Arizona's weather is known for its harsh summers and colder winters. For homeowners, this means having an HVAC system that can handle both heat and cold. Regular maintenance and small adjustments can significantly improve how your system works, saving you from high energy bills and unexpected repairs.
Tips for Keeping your HVAC System Running Smoothly
1. Regularly Change Air Filters
Air filters are key to keeping your system running well. Arizona's dry climate brings a lot of dust, which can quickly clog filters. When air filters get dirty, your system has to work harder. To avoid this, change your air filters every month, especially during seasons when you use the system a lot. Clean filters can lower energy costs by up to 15%.
2. Schedule Seasonal Tune-Ups
Twice a year, schedule a professional tune-up for your HVAC system — once before the hot summer and once before the cooler winter. During these check-ups, a technician will inspect, clean, and adjust parts of your system to make sure everything is working properly. This can prevent sudden breakdowns and help your system run more efficiently.
3. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat lets you set specific temperatures for different times of the day. For example, set it to cool your home when you're there and use less energy when you're away. Setting your thermostat to 78°F when you're out can reduce your energy use without sacrificing comfort when you come home.
4. Seal and Clean Your Ducts
Leaky ducts waste a lot of energy because cool or warm air escapes before reaching the rooms in your home. Sealing ducts with mastic sealant or duct tape ensures the air flows efficiently. Cleaning your ducts also helps improve indoor air quality.
5. Clean Condenser Coils
The condenser coils in your HVAC system play a big role in how well it works. Dirty coils can reduce efficiency by up to 30%. Cleaning these coils once a year is a simple way to keep your HVAC system running smoothly.
6. Clear the Area Around Outdoor Units
Your outdoor HVAC unit needs room to breathe. Make sure there's at least two to three feet of open space around the unit. Regularly check the area for any obstructions, especially during Arizona's windy seasons.
7. Check Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant levels can hurt your HVAC system's performance. If the refrigerant is too low, your system will struggle to cool your home and can damage the compressor. During regular maintenance visits, ask the technician to check refrigerant levels.
With a little care and attention, your HVAC system will keep your home comfortable all year long. Call Brewer's Air Conditioning & Heating to schedule a visit now!
About the Author
Mark Ybarra
Mark Ybarra is the owner and leader of Brewer's Air Conditioning & Heating, a trusted HVAC company serving Tempe, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, and surrounding Arizona communities since 1982. After working in multiple roles within the company, Mark officially took ownership in 2018 and continues to uphold Brewer's long-standing commitment to integrity, exceptional service, and customer satisfaction.
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