What will 2019 bring you? Are you looking forward to a new year, are you thinking about opportunities around the corner, or perhaps a fresh start? If you’re a homeowner, you may be looking around your house with a critical eye, wondering what will need to be replaced this year. Will it be your heating and cooling system? The short answer to that question is this: if you’ve had your heating and cooling system for twelve to fifteen years, you may be ready for a new one. Do you want a longer answer? If you have kept up with the maintenance, and you have the system serviced by a reliable heating and air company, you may be able to extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling system. Here are some tips to help you do that.
- Change the filters regularly. This is a ridiculously easy chore, and yet essential to the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Air filters that are clogged with dust and dirt can’t circulate the air properly, so a dirty filter makes your whole system work harder. This can not only raise your energy bills but also shorten the lifespan of your system.
- Give your system a break. When you keep your heating and cooling system working constantly, you can cause it to wear out quickly. Use ceiling fans, turn off your system if you’re going to leave the house for any length of time, and keep your thermostat at a reasonable temperature. It’s also smart to have an inspection so that you can make sure your home is well sealed and insulated, and your system is running properly.
- Mind the outside components. The condenser unit in your backyard is an important part of your heating and cooling system, and if it gets clogged with leaves and other debris, its performance may suffer. It’s easy to clean your condenser using a brush or low-pressure hose. Your system also has a discharge pipe that leads outside and provides drainage. If this becomes damaged, it can be expensive to fix, so keep an eye on it and make sure it doesn’t get blocked, clogged, frozen or damaged in any other way.
- Keep your ducts clean. Just like the filters, the ducts in your home can suffer from a buildup of dirt, dust, and debris. You can do a minor duct cleanup by yourself, using your vacuum cleaner and a brush, but that sort of maintenance only goes so far. To get the entire air duct system clean, you’ll need to enlist the help of a professional.
- Have your system serviced regularly. Even if you’re vigilant about keeping up with your system, it’s important to have a professional come out regularly to inspect and help maintain it. It’s smart to schedule regular maintenance at the beginning of each season.
- Consider an upgrade. If it is time to replace your heating and cooling system, look for an energy efficient model that will reliably work for you for many years. Choose a professional installer who stands behind their work, and will continue to maintain your system once it’s installed.