Since summer has edged into fall, it’s past time to start thinking about priming your HVAC system for the colder days ahead. Make your preparations stress-free by identifying and avoiding common HVAC mistakes, some of which residential heating services contractor Shackelford Heating & Cooling shares in this blog.
Not Changing the Air Filter
The air filter keeps indoor air clean by trapping dust and other particles. Ideally, it should be cleaned or replaced every three months, or monthly during seasons of heavy HVAC use. Air filters can become clogged to the point where the conditioned air is blocked, which increases the workload on the HVAC system and eventually leads to higher energy bills.
Fiddling with the Thermostat
You may have already heard from heating and air conditioning contractors like us that you should stick to a small range of thermostat settings instead of changing the temperature as needed. This is because constantly messing with your thermostat settings can put extra pressure on the HVAC system. If you find hot or cold spots in your home, you need to find the cause, which could be drafty windows or poor indoor air circulation.
Neglecting Scheduled Maintenance
A well-maintained HVAC system is less likely to fail on you when you need it most. HVAC systems are subject to wear and tear, and it’s only a matter of time before the evaporator coils will need to be cleaned or the hoses will need to be inspected for leaks. Finding and addressing such problems as early as possible keeps repair costs low, helps the HVAC system run at full efficiency and can aid in prolonging its life span. Most importantly, it ensures a comfortable home throughout the year.
Turning Off Heating When You Go Out
Turning off your heating system when you leave–whether for a few hours or the entire weekend–can put additional strain on your system which will end up increasing energy costs. Instead of doing this, try setting your thermostat several degrees lower. This will help keep indoor temperatures at a consistent level so it doesn’t take too long to bring the temperature back up when you return home. If you routinely leave your house, invest in a programmable thermostat or a smart home system, which can automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule.
Call Shackelford Heating for All Your Fall Heating Needs
Shackelford Heating & Cooling is your leading provider of every residential air conditioning service you’ll need this season. Give us a call at (608) 260-7118 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
