Simple Themes for Limiting Major HVAC Costs

Simple Themes for Limiting Major HVAC Costs

Like any other system that operates using mechanical parts, such as a vehicle or a toilet, HVAC systems and their components require maintenance to keep them from breaking down. Such upkeep serves two primary, and related, purposes: Keeping HVAC equipment working properly so occupants of a given structure are comfortable and healthy, and limiting potentially major repair and replacement costs for systems that are allowed to wear down too quickly.

At Airtime Heating & Cooling, we’re proud to offer a number of services to ensure your HVAC system is in great shape and not costing you money, from precision AC and furnace tune-ups to a wide range of inspection and preventive services. In coordination with our HVAC professionals, here are several themes you should keep in mind when looking to keep your costs and hassle to a minimum when it comes to your heating and air system.

Keep an Eye (And an Ear) Out

For starters, maybe the single most valuable thing you can do as a homeowner is simply pay attention to your HVAC system on a regular basis. Once you have a basic idea of how your system operates when it’s functioning properly – how it sounds, how long it runs for during heating or cooling season, how often filters need to be changed, etc. – you should also be able to identify occasions when the system is not operating normally.

In many cases, the first signs here are noises like rattling, grinding, buzzing or thumping. In others, you may notice actual performance issues like weak airflow, malfunctioning thermostats or pooling water near indoor units. The keener your eyes and ears are, the sooner you’ll spot these issues and can immediately remedy them before they worsen.

Regular Filter Replacement

Every 30 to 90 days, depending on the filter type and the details of your system, you should be changing out your air filters. This frequency increases if you have pets in the home, which add to the dust and dander levels in the air. Not only does changing filters at the proper intervals lead to cleaner, healthier air, it also keeps several HVAC components functioning optimally rather than wearing down too quickly.

Cleaning Areas

There are a few areas you can clean regularly to keep your HVAC system in peak shape:

  • Vents: Vacuuming in and around vents helps remove dust and dirt that might block airflow.
  • Outdoor unit: Outdoor AC condensers need regular maintenance too – make sure they’re free of leaves and other debris, plus cut back any nearby shrubs to give them space to breathe.
  • Ductwork: If your home has ductwork, schedule an inspection at least once every couple years with our HVAC technicians to ensure there are no blockages or leaks.

Inspection, Maintenance and Service Plans

Finally, involve our team as often as needed to ensure your system stays in good shape and never presents major costs. Our basic inspection and maintenance services are easily affordable on any budget, designed to limit larger risks that come with high price tags down the line.

For more on how to keep your HVAC costs low through basic approaches, or to learn about any of our heating and air services, speak to the team at Airtime Heating & Cooling today.

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