As a homeowner, one of the biggest expenses you’ll have with your home is your HVAC system. In fact, most homeowners have to finance the purchase of their new system because of its high upfront cost. Here, we’ll discuss some of the best things you can do to help extend the longevity of your system and get more bang for your buck.
Annual Maintenance Service
One of the absolute best things you can do to extend the longevity of both your heating and cooling system is to get annual maintenance service. This service will address all the internal components of your system to ensure they get the care they need to stay in good working condition.
We recommend servicing your air conditioner in the early spring and your heater in the early fall. It’s been proven time and time again that HVAC systems that receive annual maintenance last on average three to five years longer than those that don’t.
Routine Filter Changes
The air filter inside your HVAC system is perfect for catching unwanted contaminants before they reach the internal components of your system. However, as the air filter fills up with debris, it will restrict airflow throughout your ducting. This can leave your HVAC system working overtime trying to force air through the filter.
This will cause premature deterioration of its internal components and a shortened lifespan. To avoid this problem, you should check the air filter at least once a month. You can do this by holding it up to a light and looking through the filter. If you can see through the filter, it still has some usable lifespan left. If you can’t, it’s time for a replacement.
Air Filter Rating
All HVAC filters have a rating on the MERV scale that runs anywhere from a low of 1 all the way up to 20. It’s important to choose the perfect balance to protect your system while preventing excessive wear and tear on your unit’s internal components. In general, most homeowners should choose a filter with a MERV rating between 10 and 13.
This provides a good balance of being able to effectively remove a lot of airborne contaminants to prevent them from going into your unit while not reducing airflow. If you choose a filter that is higher, it will strain the components of your unit. Typically, HVAC filters with a rating of 13 or higher are exclusively designed for industrial HVAC systems that are much more powerful than residential ones.
Proper Installation
Probably one of the most significant factors that will affect the longevity of your heating or cooling system is whether or not you have it professionally installed. Proper installation ensures your system is appropriately sized for your household. If your system is installed poorly, it can lead to a variety of different problems like duct leaks, airflow restrictions, and even sizing errors. It’s always best to leave HVAC installation up to the professionals who are highly trained to do the job.
Usage Patterns
Another big factor that will impact HVAC longevity is your system usage patterns. If you’re constantly turning your unit on and off or it’s short cycling on its own due to improper sizing, the system will have a shorter overall lifespan. It’s best for your HVAC system to be set at a constant temperature so it can run as necessary to maintain that temperature without having to overwork consistently.
Additionally, it’s best to avoid setting the temperature on your thermostat extremely low or extremely high. These different set points can increase the runtime of your system and put more strain on its internal components. It can be highly advantageous to set your air conditioner at around 78 degrees Fahrenheit and your heater at around 68 degrees.
Climate
Certain climates throughout the country are harsher than others and can take a toll on your HVAC system. Climates that experience extreme heat or cold and those that have high humidity will force your HVAC system to work much harder to maintain an adequate temperature. Additionally, if there is a lot of dust, pollen, or salt in the air, the coils inside of your unit can corrode prematurely and lead to a shortened life expectancy.
Ductwork Condition
If you have a ducted HVAC system, it’s important to realize that the condition of your ducting will impact the overall longevity of your system. If your ductwork is aged with numerous leaks, it can put a strain on your HVAC system. This is because your system will have to run longer to try to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Investing in routinely sealing and replacing aging ductwork is a great way to avoid this problem.
System Quality
One obvious factor that will affect the overall lifespan of your heating or cooling unit is the quality of the product you purchase. Builder-grade models can be more affordable for homeowners but do come with a much shorter lifespan. Units from top-quality brands like Trane and Mitsubishi have specially designed compressors, coils, motors, and other internal components that are tested to last. They do come at a higher upfront cost but will give you a much longer lifespan.
Electrical Problems
If you live in an area where you’re experiencing frequent voltage drops and power surges, it’s vital to realize how these scenarios can impact your appliances. Routine electrical issues can lead to a shortened lifespan for the electronic components of your HVAC unit. One of the best ways to prevent damage from electrical issues like power surges is to invest in a whole-home surge protection device.
Condenser Airflow
The outdoor condenser unit for your HVAC system needs at least three feet of open space the whole way around it for optimal airflow. Over time, debris like leaves and twigs can blow up against your unit, and shrubbery or trees can grow near it. Anything within this three-foot radius can restrict the flow of air for your system and reduce its overall performance.
This will cause your HVAC unit to run overtime to compensate for its inefficiency. The best way to prevent this problem is to routinely check your outdoor condenser unit and remove any debris near it. In addition, trim back any shrubbery or low-hanging branches that could be restricting its airflow.
Prompt Repairs
It’s completely natural for your HVAC system to experience malfunctions from time to time. When something is out of the norm, it’s absolutely crucial to get prompt repair service. Be mindful to shut your unit off until you can get professional assistance. Continuing to run your system when you know there is a problem will likely lead to more internal damage. The more damage your system incurs, the shorter its lifespan will be.
Reliable HVAC Maintenance Service & More
Mackey Services offers reliable heating and cooling services for the Dickinson, TX area. In addition to tune-ups, we can help with all your HVAC replacement, new installation, and repair needs. Simply call our office today to schedule your next service consultation.
