Adopt Better Heating and Cooling Habits in the New Year

3 Good Habits Every Homeowner Should Adopt

Regardless of where someone lives, heating and cooling are essential parts of the modern home. Without them, the house wouldn’t be considered safe or comfortable. People can suffer health problems associated with too much heat or cold. Not only that, but heaters are more likely to break down in the winter because of how cold it can get outside. Therefore, homeowners should be aware of the three easiest and most effective ways to avoid HVAC issues. Read below to learn how to adopt better heating and cooling habits in the new year. 

Replace Air Filters

Remembering to replace or change the air filter is just as important as remembering to have maintenance done. The more people (and animals) living in the home, the more frequently the air filter needs to be replaced. Why? More people and animals mean more dirt, dust, and hair that comes into and circulates through the home’s HVAC system. 

Professionals recommend that homeowners replace air filters at least every three months, but this recommendation is for homes with a few people. That means many families should replace their air filters more often, like every other month, for better indoor air quality. 

Changing the air filter more frequently can lead to the following benefits: 

• Better indoor air quality
• Fewer illnesses
• Fewer allergy or respiratory problems
• Lower energy bills
• A longer-lasting system
• Fewer breakdowns

Air Vents are Important Too!

Most homeowners know to change their air filters regularly, but that’s where many of them stop. However, homeowners who do the due diligence to check and clean the air vents periodically can also help get the absolute most from their HVAC systems. Homeowners should ensure air vents are not closed or clogged with debris to allow air to flow freely.

Believe it or not, when the vents are closed or backed up with dust and debris, it causes a pressure imbalance in the system. Homeowners must try to avoid pressure imbalances as much as possible because they can be detrimental to the heating system. They can lead to back-ups in the system or even air being forced back into the system as the air gets pushed through other less clogged or open vents in the home. Pressure imbalances can also mess with the home’s temperature and how long the heater stays on during the day. 

AC Maintenance and Heating Maintenance: They’re Both Crucial 

Much like changing the air filter regularly, getting heating and air conditioning maintenance done routinely is also crucial. HVAC maintenance is essential for keeping a home or business comfortable and safe. Regularly scheduled maintenance helps improve indoor air quality, reduce energy costs, and extend the life of the system. Without proper HVAC maintenance, there could be serious consequences. 

Neglecting maintenance can cause an increase in energy bills due to inefficient operation, as well as decreased comfort in the home or business. Poor air quality can lead to respiratory issues for people and pets, and increased levels of dust buildup can cause asthma attacks and other health problems. Not having regular maintenance can also result in breakdowns more often, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with proper maintenance.

It is recommended that homeowners have maintenance done every fall and spring. The fall is when the heater maintenance gets done, while the spring is when the air conditioner maintenance gets done, so the systems are prepared for the seasons when they’ll get the most use. Abiding by this schedule ensures that the cooling system is ready for the warm summer ahead and the heater is prepared for the cool temperatures of winter. However, if the heater hasn’t had maintenance yet for this season, it’s never too late to protect it!

About Great Day Plumbing & Air 

Great Day Plumbing & Air provides tailored solutions for residents of Wilmington, NC, and the surrounding areas. They also offer same-day service and straightforward pricing. Call them for AC or heater maintenance in Wilmington, NC.

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