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Here are six ways you can prolong your HVAC system’s lifespan and put off expensive replacements to save you money. Read on!
Replacing your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC) is going to be one of the most expensive maintenance projects you’ll embark on as a homeowner. Your HVAC system runs throughout the year and it’s inevitably going to need replacement at some point.
When the time to replace your system comes, it should be after you’ve taken as much care as possible for your system, so you need to make sure you’ve gotten the most out of what you paid for.
Prolonging Your HVAC System
If your unit’s lifespan is averaging above what’s expected, then you’re saving yourself serious money. But how would you know that despite your good efforts, it’s time to change your unit? There are some signs you can watch out for; if you don’t know, you can navigate to this website and get a guide on what to look for.
To extend your HVAC’s lifespan, you have to consider doing these few things:
1. Schedule Two Tune-Ups a Year
Luckily, you won’t have to break the bank for you to run maintenance on your HVAC. Waiting until your system has notable problems for you to do repairs is a route to disaster. The last thing you want is to do an emergency system switch up because your HVAC unceremoniously died on you.
You can always be one step ahead by scheduling at least two routine maintenance tune-ups done at a fixed time during the year whether the system is having a problem or running smoothly. It’s always best for a professional to identify all potential problems and deal with them.
During routine maintenance, they’re going to inspect and lubricate all moving pieces, wipe the condenser, clear all build-up from the tubes, assess the level of refrigerant, change filters, check for dents and cracks, and others that’d keep your unit in optimal condition.
2. Regularly Change the Filter
If you’ve already scheduled your two routine maintenance check-ups per year, should you relax on checking and replacing your system’s filter yourself? The answer is no. Because most homeowners use disposable filters that are meant to last between 30-90 days, it’s important to check how much dirt has accumulated in your filter even if it’s way ahead of your system’s check-up.
If left unchecked, the dirt will make it difficult for your HVAC system to circulate air, and this places enormous pressure on your fan as it needs to exert more effort to do something it’d easily accomplish with a new filter. Your goal is to relieve your HVAC system’s parts of any unnecessary pressure, so it can last as long as possible.
3. Use Your Fan’s Auto Setting
You’ll probably notice your HVAC system has two options for its fan. There’s the ‘auto’ setting and the ‘on’ setting. The onset does come with its advantages. Because it runs continuously, it’s able to trap more dust and it’s great news if you have allergies or any other respiratory condition. However, it also means your system has to work much harder and consistently. Your filters will clog up much faster, and this can mean more problems if you don’t change them in time.
On the other hand, using the auto setting will allow your HVAC to turn on the fan only during active heating or cooling, and this means the fan is only on when it’s most needed. Allowing it to rest lengthens your fan’s lifespan as well as that of your filter and the entire system in the long run.
4. Check Your System’s Condenser
Your system’s condenser is located outside your house, and it’s recommended to be checked from time to time. Don’t let any vegetation grow right next to it or let it be covered in leaves. It’s also advisable to check the condition of your condenser right after a storm or hail to see if there’s any debris or damage.
5. Improve Your Home’s Insulation
A simple hack to make your HVAC system function properly is to make sure it gets enough rest time and it doesn’t have to do more work than it’s supposed to. A great way to ensure your treated air stays indoors is to invest in good insulation for your home. Book for an energy audit to have your house inspected for insulation weak spots, then fix them accordingly.
6. Get a Smart Thermostat
Technology is continuously improving everyone’s life, and your HVAC system can benefit too. Getting a smart thermostat can help you program your unit to work less by making energy-saving adjustments that’ll help your system last longer.
Bottom Line
Your HVAC system works hard to make your home as comfortable as it is, which means replacing it someday is going to be inevitable. When you finally do, it’ll need you to be financially prepared as it can cost a considerable amount.
Improve your HVAC system’s lifespan by taking care of some of the above-mentioned maintenance works, and you’ll save yourself the headache of having to replace it too early.
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