The heating and cooling system in our homes provide creature comforts that we have evolved to require. Especially in areas where the weather is extreme, your HVAC system is designed to keep you cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and handle the constant tax it is put under.
Those aforementioned creature comforts are more than mere ‘comfort’; we’ve grown to rely on them, in many cases for our health and safety. It isn’t cliche to say that if left neglected, undoubtedly your air conditioner will stop working during a heatwave or your heat will stop working during a deep freeze.
To avoid having to repair or replace your HVAC system frequently at any point during the year, simple at-home measures can be taken to ensure it works when you need it most. While servicing the Tampa Bay area since 1946, Air Rescue has collected maintenance simple tips for all homeowners to extend the life of their HVAC system.
Keep Your System Running
A simple start: change your filters! Many homeowners go years without cleaning or replacing their filter, assuming it doesn’t do much. Your system wears out quickly while trying to push air through a dirty filter or clogged ductwork.
Second, set the system fan to ‘auto’ rather than ‘on’. That might sound contradictory; however, what ‘on’ means is that the fan on your unit outside will run constantly whether your system is heating or cooling your home, much like your car idling in your driveway; wear and tear still occurs.
Finally, try not to use your system as much. Yes, it is there for you to use, but it occasionally needs a breather. By using ceiling fans to circulate air during summer and wearing long sleeves to stay warmer during winter instead of letting your system run constantly will help it last longer.
When Should You Replace It?
Despite these measures, even the most meticulously maintained HVAC system has a finite lifespan. There are a few signs that your HVAC system is beyond repair and possibly in need of a replacement, including bad smells, higher than usual energy bills, weird sounds, and moisture buildup.
Start by having your local HVAC professionals like Air Rescue perform yearly tune-ups. This gives you the chance to ask them for an evaluation of your system, in which they can give you an estimate as to if your system is reaching the end of its usable life.
Truly, the best time to replace your HVAC system is before it fails you. Every system comes with an ‘expiration date’ of sorts; when it should be replaced. Know this unofficial cut off date so you can plan a window of when to have it replaced.
Air Rescue For HVAC Systems
With both a residential and commercial customer base in Tampa Bay, Air Rescue installs and services air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems of varying sizes. In addition to this work, they offer free second opinions on system replacements!
Be sure to visit their website or call 813-358-3431 to schedule an appointment today!