3 New Year's Resolutions for HVAC Systems

3 Ways for Homeowners to Improve Their Home's Heating and Cooling Systems

The new year is not only a time for looking back on the previous year. It's also a time to look forward, using the information gathered in the past to make a better plan for the future. Many people do this in terms of their health and fitness. But it's also important to put a plan together to keep the home's system functioning properly for years to come. Like so many other things in life, owning a home is all about the long-term outlook. Luckily, taking care of the home's heating and cooling system has never been easier — here's how. 

Resolve to Set the Right Temperature

Many people think of the HVAC system in their home as they think of a fan. The fan has different settings, and pressing a button will make the blades spin faster or slower. Changing the speed whenever necessary isn't such a big deal on a fan. But it is on an HVAC system. Constant temperature changes on the thermostat can stress the system and kill efficiency. This is why it's important to set the right temperature. 

But what is the right temperature? It depends on the time of year. The most efficient temperature for most homes is around 68 degrees in the winter months. In the summer, the optimal temperature is around 78 degrees. These temperatures allow the home to remain comfortable while still keeping the system functioning in its optimal range, which can save homeowners money and help them prolong the life of their HVAC system. 

Pen Maintenance Into the Calendar

Since comfort is a relative term, the tip above may not be ideal for some people. A few degrees up or down may be necessary. But unlike the tip above, this tip doesn't come with wiggle room. Maintenance is one of the most important things homeowners can do for their HVAC system. And not just occasional maintenance, but regular maintenance. Those who don't pen maintenance into the calendar can expect their system to wear down faster than those who do. This will cost homeowners money both in terms of repairs and of poor efficiency. 

One should do maintenance twice a year; heater maintenance in the fall and AC maintenance in the spring. However, if spring goes by without maintenance, it's still important to get it done. The old saying "Better late than never" is true here. And the maintenance should be done by a professional HVAC company. One that offers a maintenance membership is best, as homeowners don't have to worry about it once they sign up. 

Set Reminders for Filter Changes

While maintenance is the most important thing for a well-functioning HVAC system, filter replacements are a close second. When the filter isn't replaced often enough, the system struggles to move air through the home. This is because the filter becomes clogged and thickens, making it harder for air to pass through. Many homeowners opt for a filter replacement service so they don't have to think about this, either. Others set reminders for every two or three months so they can remember to replace the air filter. Either way, it needs to get done consistently!

About Sunset Heating & Cooling

Sunset Heating & Cooling has been serving Portland, OR, for 100 years! Since 1922, they've been providing excellent workmanship and stellar customer service. They've been A+ rated and always offer honest, up-front pricing. Contact them today for thermostat services, heating maintenance, and AC maintenance.

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