As January unfolds, unveiling a pristine canvas for the new year filled with boundless possibilities, it’s likely you’ve crafted resolutions to better various facets of your life—financial, academic, fitness, or personal goals. Tracing its roots back to the ancient Babylonians, this enduring tradition was conceived to pay homage to their king and herald a bountiful farming season.
But how does this age-old tradition connect with your HVAC system? The answer lies in the commitment of your dedicated local professionals at Monroe Heating & Air, reminding you to include your HVAC system in your New Year’s resolutions. As you endeavor to elevate your quality of life, why not aspire to refine your HVAC practices along the way? Follow these eight essential steps to discover how to optimize your HVAC habits and ensure a hassle-free year ahead.
- Maintenance Checks: Regular maintenance checks are crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Don’t be tempted to skip them, even when everything seems fine. These proactive checks help address minor issues before they become major problems. Skipping maintenance not only risks long-term damage but also voids your manufacturer’s warranty. So, make it a priority to stay ahead with seasonal checks. Schedule one for your AC in spring and another for your furnace before the fall season begins.
- Air Filters: Maintain an effective routine by regularly changing your air filters every 1-2 months. Dirty filters cause your system to work harder, resulting in increased energy consumption and higher costs. By adhering to industry standards, this simple HVAC resolution can help with the efficient operation of your HVAC unit throughout the year.
- HVAC Vents: Dusty vents can compromise air quality and hinder HVAC efficiency. So, it is important to incorporate regular cleaning of your HVAC vents into your cleaning routine. This small step contributes to a healthier living environment by improving overall air quality.
- Thermostat: Upgrade to a smart thermostat if you haven’t yet already! Take control of your home’s temperature remotely, save energy, and sync temperatures with your weekly schedule. Smart thermostats offer convenience and energy efficiency, making them a worthwhile investment. Feel free to reach out to us for more information!
- Insulation: Are you dealing with a continuously running HVAC system, or perhaps there are rooms in your house that are not very well-regulated? If so, your attic could have insufficient insulation. Industry standards recommend a minimum of ten inches of insulation. If your current insulation falls short of this, consider upgrading to enhance energy efficiency.
- Ceiling Fans: Just like HVAC vents, dusty ceiling fans (and light fixtures) can negatively affect the indoor air quality (IAQ) in your home. To prevent this, make sure to include them in your regular cleaning regimen. By cleaning these components regularly, you can maintain good indoor air quality and ultimately help reduce strain on your HVAC system.
- Condenser: It’s a good idea to regularly check and clear the area around your condenser, even during the winter months when the AC is inactive. You want to make sure no outdoor items, branches, sticks, etc., have fallen onto or around the unit. This simple practice ensures the longevity of your unit. A quick check can prevent unnecessary HVAC hassles and damage to the condenser.
- Ductwork Cleaning: Over the years, your ductwork will naturally collect dust, loose debris, and other small airborne particles. Of course, dirty or clogged ducts can also affect HVAC efficiency and indoor air quality (IAQ). As the component responsible for distributing air throughout your home, clean ducts are so important as they can promote a healthier living space. So, how often should you get your ducts cleaned? A good rule of thumb is every three to five years. If you don’t remember the last time yours was professionally cleaned, this is a good indicator that this year is the opportune time to have it done!
By incorporating these eight HVAC resolutions into your yearly plan, you set the stage for a healthier, more efficient HVAC system. Just remember that consistent good practices and positive HVAC habits will aid in keeping HVAC issues at bay, ensuring a smoother and hopefully trouble-free year for you and your family!
Call Monroe Heating & Air at any time all year long (513) 540-4890, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
