Follow these steps to keep your system flowing
May 2023
by Patrick Smith, Contributing Writer
As the weather gets warmer, many of us start planning for a cool summer getaway. But, regardless of the temperature outside, the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system in your home rarely gets a break.
While every household is different, your HVAC system likely uses the most energy of any single appliance in your home. Just like regular oil changes keep your car running, these suggestions can keep your home comfortable year-round.
Change your air filter on a regular basis. It’s an easy way to ensure the air in your home is healthy and easy to breathe. Many air filters are made to last a month, but some are designed to work for three or six months. Make sure you install a properly sized air filter. The wrong filter can overwork the HVAC system and lessen its life expectancy.
Similar to your annual physical, it’s a good idea to schedule yearly preventative maintenance for your HVAC system. You’ll be glad you did each time the cool air starts blowing on a hot summer day.
Keep the space clean around your HVAC system, including any brush around the outside air intake or air conditioner unit, and the heating unit inside your home. This creates adequate airflow and helps prevent overheating.
Survey your home to seal any noticeable drafts and consider adding insulation. Another option is to add window treatments to create a better seal around windows or use blackout curtains to reduce long hours of sunlight.
If your thermostat is more than 10 years old, a programmable thermostat can help regulate temperatures. Plus, you can control most smart thermostats over Wi-Fi, even when you’re away.
Finally, it may seem counterintuitive but don’t close air vents in seldom occupied rooms. Think of an HVAC system similar to how your heart pumps blood throughout your body. If there’s a blockage or a closed air vent, the HVAC system has to work harder to stabilize temperatures. Keep the doors and vents open to maximize efficiency.
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To learn more about HVAC efficiency, visit ee.odec.com.
