Your HVAC system must run efficiently all year long while you’re either heating or cooling your home. This system is one of the most expensive things to replace for homeowners. When it stops working, you often must spend a lot of money for professional A/C service in Douglasville. Additionally, you have to deal without heating or cooling, which can be uncomfortable, depending on the temperature outside. Therefore, it makes sense to take the proper steps to prevent unwanted breakdowns.
Change your filter - or hire an HVAC service provider
Putting in a new filter is very simple, and any homeowner can do it. If you’ve recently had a new HVAC unit installed, you can ask your service technician to show you how to do it. But for the most part, it’s all about locating the old filter and replacing it with a new one. New filters can be purchased at a local hardware store. It’s a good idea to stock up on these so you can change the filter monthly.
Your HVAC system operates more efficiently with a clean filter. It reduces your energy costs and extends the useful life of your system. The most difficult part about changing a filter is remembering to do it. You may want to put a reminder on your calendar, but you can also buy filters that last longer than a month.
Adjust the thermostat - and save on HVAC service costs
To keep your HVAC unit running efficiently, it’s a good idea to take advantage of your programmable thermostat and adjust the settings. When you lower the temperature in the winter and increase it in the summer, you’ll probably notice a big difference in your utility bill. Additionally, your HVAC system doesn’t have to work quite as hard, which means it will potentially last longer.
If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, it might be a good idea to get one. These are relatively inexpensive, but because you can automatically program temperature adjustments for when you’re not home, adjustable thermostats can save you a lot of money each month and over the life of the A/C unit.
Schedule regular maintenance from an experienced HVAC service provider
HVAC systems include a lot of mechanical and electrical parts. These will get dirty and there’s nothing you can do to prevent that from happening. Thoroughly cleaning out the unit and replacing worn parts will go a long way toward making the system last longer. However, this type of maintenance should be performed by an experienced HVAC professional because it’s possible to damage the wiring if you don’t know what you’re doing. Most experts recommend annual inspections for your HVAC unit. Alternatively, you can get your A/C unit serviced in the spring and your furnace in the fall to help you get ready for seasonal temperature changes.