Your HVAC system is one of the hardest working components in your home or business. It runs year-round, even when you’re sleeping. A standard furnace and air conditioner should last 15 to 20 years, but you might get even more life out of your heating and cooling system if you remain diligent about following these three simple tips:
- The best way to extend the life expectancy of your HVAC system is regular inspections and maintenance, at least twice a year. You should have a technician inspect and service your whole system at the onset of spring, including the condenser, blowers, and pipes located outside our house. Any debris that may have collected inside the condenser during the winter needs to be cleared away. The fan needs to be lubricated and all electrical connections need to be inspected to ensure their integrity. The last thing you want is for your AC unit to cause a fire because of faulty wiring. An internal inspection is just as important. The technician should check the refrigerant levels in your air conditioner, and should check the heat exchanger of your furnace to ensure there are no cracks. All internal wires should also be checked. Once the leaves begin to fall, clear away any that have fallen inside the condenser and wrap the condenser in a cover or secure it beneath plastic with rope or bungee cords.
- Change your filters on a regular basis. A dirty filter chokes your furnace and AC, which makes them work a lot harder than just normal usage. Most homeowners change out their filters once a year, but it’s better to swap out for a clean filter more often, not less than twice a year, but once a quarter (each season) would keep your HVAC unit in optimal shape. In the spirit of clean airways, inspect your ductwork to ensure proper air flow.
- Keep your system set to the “auto” to ensure the fan runs only when it’s needed. You might consider installing a smart thermostat. They’re more expensive than a normal thermostat, but you’ll more than make up for the cost over the course of a year. A smart thermostat lets you establish any number of temperature programs to help with energy costs and gives you easy access on your phone or tablet. They also let you record information about your energy usage. Besides a lower energy bill, “smarter” use of your HVAC system will extend its lifespan.
If you want to talk more about the maintenance of your HVAC system, or you’re ready to schedule maintenance for your furnace or AC, contact the experts at Colley Refrigeration. We’d be more than happy to extend the life expectancy of your HVAC system!
