Most manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend that you replace your air filters every 90 days. Depending on your location, you could need to do it more often. A few examples would be dry, dusty climates if you have a pet or the age of your current system. With so many types of filters (washable, varying size and thickness, etc), and so many factors that go into a proper replacement schedule, it’s always best to contact an experienced technician. When it doubts, if it looks dirty, replace it!
Your HVAC system should be checked at least once a year by a professional. Each system should have maintenance to make sure that everything is working properly. However, if you live in a climate in which you use one system more than the other, that system should have maintenance every six months.
Five common advantages of a smart thermostat include: Minimizing energy costs, tracking your energy usage right from your phone, controlling your thermostat from anywhere, and no more hassle of scheduling HVAC usage as most have motion detection, and they’re super easy to install. Installing a smart thermostat is a great addition to your home, and it’s convenient!
The easiest ways to improve your indoor air quality on your own are to change your AC filter about every 90 days (sooner if you have respiratory issues), see if you can spot-check your air ducts, use cooking vents, regularly clean your rugs and carpets (shampoo or vacuuming), buy a humidifier, or even buy (real) indoor plants!
Air conditioners typically last 15 to 20 years. If your AC system has reached this age, it may be time for a replacement before it breaks down completely. If your AC system needs repairs consistently with very short windows of time in between, this could be a sign your air conditioner is about to crash completely. Additionally, if you notice your AC system is hiking up your energy bills far more than usual, it could be overworking itself and nearing its expiration date. If you’re experiencing all of the above at the same time, then it’s worth calling a professional about a replacement.
Some ways to lower your electric bill include checking the seals on your windows, doors, and appliances, compromising on your thermostat settings in the hotter and colder months, adjusting the temperature of your freezer and refrigerator, shortening shower time, replacing your showerhead, washing your clothes in colder water, buying more energy-efficient appliances or smart lightbulbs, or using a smart power strip instead of the sockets that come with your home. With some professional assistance, you can also have your ductwork fixed, fix faucet leaks, have the temperature on your water heater adjusted, have dimmer switches installed, or have an energy audit performed.
R-22 is an air-conditioning refrigerant that was used in most systems. It was discovered that R-22 is bad for the planet’s ozone layer. Since 2010, R-22 has been slowly phasing out AC systems. Post 2020, R-22 will no longer be used in AC systems, nor will it be produced.
A central forced-air furnace creates and spreads warmth throughout your home, but a heat pump takes the outside air and repurposes it into warm air (regardless of the temperature outside) and transfers it inside. On the other hand, you can use a heat pump to cool your home as well. The process is the same, just substituting warm air for cool.
The kind of noises you might hear from your HVAC system if there’s a problem is: clanking, banging, and rattling sounds. This might mean that something is loose inside your unit. If you notice these abnormal noises, something may have come detached or broken. You should call a professional at the first sign of trouble.
If your AC system is freezing up, it’s probably because of a dirty air filter. The air filter keeps the air that circulates your home clean and breathable. Over time though, the filter will become clogged with allergens, dust, and other debris. This blockage reduces airflow and makes your HVAC coils freeze up.
