Nothing beats walking into a cool, air-conditioned house at the end of a hot day. However, if you don’t ensure proper HVAC system maintenance, your days of cool comfort may get numbered. The good news is that there are specific HVAC system maintenance steps you can do right now to extend the lifespan of your HVAC system and keep your home cool.
According to Indoor Air Quality Association, regular HVAC system maintenance can reduce the risk of costly breakdowns by as much as 95%. If you properly maintain your HVAC system, it should last for a long time without wasting money on expensive repairs.
In this comprehensive blog, we will unravel 7 expert tips you can follow to keep your HVAC system in optimal condition. We will also share the HVAC equipment life expectancy chart so that you know how long HVAC systems last and when you should repair or replace your HVAC.
So, without wasting any time, let’s delve into the world of HVAC systems and unravel the top 7 HVAC system maintenance tips:
1. Planned Annual Maintenance
Modern HVAC systems don’t require much maintenance, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to maintain your HVAC system at all. Your air conditioner and furnace should be examined, cleaned, and tuned up by a professional HVAC installation & repair service in Toronto at least once a year.
If you want efficient performance from the very first day you may require it, we suggest you schedule your HVAC system maintenance in the spring and furnaces in the late summer or early fall.
That way, if the technician finds a major problem with your system, you will have enough time to fix it before the season begins.
Most HVAC system maintenance will involve a thorough inspection as well as lubrication of all moving parts. Checking the refrigerant levels, clearing away any clog or buildup in the condensation drain tube, cleaning the condenser, changing the filters, and inspecting the heat exchanger for any cracks are all regular services.
Other tasks may be performed by your HVAC professional to assist the system more efficiently and safer and to guarantee it lasts as long as possible.
2. Replace The Filter Regularly
A clogged air filter forces your HVAC system to work harder to move air around your home. This is extremely hard on the fan, but the entire system suffers when it can’t breathe.
According to Angi, replacing a dirty filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5 to 10%. This, in turn, reduces your electricity bills. How about that for saving money?
Though your HVAC system maintenance professional will check filters during the inspection, it’s your responsibility to keep them in check. The majority of homes utilize disposable 30-day fiberglass filters or 3-month pleated filters, which should be checked on a regular basis. If they are unclean, they should be replaced immediately, even if it is ahead of schedule.
3. Select The “Auto” Fan Option
Most HVAC systems have two fan settings: “Auto,” tells the fan to operate only when the system is actively heating or cooling, and “On” tells the fan to run all the time. Some systems include dual-speed fans, which enable a slower, more energy-efficient fan setting to be selected between heating and cooling cycles.
There are certain advantages to choosing the “on” option. It traps more dust, and in households with people who have respiratory sensitivities or allergies, it can make breathing easier. The main negative is that it causes the system to work significantly harder, which shortens its life.
It also causes filters to clog up faster, so if you don’t change them regularly, you could be damaging your system. Keeping a keen eye on fan options is an excellent approach to HVAC system maintenance.
4. Inspect Your Condenser
Your air conditioner’s condenser is located outside your home and is designed to withstand the weather. However, it can be destroyed by hail or windblown debris from strong storms. Examine your condenser for indications of damage every now and again, especially after a heavy storm.
While you’re about it, remove any leaves or weeds accumulated on or around the condenser. Cut down any vegetation that is growing directly near the unit. Your condenser requires breathing space too. Otherwise, mold growth can wreak havoc on your HVAC system maintenance.
5. Upgrade Your Insulation
You would want to use your HVAC system as less as possible to make it survive longer. But at the same time, you want to keep the treated air inside. So what to do here? Insulation is the best option, providing resistance to heat flow and lowering your HVAC system maintenance costs.
Your attic is the most critical spot to check for appropriate insulation. The quantity and kind of insulation required vary by the area you are living in; therefore, check the Environmental Protection Agency’s insulation climate map and insulation upgrade standards.
If your property has insufficient insulation, you may consider insulating your basement or adding extra insulation to wall cavities. A professional energy audit is the best approach to identifying and assessing your insulation flaws.
6. Purchase A Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats are one of the most recent advances in thermostat technology. They are simple to program and operate from anywhere using your smartphone or tablet. Some versions can even learn your HVAC system maintenance habits and schedule, allowing them to make energy-saving adjustments without any programming.
It’s easy to use your system less when you can regulate your thermostat settings. And it will significantly decrease usage and help your system to last longer.
Hiring a professional HVAC installation & repair service in Toronto will help you to install a smart thermostat effortlessly.
7. Be Cautious
Don’t stop with the smart thermostat; you know, at the end of the day, it’s your responsibility to ensure proper HVAC system maintenance and save your bucks. Rest your system by using ceiling fans to keep cool during hot weather. Invest in reflecting sunglasses to keep the sun’s heat at bay.
Then, in the winter, open those shades to let the free heat in, and utilize sweaters, blankets, and space heaters to remain warm while lowering the thermostat. Being cautious about using the system efficiently will ensure the optimal condition of your system.
Follow these expert HVAC system maintenance tips to significantly extend the lifespan of an HVAC system.
When Should You Repair or Replace Your HVAC?
All homeowners eventually wonder if it is best to replace or repair their HVAC system. Check out the HVAC equipment life expectancy chart to make an informed decision. Also, there are a handful of things to remember, which may include:
Repair costs
Multiply the age of your unit by the yearly cost of system repairs. If it surpasses $5,000, it is probably time to think about replacing it. The usual HVAC system maintenance cost differs between $75 to $200 in Canada.
Your HVAC System’s Age
Systems over ten years old and requiring regular maintenance are inefficient and may pose a safety risk. You might ask how long do HVAC system last. The average HVAC lifespan might range from 10 to 20 years, depending on the system and how you maintain it.
Furnaces, for instance, can have an average life expectancy of 15 to 20 years, so it is good to keep the age of your system in mind. Newer HVAC models will give you the benefit of technology advancements and energy efficiency.
Plan Ahead
Once you’ve determined an estimated time frame for replacing your system, set aside a 12 to 18-month timeframe to complete the task. By saving money in the meanwhile, you should be able to avoid financing expenses and pay for your new system outright. You may also find the finest deals by waiting a long time before purchasing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper HVAC system maintenance is crucial for ensuring a cool and comfortable home environment. By following the expert tips in this comprehensive blog, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your HVAC system and avoid costly breakdowns.
Scheduling annual maintenance with a professional HVAC installation and repair service, regularly replacing air filters, selecting the appropriate fan setting, inspecting the condenser, upgrading insulation, investing in a smart thermostat, and being cautious about usage are all essential steps to proper HVAC system maintenance.
Additionally, referring to the HVAC equipment life expectancy chart and considering factors such as repair costs and the age of your system can help you to know how long do hvac systems last and make informed decisions on whether to repair or replace them.
So, don’t delay; start implementing these maintenance tips today and enjoy the benefits of a long-lasting, efficient HVAC system that keeps your home cool and comfortable for years to come.
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