Tips to Help Avoid These 7 Fall HVAC Mistakes

As a homeowner, some of your biggest costs come with heating and cooling your home. With fall upon us, and cooler temperatures approaching, it’s a good idea to take a few minutes to make sure that your HVAC system and the other components that will impact your energy efficiency in your home all look good.

7-hvac-mistakes-to-avoid

Energy costs are variable, which means that there is something that you can do to keep them under control. Here are some tips to help you avoid mistakes with your HVAC.

1 – Forget to Change the Filter

Your air filter is responsible for removing particles and debris from the air as it flows through the house. Over time the filter will gather residue and begin to be less effective. You need to clean your filter on a regular basis for a few reasons.

One, it cleans the air, which is particularly change-filters_720important if you have pets shedding dander or if you or other family members have a respiratory disease.

Two, it helps the air (and the heat) circulate more efficiently. Make a point to change it when the season changes too.

2 – Not Changing the Thermostat

Many people simply leave their thermostat at the same setting year-round, leaving their HVAC system to do all the heavy work of regulating temperature, against the heat or cold outside.

This fall, adjust your thermostat downwards slightly so that your HVAC unit doesn’t have to work as hard.

3 – Not Checking the Vents

It’s more efficient if you can have air circulating in areas of the house that you need it most. Close some of the vents to push the hot air towards the rooms where you spend most of your time. Don’t close too many or your efforts will be counterproductive.

4 – Leaky Ducts

Your ducts are an important part of your comfort system that you need to deliver the hot air expressly. If there are leaks in or around the ducts, the air will leak out instead of reaching your rooms, making your HVAC system work twice as hard.

5 – Ignoring Warning Signs

If you think trouble is brewing with your system, don’t put it off. Get it checked out. If you see signs of rust, hear unusual noises coming from your uinvest-in-your-ventsnit or can’t get your home to heat properly, get it looked at today.

6 – Clutter Around the Condenser

Whatever you do, make sure that the area around the condenser is free from clutter and plants so that air can circulate freely. Condensers need room to breathe, just like the rest of us!

7 – Badly Placed Carpets and Furniture

Make sure that you don’t have carpets, furniture, toys or anything else covering vents . Having these items there will block the hot air from flowing through.

To make doubly sure that your HVAC system is in great condition this fall, don’t hesitate to call for a second opinion. Our trained staff at Cyprus Air Heating and Cooling in Alexandria, VA is happy to answer any of your questions at 703-765-9400.