For some property owners, it may seem like your HVAC system has become something of a money pit as the cost of operating, maintaining, and repairing it are more than you are comfortable with. Being able to maintain a comfortable indoor environment is necessary, especially when living in climates with extreme temperatures. Here is some guidance on what you can do to keep your HVAC system running efficiently and when you should consider investing in a replacement.
How to keep your AC running smoothly
Change air filters: Regularly changing or cleaning air filters can help to improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. Dirt will accumulate with time, so try to do this every 1-3 months to enable your system to distribute air more freely and keep your energy costs down.
Give your compressor room: Try to keep the area around your outdoor compressor clear of obstruction and debris. Avoid trying to screen or cover it as this will interfere with air circulation and its ability to operate efficiently.
Keep vents open and unobstructed: Closing or blocking vents can put pressure on ductwork, affecting your HVAC system’s ability to properly circulate heated or cooled air around the home. It could even cause ductwork to become damaged, necessitating expensive repairs. If you want to control how treated air is distributed around the home, invest in a zoning system.
HVAC maintenance: With time, parts of your HVAC system will get dirty and parts become worn. Regular maintenance can help address problems before they escalate and require more expensive repairs, reducing the frequency of breakdowns. Maintenance can also help prolong the life of your equipment.
“One of the most expensive components to your house the HVAC system. It is critical to keep it well maintained and to have regular maintenance service performed,” explains Junior Petersen owner 32 Degrees Heating & Air Conditioning in Las Vegas.
When to replace your AC
- Frequent breakdowns
With more recurrent repairs being needed, you may find yourself paying as much for repairs as it would cost to purchase a new AC in a relatively short amount of time. Keep track of how often you have had to call in an HVAC specialist and once you realize it is no longer economical, look into making a replacement.
- Uneven cooling or heating
If you have been struggling to regulate the temperature of your home, it may indicate a problem with your HVAC system that is best resolved by investing in a newer model. Uneven cooling can sometimes be fixed by upgrading your thermostat, clearing clogged filters, and repairing ducts or other hardware. However, in some cases, it could be an issue of having an AC that is not the correct size, hence the need for a better replacement.
- Obsolete model
If your HVAC system is more than 10-15 years old, then it may be time for an upgrade. By this time many of the major components will have seriously deteriorated and the unit may even be running on outdated refrigerants that are no longer considered safe for the environment. Older HVAC systems will also have problems like unusual smells and sounds. Investing in a suitable newer model will allow you to enjoy greater safety and lower energy bills as they are more energy-efficient than older models.
