It’s the beginning of January, and we have a fresh new year ahead of us! By now, you may have set some New Year’s resolutions in place to help improve different aspects of your life. Whether it be financial, academic, fitness, or a personal goal, there are many areas that one can choose to better in their lives. Did you know that the worldwide tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions dates back to the ancient Babylonians? Although it was initially created as a way to pay homage to their king and to kick off the start of their year with a solid farming season of crops.
So, what does all this have to do with HVAC? Well, your local Wilmington Heating & Cooling experts want to help you improve your HVAC maintenance habits, too. Naturally, as a homeowner, you want your system running smoothly for as long as possible. This can be achieved by simply improving your HVAC habits with the eight following steps:
1. Resolve to Keep Up With Your Seasonal Maintenance APPOINTMENTS
We’ve said it before and will say it until the end of time – your seasonal maintenance checks matter! We know that sometimes it may be tempting to forgo a maintenance appointment when everything seems to be working fine, and nothing is wrong with your unit. But remember that the point of a maintenance check is to enforce preventative care. A lot of times, minor, unnoticed issues can continue for a good bit before they evolve into a more significant issue. When this happens, you risk long-term damage to your unit. On top of that, missing your seasonal maintenance checks will void your manufacturer’s warranty. This year, don’t wait for a breakdown to happen. Resolve to stay up to date with your seasonal maintenance checks by scheduling one for your air conditioner in the spring and one for your furnace in the fall.
2. Resolve to Change Your Air Filters on Time
This is one of the simplest things you can do to maintain your HVAC unit all year! Clogged and dirty air filters can make your system work harder than needed when they are bogged down with dust and airborne particles. When this happens, your system will consume more energy and cost you more money in the long run. You can make it a goal to check and change those filters every 1-2 months (as recommended per industry standards).
3. Resolve to Clean Your HVAC Vents FREQUENTLY
Dusty vents can adversely affect your home’s air quality and hinder your HVAC system’s efficiency. It’s a simple step, but making it a point to include your HVAC vents in your regular cleaning routine will help to keep those vents dust-free and really aid in boosting your overall air quality.
4. Resolve to Upgrade YOUR Thermostat
Are you still using a standard thermostat in your home? If you’ve thought about upgrading to a smart thermostat, this year is the opportune time to get your own! What’s the fuss all about, and why are they so helpful? Good question! By investing in a smart thermostat, you can remotely control your home’s temperature, making it easier to save energy and keep up with your HVAC system when you are at work or away from home for a trip. You can also set temperatures to automatically coincide with your weekly schedule. The good news is there are various affordable options available. So, start your year off the smart way with a smart thermostat.
5. Resolve to Check Your Attic Insulation
If your HVAC system seems like it’s constantly running and never takes a break. Or perhaps there are rooms in your home that don’t seem very well regulated; insufficient insulation in your attic could very well be the culprit! When proper insulation is lacking, it can cause the temperature in your home to constantly fluctuate in your home. When this occurs, it puts added strain on your HVAC system to keep up with the temperature. If you can safely check the insulation depth in your attic, we suggest doing so. Per industry standards, you should have at least ten inches of insulation. If you find out your attic insulation is any less than this, we highly suggest you consider forming a strategy to upgrade your insulation this year.
6. Resolve to Clean Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures Frequently
Dusty ceiling fans and light fixtures can also negatively impact indoor air quality and add strain to your HVAC system. Make it a part of your HVAC resolutions to include these components in your regular cleaning routine. This minor step can contribute significantly to improving the overall air quality in your home.
7. Resolve to Keep Your Condenser Clear
Regularly checking and clearing the vicinity around your condenser is a proactive resolution. Even during the winter, when the AC is inactive, make it a habit to inspect the condenser frequently. This preventative step can prevent unnecessary issues or breakdowns, ensuring your HVAC system operates smoothly. So, start making it a habit to check the vicinity around your condenser every now and then. Keep it clear of sticks, twigs, loose debris, and outdoor clutter to help prevent any unnecessary malfunctions, breakdowns, or damage to the unit.
8. Resolve to Get Your Ductwork Cleaned
Don’t underestimate the importance of clean ductwork for optimal HVAC efficiency and indoor air quality. Ducts, responsible for distributing air throughout your home, can accumulate dust, pet fur, and other debris over time. Industry standards recommend scheduling duct cleaning every three to five years. If it’s been a while since your last duct cleaning, especially if you have multiple pets in your home, prioritize having this service done in the upcoming year.
By incorporating these eight HVAC resolutions into your yearly routine, you’re setting the foundation for a healthier, more efficient HVAC system this year! Remember, preventive measures are key to avoiding unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs, ultimately extending the life of your HVAC system.
Call Wilmington Heating & Cooling at any time all year long (937) 764-3575, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
