Your HVAC system is at the heart of your home—working tirelessly this winter to maintain a warm and cozy home. Now, your focus turns to keeping the family as cool as cucumbers during this summer’s heat waves.
Even though it’s easy to take such continuous operation for granted, the constant effort of your HVAC system can take a toll. The system needs proper care and regularly scheduled maintenance to protect your family from Chicago’s varying temperatures, while helping you minimize the risk of costly repairs.
A sturdy, properly-installed, and well-maintained HVAC system should last between 12-17 years. Here are a few tips on how to protect your investment in this vital technology, and help to extend its life.
Change Air Filters Regularly
Most homeowners use disposable fiberglass or pleated filters, and it’s important to keep an eye on your air filter to determine when it needs replacing (typically every 3-6 months).
Even if it puts changing the filter ahead of schedule, dirty HVAC filters have got to go! A filthy air filter forces your system to work harder to move air throughout your house, thus impacting your home’s air quality and leading to higher energy costs.
Schedule Spring and Fall Tune-Ups
It’s recommended that your system receive at least two professional check-ups each year.
HVAC tune-ups by skilled technicians will include inspecting and lubricating all moving parts, checking refrigerant levels, cleaning the condenser, replacing filters, and checking for possible cracks. Further steps may be taken to ensure maximum safety, efficiency, and long-lasting performance.
Give Repairs Prompt Attention
Maybe your energy bills are increasing, or the temperature in your home doesn’t seem as comfortable as before.
You may be tempted to set aside these minor matters, thinking you can handle them later. However, putting things off today can result in a more complicated and costly problem tomorrow or next month.
Your HVAC system is a closely-entwined network of parts working together to keep the entire system operating smoothly. If something goes wrong in one area of your unit, it can create a domino effect of issues affecting the entire system.
Consider a Smart Thermostat
Aside from routine maintenance, installing a smart thermostat is one of the most effective strategies to improve the life of your HVAC system and to save money.
Smart thermostats are simple to program and control from anywhere using your phone or tablet. Some models can learn your habits and schedule and make energy-saving changes without requiring any programming at all.
In addition to extending the life of your HVAC system, a smart thermostat can significantly save on heating and cooling costs.
Give Your System a Break
Most systems have two fan settings:
- Auto has the fan operating only when the system is actively heating or cooling
- On tells your fan to run all the time
While the “On” position may help trap some dust and allergens, it also forces your HVAC system to work harder. Plus, if you leave your thermostat on the On setting, the filters will clog faster.
Whenever possible, think about turning off your system. Allow open windows, fans, and sweaters to do the light lifting, especially during the more temperate spring and fall months.
Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean
The outdoor unit of your HVAC system plays a critical role in the cooling process, and it’s important to keep it clean and free of debris to ensure efficient operation.
Occasionally – especially after a major storm – look for signs of damage and clear away leaves, twigs, and other rubbish accumulating around the unit. Keep the surrounding area free from overgrown plants or shrubs possibly obstructing airflow, and make sure there is enough space between the outdoor unit and walls or fences so the unit has plenty of room to breathe.
By following these tips, you can extend the life of your HVAC system, and save yourself the hassle and expense of frequent repairs and replacements.
We Help Homeowners
Flader Plumbing and Heating is uniquely suited to assist you in determining the solution that best fits your home and family’s needs. We’ve been serving your neighbors and our community for over 100 years and 4 generations.
The Flader Difference
Only Flader Plumbing and Heating delivers:
- The most responsive service. We’re here for you 24/7.
- Personal attention from certified and licensed technicians.
- The most dependable equipment and parts.
- Money-saving maintenance agreements.
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
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Flader Plumbing and Heating recommends equipment, models, and brands proven to have the fewest problems and service calls. We specialize in:
Comprehensive Services
Whether you want to maintain your air conditioning system, need a new water heater, or are looking to protect the air quality of your home, we are knowledgeable and provide expert service. Our professional technicians arrive on time, listen to your concerns, and answer your questions. They will recommend the right solution and deliver as promised.
Flader technicians average 15 years of experience and are EPA certified.
Expert service, quality parts, and satisfaction guaranteed. There is no reason to compromise. Call us at 847-491-6980.
