The holiday season is busy. There’s no time for an HVAC system breakdown. Here are a few ways you can avoid facing trouble with your home’s heating system this winter.
Schedule a Professional Inspection and Tune-Up
Scheduling this service in early winter, before the system is running at full capacity and your busy hosting holiday fun, is ideal for preventing unexpected failures. Having a professional HVAC technician perform a comprehensive check-up will help identify any potential problems before they turn into major issues. A tune-up typically includes:
- Cleaning the system: Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate in your HVAC unit, reducing efficiency. Cleaning components like the coils, filters, and blower can keep your system running smoothly.
- Checking the thermostat: A malfunctioning thermostat can cause your system to misread temperatures, resulting in improper heating or higher energy bills.
- Lubricating and inspecting parts: Regular lubrication prevents wear and tear on critical components like the blower motor and fan.
Change Your Air Filters Regularly
One of the simplest but most important tasks in maintaining your HVAC system is changing the air filter. Clogged filters restrict airflow, which can cause the system to overheat, work harder, and increase the risk of breakdowns. In the winter, when you’re using your heater regularly, check and replace the filter at least every 1-3 months (or more often if you have pets or allergies). A clean filter improves air quality, increases efficiency, and prolongs the life of your system.
Seal Drafts in Your Home
Your HVAC system works harder when heat escapes from your home, so it’s essential to keep the warm air inside. Inspect windows and doors for drafts and seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulking.
Keep Vents and Ducts Unobstructed
Make sure that furniture, rugs, and curtains aren’t blocking the vents and registers in your home. Blocked vents restrict airflow, causing your HVAC system to work harder and potentially overheat.
Test the Heating System Before It Gets Too Cold
Don’t wait for a cold front or your guests to arrive before testing your heating system. Turn on your thermostat and let the heat run for a short period (15–20 minutes) to ensure the system responds as it should. If you notice any strange noises, weak airflow, or uneven heating, it’s best to have a technician inspect the system to find the issue.
Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clean and Clear
If you have a heat pump or any HVAC system with an outdoor unit, make sure it’s free from debris like leaves, twigs, and snow. These can block airflow and reduce the efficiency of the unit.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Upgrading to a programmable or WIFI-enabled thermostat can help your HVAC work more efficiently and extend the lifespan of your system. A smart thermostat can:
- Automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, preventing the system from running unnecessarily when you’re away or asleep.
- Provide real-time alerts if there’s an issue with your HVAC system, allowing you to address problems before they escalate.
- Help optimize energy use, ensuring your system isn’t working overtime and keeping utility bills in check.
Trust the Experts at Neffsville Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Services
Even with the best maintenance, all HVAC systems eventually reach the end of their lifespan. On average, most HVAC units last about 10-15 years. If your system is older, requires frequent repairs, or isn’t keeping your home as comfortable as it used to, it might be time to invest in a replacement.
The experts with Neffsville Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Services have the experience to give you an accurate determination of your system with high-quality solutions for your South Central Pennsylvania home. Call us today for your HVAC needs.
