As we enter January, ready to paint a new year filled with possibilities, chances are you’ve already set this year’s goals to improve different areas of your life. Whether it’s finances, academics, fitness, or personal growth, here’s to a successful year! This age-old tradition, dating back to the ancient Babylonians, was initially a way to honor their king and welcome a bountiful farming season.
But how does this ancient tradition connect with HVAC? The answer lies in the dedication of your local experts at Madeira Heating & Air to not only improve your life but also your HVAC maintenance routines. As a homeowner, it’s natural to want your system to run smoothly. We want that for you, too! So, we are here to remind you that you can achieve this by including your HVAC system in your New Year’s resolutions. Simply follow these eight key steps to boost your HVAC habits and hopefully ensure a hassle-free year ahead.
Resolve to Do Your Maintenance Checks
Remember, seasonal maintenance checks are important! Don’t give in to the temptation of skipping them, even if everything seems fine. These checks are your way of being proactive and taking care of any minor issues before they become major problems. By skipping maintenance checks, you not only risk long-term damage but also void your manufacturer’s warranty. So, make it a point to stay ahead by scheduling a check for your AC in the spring and another for your furnace before it starts getting chilly in the fall.
Resolve to Change Your Air Filters
Make a commitment to a simple yet impactful routine by changing your air filters every 1-2 months. Dirty filters make your system work harder, which means more energy consumption and higher costs. By sticking to industry standards and swapping them out for a fresh filter as often as suggested, this easy HVAC resolution helps keep your HVAC unit running efficiently all year round.
Resolve to Clean Your HVAC Vents
Clogged vents can mess with air quality and mess up HVAC efficiency. When they become overladen with dust bunnies, the air won’t be able to easily flow through them – not to mention the air in your home will be negatively affected by the dust buildup being strewn throughout it. So, make sure to include your HVAC vents in your regular cleaning routine. This little step adds up to a healthier living environment by boosting overall air quality.
Resolve to Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
If you haven’t already, step into the future by upgrading to a smart thermostat! Take control of your home’s temperature from anywhere, save energy, and sync temperatures with your weekly schedule. Smart thermostats are super convenient and energy-efficient, making them a smart investment. Feel free to reach out to us for more info!
Resolve to Check Your Attic Insulation Depth
Does your HVAC system seem like it’s constantly running to keep up with the temperature in your home? If this resonates with you, the culprit to your HVAC woes may just be inadequate insulation. If you are safely able to check your attic insulation, we recommend doing so. Attic insulation should be a minimum of ten inches deep. If your current insulation doesn’t meet this standard, this year is a good time to think about upgrading to save energy and keep your home cozy.
Resolve to Clean Your Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures
Just like your HVAC vents, dusty ceiling fans and light fixtures can mess up the air quality in your home. Don’t worry, though; you can easily prevent this by adding them to your cleaning regimen as well. Regular cleaning stops these things from messing with your indoor air quality and putting unnecessary strain on your HVAC system.
Resolve to Check on Your Condenser
Another thing you can make an HVAC habit is to regularly check and clear the area around your condenser, even in the winter when your AC is not in use. You want to ensure that no outdoor items, branches, or sticks have fallen onto or around the unit. This simple practice can save you from HVAC troubles and protect your condenser from damage.
Resolve to Get Your Ductwork Cleaned
Over time, your ductwork will naturally gather dust, loose debris, and other small airborne particles. And dirty or clogged ducts can mess with your HVAC efficiency and indoor air quality (IAQ). Since your ducts are responsible for spreading air throughout your home, keeping them clean is super important for a healthier living space. So, how often should you clean your ducts? A good rule of thumb is every three to five years. If you can’t remember the last time you had them professionally cleaned, it’s a pretty good sign that this year is the perfect time to get it done!
By adding these eight HVAC resolutions to your yearly plan, you’ll set the stage for a healthier, more efficient HVAC system. Just remember that sticking to good practices and forming positive HVAC habits will help keep issues at bay, making for a smoother and hopefully trouble-free year for you and your family!
Call Madeira Heating & Air at any time all year long (513) 655-5125, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!