Many of us have partaken in the timeless tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions to improve various aspects of our lives. Progress in all areas of life is fantastic! One area that is important to not overlook is the heart of your home—the HVAC system. As your local HVAC experts, Chillicothe Heating & Cooling is here and ready to guide you through eight resolutions that can significantly enhance your HVAC habits and improve your comfort, energy efficiency, and HVAC system’s overall performance throughout the year. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into these essential tips.
- Regularly Replace Air Filters: The air filters in your HVAC system are not just accessories; they are essential components that need to be changed out as recommended. The purpose of your HVAC air filters is to remove dirt, dust, and other particles from the air, ensuring optimal airflow and efficiency within your home. By replacing these filters every 1-2 months (per industry standards), you not only maintain peak HVAC performance but also enhance your home’s Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). It’s important to note that the frequency of replacement may vary depending on your lifestyle, the number of people in your home, and the number of pets in your home.
- Include Vents in Your Cleaning Routine: Vents are often overlooked in cleaning routines. However, these inconspicuous elements play a vital role in the efficiency of your HVAC system. So, making it a point to dust and clean your vents regularly can significantly improve air quality and overall system performance.
- Regularly Dust Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures: Ceiling fans and light fixtures are other components often overlooked when it comes to cleaning. However, neglecting these components can compromise the indoor air quality (IAQ), too. By simply adding this step to your cleaning routine, you can gradually improve your HVAC habits and ensure a healthier living environment.
- Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat: Elevate your HVAC maintenance with a smart thermostat! These innovative devices give you remote control over your home’s temperature, enable scheduling, and send notifications for repairs or upkeep. The result? Reduced energy waste and long-term savings. So, if you haven’t upgraded yet, feel free to reach out to us for more information. A smart thermostat is a smart way to kick the New Year off strong! We’re here to help!
- Inspect Attic Insulation: The insulation in your attic is crucial for maintaining a consistent temperature in your home. If certain rooms always feel too hot or too cold, or if your HVAC system seems to be constantly running, it could be due to insufficient attic insulation. If you suspect this is the case with your home, it’s important to check the insulation depth (if you can do so safely). Did you know that industry standards recommend a minimum of ten inches of insulation in your attic? If your insulation falls short of this, it may be worth considering an upgrade this year to enhance energy efficiency and reduce the workload on your HVAC system.
- Schedule a Professional Duct Cleaning: The ductwork in your home plays a vital role in distributing air throughout the house. Over time, dust, hair, fur, and debris can accumulate, impacting both the efficiency of your HVAC system and the indoor air quality (IAQ). While not something that needs to be done frequently, it’s important to have your ductwork professionally cleaned every three to five years to maintain optimal performance and high air quality.
- Regularly Clean Your Condenser: Regularly inspecting and clearing the area around your outdoor condenser is crucial to maintain its optimal efficiency. This simple habit can prevent malfunctions, breakdowns, and damage to the unit. Even during the winter months when the unit is not in use, it’s advisable to perform occasional checks to ensure nothing has fallen onto or near the condenser.
- Schedule Seasonal Maintenance Checks: Do not underestimate the importance of annual maintenance checks. Although they may seem unnecessary when everything appears to be running smoothly, these checkups play a crucial role in preventing long-term damage. Preventative maintenance is the purpose! Additionally, staying up-to-date with your seasonal maintenance will preserve your manufacturer’s warranty and keep it valid.
In conclusion, incorporating these HVAC resolutions into your New Year’s goals is a commitment to maintaining a well-functioning system, saving costs, and ensuring year-round home comfort. Remember, proactive maintenance is key to prolonging the lifespan of your HVAC system and safeguarding against unexpected issues.
For all your HVAC needs throughout the year, count on Chillicothe Heating & Cooling. Call us at (740) 281-2186, or click here to schedule an appointment now!