pump and air conditioning unit inspections should also include inspections of the fan, compressor, indoor coils, outdoor coils, and refrigerant lines.