One of the best ways to save money on an HVAC system is to make sure it last to its full life expectancy. An HVAC system, like all machines, will break down if you don’t take care of it. Therefore, B&L Ott has compiled this list of tips to help you maintain your system. By completing these tasks, you can both improve your system’s efficiency and save money on your electric bill. If you need any help along the way, B&L Ott in Reading, Pennsylvania can help.
Inspection and Regular Maintenance
The best way to protect your HVAC system is to inspect it regularly. Look for cracks, leaks, and damaged parts. Regular maintenance also ensures that small issues, don’t turn into big problems. B&L Ott recommends that you have your HVAC system serviced 1-2 times per year. Doing so will help ensure that you have heating and cooling when you need it.
Pre-season Maintenance
When you live in Berks County, summers are hot and winters are frigid. During the summer you turn off the heat and during the winter you turn off the air conditioning. When your air conditioning is turned off for long periods of time, it can grow mold or begin to deteriorate. Having your system inspected by a B&L Ott technician before each new season can help you avoid breakdowns when you need your system most.
Clean Vents
If you have a forced-air system, you have air vents running throughout your walls to transport air from one room to another. Over time, all sorts of debris begin to collect in these air vents. When the piles get too large, they block the air flow. This causes your system to work harder to reach your desired temperature. The life expectancy also decreases. B&L Ott offers a duct cleaning service that you should use every 5-7 years.
Clean Air Filters Regularly
Clean the Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor unit is the most likely to get dirty. When the wind blows, dirt, debris, and grass clippings may get into your system and cause issues. It also needs a clean coil to work properly. If your unit is in direct sunlight, it may also have to work harder. It is a good idea to put your outdoor unit in a shaded and away from the foliage.
Make Sure It Is the Proper Size
It is important to make sure that your unit is the right size. If it is too small, it will need to work overtime to keep your family cool. This will cause it to wear down and not last as long. When you buy a new system, you should discuss options with a B&L Ott technician. This will help you make the right model and size choice. If you think your current system is too small and you don’t want to buy a new system, consider a mini-split system. B&L Ott can install a small separate system to keep any small area cool without the need for vents.
Give It a Rest
Like you and any other machine, you can’t work 24/7. You need a break to relax and cool down and so does your HVAC system. Be sure to turn off your system every once in a while. This will give you a chance to inspect the parts for wear and tear as well as prolong the life of your system. A quality system should last between 15-20 years if it is maintained well.
