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How To Prolong The Life Of Your HVAC System
Heating and cooling in the home and office are more efficient with HVAC units. Design and technology have turned HVACs into a must-have solution for regulating temperature and ventilation.
Landlords install HVACs in their rental properties as they are more reliable, safe, and energy efficient. Tenants will also pay more rent for homes with HVACs. However, like many systems in the house, the unit is expected to ‘just work’ and never need maintenance. But without reasonable care, they will eventually break down.
So what is an HVAC, and how should you look after it to prolong its life?
HVAC Explained
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It refers to the technology, systems, and equipment used to control indoor environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, air quality, and movement.
HVAC systems are used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to maintain comfortable and healthy living and working environments. The systems typically include heating equipment (such as furnaces, boilers, or heat pumps), air conditioning units, ventilation systems, and ductwork to distribute conditioned air throughout the building.
Properly designed and maintained HVAC systems are essential for energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and occupant comfort.
However, homeowners are worst at forgetting maintenance. Landlords using property managers can rely on them to ensure regular maintenance is carried out.
But there’s no one telling the owner-occupier to clean the filter and do the other tasks, so here are a few tips on how to prolong the life of the HVAC system in your home.
Prolong Your HVAC Life
Here are some tips to extend the life of your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system.
Air Filters
Change the air filters regularly. Clogged air filters make the HVAC system work harder, increasing wear and tear on the components. Replace the filters at least every three months or more frequently if you have pets or allergies.
Maintenance
Schedule regular maintenance. Annual maintenance by a licensed HVAC technician can catch minor issues before they become significant. This can also help improve the system’s efficiency, saving you money on energy bills.
Look After Outdoor Unit
Keep the outdoor unit clean. Clear away any debris, such as leaves or branches, that may have accumulated around the outdoor unit. This can help prevent damage to the HVAC and ensure proper airflow.
Use HVAC Properly
Avoid overworking the system. Don’t set the thermostat too high or too low, as this can cause the system to work harder than necessary. Try to keep the temperature within a reasonable range, and consider using a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature when you’re away from home automatically.
Ducts
Seal and insulate ducts. Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can cause the HVAC system to work harder to distribute air throughout your home. Have your ducts inspected and sealed by a professional to improve efficiency and extend the life of your system.
Upgrade Your HVAC
Consider upgrading to a more efficient system. If your HVAC system is old and inefficient, it may be worth investing in a newer, more efficient model. This can save you money on energy bills in the long run and may also come with a warranty or other benefits.