Have you recently purchased a new home? Whether it's your first time buying a house or your 10th time, it doesn't really matter since each home is unique and your HVAC system can be completely different from what you're used to! What matters most is that you understand the components that control your home's temperature. This is because the units will need to be maintained now, and will need to be repaired at some point.
The HVAC system is one of the many things that drew you to your new San Diego home, so you'll want to extend its life as much as possible. Here are some pointers to guarantee that your HVAC system is performing at optimal levels year-round.
Understand Your HVAC System
Do you have a heat pump, a mini-split system, a boiler, or central air conditioning? You'll need to learn how to heat and cool your home, since San Diego temperatures can be extreme.
The following are some of the things you should be aware of regarding your HVAC system:
The age of the unit: If your house is more than 10-15 years old, your HVAC system is probably old as well. You should check the age of your HVAC system because aged HVAC equipment can cause a lot of difficulties.
Energy efficiency ratings for cooling and heating systems: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) or Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) (Energy Efficiency Ratio) have to do with how much energy your unit(s) will save. A higher ranking will be given to a system that is more efficient.
Inspection Reports: Request inspection results for the HVAC system from the previous homeowner. The reports will let you know whether the system has ever had any issues. You'll also have a better idea of what to expect from the unit.
Understand the terms and conditions of the warranty if the HVAC system is still under warranty.
Changing Your Filters BEFORE It's Necessary
The filters should be changed as prescribed by the manufacturer to keep the HVAC unit in good working order. Some systems will notify you when your filters need to be replaced.
Is there a storage unit in your attic? The filter on that unit should also be replaced. Your heating and cooling system will be hampered by a filthy filter.
A clogged filter will diminish the effectiveness of your machine and shorten its lifespan. Even in the heat, you should change your filters!
Take Good Care of Your Property
Keeping your landscaping in good shape will help the system run smoothly. You should keep shrubs, plants, and other foliage at least two feet away from your outside system. Toys and garden tools should also be kept away from the unit. Make sure you remove anything that falls near or on the HVAC system.
Close Your HVAC Vents As Little As Possible
Some homeowners in their homes shut the vents in rooms they don't use, thinking it will save money on energy. This, on the other hand, does not save money. This is because the system has to work harder to maintain the same temperature levels in the house when the vents are closed. As a result, it's advisable to keep the vents open and clear out anything that's blocking them.
Keep An Eye on the Ductwork in Your Home
If your home smells musty, has inconsistent temperatures, feels unduly humid, appears dusty all of the time, or has unusually high utility bills, it's time to contact a professional to evaluate and clean the ducting. The performance of the HVAC unit is harmed when there are leaks in the ductwork.
Look for Freezing or Ice on Your HVAC Unit
If you observe a small amount of ice accumulating on your HVAC system during the winter, don't panic. If there are ice formations, blocks, or enormous sheets of ice, a specialist should be called in to analyze the situation.
Taking Care of Your HVAC System
Your HVAC system should be serviced once a year. Every year, both the air conditioner and the furnace should be carefully inspected and cleaned. The optimal time to service your system is in the fall or spring. This will improve the efficiency and longevity of your system.
Employ the Services of a Licensed Heating & Cooling Company
Hire a reputable company for all of your HVAC needs. Don't put off looking for a reputable service provider until your system is in need of repair. Do some preliminary research and find a reputable contractor. A good HVAC contractor should solely work on HVAC systems. The contractor should also have a long track record in the industry and be able to give emergency services. For a list of all of Blue Diamond's HVAC services, click here.
Blue Diamond Heating and Air is a dependable and reputable San Diego HVAC company. Please call us today if you have any questions or concerns about your cooling and heating systems. We are excited to become your go-to HVAC company.
