Simple Steps to Ensure HVAC Efficiency

There are a lot of small things you can do to keep your HVAC system efficient. When you take good care of your HVAC system and follow tips on efficiency, you should never have a month of expensive heating or cooling costs unless something in the unit breaks.

1. Change the Air Filter Every Month

Check the manufacturer’s guidelines on how often you need to change the air filter in your HVAC system. Never go more than that amount of time without changing the air filter. When it becomes too dirty, it decreases the HVAC system’s efficiency and increases the risk of breakdowns.

2. Schedule HVAC Maintenance Twice a Year

Both the heating and cooling sides of your HVAC system need maintenance yearly. Heating maintenance should come in the fall, while AC maintenance should be scheduled in Spring. Scheduling a tune-up before needing heating or cooling for the year guarantees equipment is in tip-top shape. An HVAC system is less likely to break down when it receives maintenance before switching to heating or cooling.

All Temp Co., Inc Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing, & Electrical is a reputable company in Harrisburg, NC, that can handle your annual heating and AC maintenance. We have NATE-certified technicians who take their jobs seriously and know how to tune any make or model.

3. Clear Off the Condenser Every Month

Pollen, leaves, tree branches, and other debris that fall onto your condenser reduce its airflow and efficiency. Wear gloves when you remove waste from the condenser. You can follow up with vacuuming the condenser using a soft brush attachment. Do not bend the fins as you clear off and clean the condenser.

4. Don’t Use the Dryer During the Hottest Part of the Day

Using the dryer blows heat into your house, so it’s best to plan on washing your clothes during cooler hours in the summer. The hottest part of the day is typically around 2 to 4 p.m.

5. Don’t Use the Oven During the Hottest Part of the Day

Like a dryer, the oven adds heat to your residence when you use it. An oven can increase the temperature by several degrees. Avoid using the oven during the hottest part of the day to make it easier on your home’s cooling system.

6. Use the Ceiling Fan in the Correct Direction

Ceiling fans improve the efficiency of heating and cooling your house because they circulate air and help to reduce humidity. However, the blades should turn in the correct direction to achieve the desired effect. In the summer, the blades turn counterclockwise on the highest setting. Ceiling fans circulate cool air down when they spin counterclockwise.

In the winter, the blades turn clockwise and keep the fan on the lowest setting. This will suck up cold air toward the ceiling and push the warm air down. To change the direction the fan spins, you may have to flip a switch on the fan’s motor housing. Some ceiling fans also come with a remote that can change the direction.

7. Clean the Condensate Drain Line During Summer

A blocked condensate drain line causes problems with the AC unit. You can flush a cup of bleach and a gallon of water down to clean it. Make sure to pour the bleach first, then the gallon of water to thoroughly wash away the bleach while also getting the drain line clean and clear of gunk.

8. Maintain 3 Feet of Clearance Around the Condenser

When trees, shrubs, and even overgrown grass are too close to the condenser, your HVAC system loses efficiency. You need to maintain at least three feet of clearance around the condenser. When it comes to above the condenser, nothing should be within five feet. Never set something on top of the condenser because this also restricts airflow and can cause overheating.

9. Use Blackout Curtains

Blackout curtains are the best type of curtains for an insulating effect. They help to block out cold winter air and hot summer air. Blackout curtains keep your HVAC system’s warm or cold air inside the room longer. Some people noticed their energy bills decrease by as much as 25% when they began using blackout curtains throughout their home.

All Temp Co., Inc Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing, & Electrical is a Carrier Factory-Authorized Dealer serving Harrisburg, NC, and the surrounding areas. We follow high standards to deliver quality work and excellent customer service. Our work is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Before hiring anyone, we put them through a thorough background check and a drug test. All Temp Co., Inc Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing, & Electrical is committed to providing safe, quality HVAC services.

Contact us today to schedule HVAC maintenance, repair, or installation if you live in one of our service areas. We look forward to the opportunity to tell you how we can serve your home comfort needs.

 

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