Your heating and cooling system is likely one of the biggest investments that you make in your home. With proper maintenance and care, it’s possible to squeeze years out of your equipment past what’s considered average. Many homeowners who regularly check airflow, maintenance, and usage can avoid breakdowns and keep their energy bills low. Read on for a homeowner-friendly guide to HVAC troubleshooting and protecting your system.
Know How Your System Works
Your heating and cooling system is only as strong as its weakest component. All systems depend on the heater or air conditioner, the blower or air handler, coils, refrigerant lines, ductwork, and thermostat working together. When one component has an issue, other parts have to work harder to compensate. Learning how these parts work together will help you identify problems early. Weak airflow, hot or cold spots, and longer run times are signals that something isn’t quite right. By troubleshooting minor problems early, you can prevent major damage to expensive components like motors and compressor units.
Why Routine Maintenance Matters
Perhaps the best way to avoid serious problems and keep your system running well is to invest in routine maintenance. Changing your air filters and having your system inspected by a professional each year keeps components clean, adjusted correctly, and running within safe operating parameters. Maintenance allows small problems to be detected early and can significantly improve system efficiency. Units that have been routinely maintained also experience fewer emergency repairs.
A qualified technician will do more than change your filter and flip the switch. Your safety controls, electrical connections, refrigerant levels, system performance, and wear points are all checked during a professional tune up. At Salmon HVAC, our technicians use routine maintenance as an opportunity to prevent expensive problems and keep your system running longer.
Filter Changes Make a Big Difference
If there’s one thing you can do to protect your HVAC system it’s changing your air filters regularly. Clogged and dirty filters are one of the leading causes of HVAC issues. When air filters become dirty, airflow decreases which causes your system to struggle moving air through the vents. Not only does this drive up your energy bill, but it puts additional wear and tear on motors and blowers.
Replace filters every 1-3 months for optimal performance. Homes with pets, allergies, or higher than average system usage may require more frequent filter changes. Filters are an inexpensive investment when you consider the protection they provide.
Manage Airflow Throughout Your Home
You should also ensure that air is able to freely move through your home. Supply vents and return grilles should always be open and never blocked by furniture or area rugs. Restricting airflow can cause your system to overheat or freeze up cooling coils and create hot or cold spots throughout your home.
Airflow should also not be restricted in your ductwork. Leaky ducts or ducts that aren’t insulated can dramatically decrease your equipment’s efficiency. Not only does this require your system to run for longer periods of time, it can create wear if ducts run through an unconditioned space like your attic or garage.
Use Smart Thermostat Habits
We never think about it but how you operate your thermostat has a big impact on your equipment’s lifespan. Excessive temperature swings and constant adjustments can wear out your system. Instead of drastically changing setpoints, maintain a consistent temperature and use setbacks when you don’t need maximum comfort.
Programmable thermostats and smart thermostats make this process easy by automatically changing temperatures based on your schedule. Using your thermostat efficiently can decrease your energy usage and ease stress on your system.
Keep Outdoor Units Clean
Your outdoor unit requires plenty of airflow to dissipate heat. This means keeping grass trimmed and giving the unit at least 2 feet of space on all sides. Leaves and debris can also build up outside of your unit and cause it to overheat.
Taking a few minutes every season to clear debris and gently clean the coils on your outdoor unit can improve efficiency and prevent serious damage.
Know When to Call a Professional
Strange noises, excessive humidity, short cycling, or unexpected increases in your energy bill could all be signs that it’s time to call a professional. Many homeowners make the mistake of ignoring these red flags which can lead to costlier repairs down the road. Preventative maintenance and inspections are the best ways to keep your system running smoothly and stay ahead of any problems.
Salmon HVAC’s inspection services and maintenance plans are designed around manufacturer recommendations and real-world experience. We want to equip homeowners with the knowledge and resources needed to make smart decisions about repairing or replacing their equipment.
A Smarter Way to Protect Your Investment
Keeping your heating and cooling system running for years might seem like a daunting task, but homeowners can avoid most issues with some knowledge and preventative maintenance. Clean filters, adequate airflow, smart thermostat use, and yearly maintenance all contribute to protecting your investment. Reduce strain on your equipment, improve performance, and keep your home comfortable for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my system serviced?
Experts recommend having your system professionally serviced once per year. Homes that use their equipment for both heating and cooling should consider servicing it twice yearly, once before cooling season and once before heating season.
What are some signs that my system needs maintenance?
Some common signs include inconsistent temperatures, weak airflow, strange noises, short cycling, or high energy bills. Restricted airflow or worn-out components are typically the cause.
How often should I replace my air filter?
For most homes, air filters should be replaced every 1-3 months. Pet owners and allergy suffers will want to replace their filters more frequently.
Will my thermostat really make a difference?
Yes! Your thermostat may be small, but it plays a major role in your system’s lifespan. Avoid excessive adjustments and use consistent temperatures throughout the day. Many homeowners don’t realize that by setting your thermostat back during times you’re asleep or away from home can save money.
Should I repair or replace my system?
If your system is getting up there in age and has needed multiple repairs over the past few years, it may be time to start looking into replacement. Your trusted HVAC provider can help you weigh the costs of repairs vs. efficiency losses to make an informed decision.
