What Are Some Ways To Extend The Life Of An HVAC System?

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What Are Some Ways To Extend The Life Of An HVAC System?

Merts Heating & Air Conditioning gets it. Doing an HVAC system replacement is a scary thing and it’s not cheap. The only answer is to extend the life of your current system. Here are some ways to help make that happen.

Schedule two tune ups per year

Modern heating and cooling systems are extraordinarily reliable IF they receive regularly scheduled HVAC maintenance by a trained technician. Your air conditioner and furnace should each be inspected, cleaned, and tuned up every year. The best way is to schedule your air conditioner service in the spring and your furnace tune-up in late summer or early fall.

Regular filter changes

A Merts technician will always check your filters during the annual tune-ups, but most of the responsibility for this job really falls on Illinois and Northwest Indiana homeowners. Depending on filter type and how dirty the environment is, the filter should be changed every 30 to 90 days. When the filter is dirty your HVAC system has to work harder and shortens the lifespan.

Set the fan to “auto”

Most HVAC systems have two fan settings, “auto” and “on”. In the auto position the fan only runs during heating or cooling cycles. In the on position the fan runs all the time. There may be a few isolated instances where using the on position has some benefits, but it comes at the expense of increased wear and tear on the fan motor. 

Keep an eye on your condenser

Your air conditioner or heat pump has an outside condenser/compressor. It’s built to stand up to the elements, but it can be damaged during storms. It’s a good idea to examine it closely once or twice a month. While you’re at it clear away any vegetation or lawn debris to give your condenser room to breathe.

Upgrade your insulation

The math is simple: The less your HVAC system runs, the longer it will last. While HVAC maintenance is critical, it’s not the only factor. You also need to make sure your Illinois or Northwest Indiana home has adequate insulation. The best way to handle this is with a professional energy audit to locate trouble spots.

Install a smart thermostat

Used correctly, smart thermostats make it easy to use your HVAC systems less. Adjusting the temperature while you’re at work or sleeping will make the equipment last longer.

The time will come for a replacement

Even with HVAC maintenance, no HVAC system will last forever. If you are concerned that time has arrived, call Merts Heating & Air Conditioning now for a system evaluation. If it’s time for a replacement, our team will work with you to find the best option for you and your budget. As always more great information is available through our social media accounts. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.