HVAC Tips to Avoid Heater Repairs

Avoid Heater Repairs With These Expert HVAC Tips

A new heat pump or furnace can cost upwards of $7,000, not including installation.

As a homeowner, it is important to do everything you can to maintain your heating system and extend its life as long as you can.

Keep reading to learn more about how to avoid costly heater repairs and keep your heat pump or furnace in great condition.

Get Rid of Drafts

A faulty door or window is more than just a nuisance.

It can also impact how well your HVAC system heats and cools your home.

If your doors and windows are left open or aren’t sealed properly, then your HVAC system will have to work much harder to regulate the temperature in your home.

Make sure you shut your doors and windows completely, and take care of any problems that may be preventing you from doing so.

You may also want to consider installing energy-efficient windows that will help keep the heat and air conditioning inside.

Change Your Filters

Changing your filters is one of the most important steps of HVAC maintenance.

Over time, your air filters will fill up with dust, dirt, and other debris.

Breathing this in can be harmful to your health, and it can also make it harder for your HVAC system to run properly.

You should change your air filter in the Arizona climate every 4 – 6 weeks or so.

Adjust Your Thermostat

Many HVAC repairs start with the thermostat.

The thermostat detects the temperature in your home and tells your HVAC system when to stop and start.

If it can’t read the temperature correctly, then your system will work either too hard or not hard enough.

Even if your thermostat is working properly, you can still use it to your advantage.

Play around with the temperature and find the lowest temperature in the winter and the highest in the summer that you feel comfortable with.

This can save you money on energy and allows your system not to work too hard.

Open Your Air Vents

Many people close their air vents in an attempt to save money on energy use.

While this sounds good in theory, it is actually not a good idea.

Closing your vents will cause pressure to build up in your ducts and hurt your unit’s performance.

This will not save you money in the end as keeping your vents closed can cause leaks or damage to your ductwork.

Make sure to keep your vents open and let the air flow freely in your home.

Check Your Ductwork

If left unchecked, your ducts can begin to leak or break down.

Dust and debris can also collect in your ducts and make your HVAC system have to work extra hard to heat and cool your home.

Routine ductwork checks and cleaning is important to the overall health of your system.

You can check the ducts yourself, but an HVAC professional can also take a look during their routine check.

Check for Any Issues Yourself

Before calling a specialist, you can check your home HVAC system on your own time for any signs of a problem.

Here are a few things to look out for.

  • Strange noises
  • Odd smells
  • A thermostat that won’t turn on
  • No air coming from the vent
  • Warm air when your system is set to cool
  • Cool air when your system is set to warm
  • Water leaks around your unit
  • Unit not turning on
  • High electric bill

These are just a few signs that your HVAC system may need maintenance.

Make sure to call a professional if you notice any of these issues.

Dust Your Unit

One easy maintenance tip is to make sure to keep the unit free of dust and debris.

Make sure to regularly dust off your indoor units.

If you have a heat pump system outside, it is important to keep it free of debris.

It is common for branches, leaves, and dirt to become stuck inside of the unit near the fan.

Check your outdoor unit once a month, or more if you are experiencing severe weather.

Know When to Replace

Unfortunately, HVAC systems do not last forever.

So if your system has been causing you multiple problems lately, then it may be time to replace it.

HVAC systems typically last anywhere from 10 to 20 years.

This number can be shorter or longer based on how well you take care of your system.

This is why keeping your unit in good shape is essential.

Keep Up With Routine Maintenance

The most important part of preventing costly repairs is to keep up with your routine maintenance.

Even if nothing is visibly wrong, hiring an HVAC professional to take a look can prevent problems before they happen.

You should call an Arizona HVAC professional two times per year to make sure your system is working properly prior to the weather shifting each season.

They can also complete small tasks such as cleaning your ducts and making sure your electrical wires are strong and secure.

Avoid Costly Heater Repairs With These Tips

With all of these helpful tips and tricks, you are more likely to avoid expensive heater repairs.

If you notice any issues with your HVAC system, then call a professional for a second opinion.

The experts at Mark Daniels Air Conditioning and Heating are always here to answer any of your heating and cooling questions or concerns.

Feel free to contact us at any time or check out our blog for more HVAC information.


Are you concerned about the condition or performance of your heating system? We can help keep your HVAC running at its peak year round! Our experienced HVAC experts in Mesa have been providing property owners with AC and heater repairs, maintenance, and replacements since 1996. Call  (480) 571-7219 or request service online today!

 

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