Effective Tips On Avoiding Frequent Heating And AC Repairs In Your Residence | San Antonio, TX
HVAC systems are typically designed to last for a good number of years. A well-maintained unit can remain operationally efficient for between 15 and 25 years. Even without proper care, HVAC systems can stay functional for up to 10 years.
However, a failing system can take a toll on your household’s comfort and personal finances. You’ll have to constantly deal with frequent equipment breakdowns and expensive heating and AC repairs. Poorly maintained HVAC systems can cause excessive energy wastage, increasing your monthly utility bills significantly.
To avoid any issues with your residential heating and cooling system, below are some preventative strategies you can implement with the assistance of a heating and AC repair professional near San Antonio, TX.
Schedule an HVAC Tune-up Service
As previously pointed out, HVAC systems aren’t built to last forever. However, you can increase the expectancy of your home’s unit by having it regularly maintained by a trained and certified HVAC service professional. It would be a great idea to schedule a tune-up a month before summer and winter when the HVAC system is in use around the clock.
This may help you avoid inconveniences and ensure your home’s furnace and air conditioner remain in good shape all year round. During maintenance service requests, your contractor can inspect each component inside the system and inform you if they detect issues requiring prompt solutions.
Beware of Signs of HVAC Issues
Before contacting your local heating and AC repair contractor, your residential HVAC unit may exhibit some warning signs. Some giveaway signs of HVAC trouble include unpleasant odors, weak airflow, frequent on and off cycles, and increasing energy bills.
Your heating and cooling system may also be failing if you notice hot and cold spots indoors or cold air blowing through the vents.
If you encounter any of these issues in your residence, contact your nearest HVAC service provider for assistance. They can evaluate the unit and address any problems detected to prevent costly repairs in the future.
Never Ignore Strange Noises
HVAC units are virtually noiseless, so you should never hesitate to request professional assistance if you hear strange noises from your home’s unit. The system may start producing strange noises due to wide-ranging problems.
For instance, clogged ductwork can trap air that becomes pressurized and eventually sent back into the system. If this goes on for long enough, the air returning to the unit can eventually cause it to break down completely.
Strange noises could also be the result of the filters wearing out or components inside the system loosening. Regardless of the cause of the sounds, you should request a heating and AC repair service to avoid more severe problems down the road.
Conduct Filter Checks and Ensure the Vents are Clean
Residential HVAC systems have filters that homeowners should clean monthly or at least two to three months. Even though air filter models can last up to six months, you’d be mistaken to stay a whole year without changing or cleaning the filters.
Filters are responsible for purifying the air reaching your indoors, and with time, dirt and debris may accumulate excessively, clogging them and impeding their efficiency. They also trap moisture particles, creating a mold hazard if they’re not cleaned regularly.
With that in mind, you should have your heating and AC repair contractor inspect, clean, or replace your system’s filters regularly to prevent potential health risks. When the filters are clean, your unit won’t have to strain to keep your indoors comfortable, reducing the overall rate of wear and tear.
If your home uses a ducted HVAC unit, you should have the vents vacuumed by an experienced HVAC service contractor to prevent dirt and debris from blocking airflow. You should also ensure that the vents aren’t obstructed by furniture or household appliances. The airflow should also be strong and consistent unless the unit has a problem.
Evaluate the Seals
Seals found throughout your home’s heating and cooling system help ensure that the cold air produced internally reaches the rooms of your residence. If there are leaks, your indoor comfort may be negatively impacted since most of the conditioned air will escape into the walls. Consequently, the system may begin straining to compensate for the lost air, which can increase its rate of wear and tear and the demand for heating and AC repair services.
If you sense a decline in operational efficiency, you should request an HVAC service expert to come and inspect the seals for leaks. They can run multiple tests to determine the quality of the seals, fixing or replacing sections with visible wear and tear to prevent leaks in the future.
Monitor the Refrigerant Levels
HVAC systems also have coolant fluid responsible for cooling air before reaching your home indoors. Fluctuations in refrigerant levels can determine the functional efficiency of the entire heating and cooling infrastructure.
If the coolant levels are too low, your system may not work to its maximum potential. On the other hand, leaks with potentially hazardous effects may occur if the unit has too much coolant fluid. Therefore, you should have a heating and AC repair expert check the coolant levels to avoid complications.
Check the Humidity Levels
Dry air can be a significant issue if your residential HVAC system isn’t working correctly. Low humidity levels can increase the chances of contracting cold and flu viruses, itchy skin, and nosebleeds. It may also cause static electric shock and damage your household furnishings and appliances.
Additionally, it may strain your HVAC system, affecting its ability to keep your home warm during the cold season. Luckily, your preferred heating and AC repair technician near San Antonio, TX, can provide long-term solutions. They may advise you to consider installing a smart thermostat or hygrometer to help monitor humidity levels and avoid humidity-related heating and cooling issues.
bluefrog Plumbing + Drain + HVAC of San Antonio Can Help with Your HVAC Repair Needs
The licensed and trained heating and AC repair professionals at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain + HVAC of San Antonio can help you avoid frequent HVAC issues in your residence. Also, we can provide prompt solutions for minor and emergency heating and cooling issues.
Contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain + HVAC of San Antonio today to learn more about our company and how we can help keep your San Antonio, TX, home cozy regardless of the season.
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