Things really are heating up! The residential sector accounts for more than one-fifth of total energy consumption in the United States. Most of this energy is consumed during the winter.
Yet many Americans don’t feel warm air because their systems break down in the winter. Before it starts to get cold and before your system breaks, you should familiarize yourself with a few essential heating system maintenance tips.
What parts of your system should you inspect, and when should you inspect them? Can you clean your HVAC system by yourself? When should you get help for HVAC repairs?
Answer these questions and you can have warm and comfortable air throughout this winter. Here are five essential tips for heating repairs.
1. Change Your Air Filters
Air filters remove particulates like dust and allergens that can cause respiratory problems and odors. If your filters become clogged, air may not pass through your heating system, damaging it over time.
You should replace your filters every season. If you have pets or a lot of dust in your house, you may need to replace them every month.
2. Scrub Your Ducts
Your ducts can get as clogged as your filters. You should inspect your ducts every month for signs of debris and mold.
Cleaning your ducts can be difficult, though you can try using a long vacuum and a brush. You can call a heating maintenance company and ask an employee to clean your ducts for you.
3. Look at Your Thermostat
Your thermostat controls when your HVAC system activates. It can also help you set the conditions for the air inside your house, letting you control the internal temperature and humidity.
If your HVAC system is broken, you should look at your thermostat. It may be set at the wrong temperature, or the wiring may be loose.
You should also set the thermostat to a moderate temperature and humidity so your system is not working too hard. 68 degrees is ideal for winter, as it is comfortable to live in without damaging your heating system.
4. Don’t Always Turn On Your Heating System
If you need to warm yourself by a few degrees, you should not turn on your heating system. This will keep your heating bills down and avoid strain on your system.
You should put on a fleece, wrap yourself in a blanket, and drink a warm beverage. If you have ceiling fans, you can switch their direction and use them to circulate warm air.
5. Schedule Check-Ups
Even if you are following maintenance tips, you should ask an HVAC technician to inspect your system for problems. Small issues like a loose vent can become a major problem if you don’t notice it.
Make a schedule for HVAC maintenance instead of ordering repairs when your system breaks. Before the winter starts, you should schedule a check-up. Schedule another one in the spring so your cooling components can be examined.
Be in Charge of Your Heating System
Winter will wage a war on your heating system. You need to keep the system safe by inspecting the air filters and replacing them when they get clogged. You should also clean your ducts and vents, but call someone if you’re having trouble with them.
Put less strain on your system by inspecting your thermostat and setting it to a moderate temperature. Warm yourself through other means when you are feeling a little cold.
Before the winter or summer, you should schedule a check-up. MetFab Heating and Cooling serves Clark County residents. Contact us today.