Arizona’s weather is known for its harsh summers and colder winters. For homeowners, this means having an HVAC system is a must 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.
In this blog, we’ll share simple and practical tips for keeping your HVAC system running smoothly throughout the year.
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, which can increase your energy bill. To avoid this, change your air filters every month, especially during seasons when you use the system a lot. Clean filters help improve airflow and can even lower energy costs by up to 15%. It’s a small task that goes a long way in keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter.
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 is important because it can prevent sudden breakdowns and help your system run more efficiently. You need to identify small issues early to avoid expensive repairs and ensure your system works well when you need it most.
3. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a great tool for saving energy. It lets you set specific temperatures for different times of the day. For example, you can 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. This simple change can make a big difference in how much energy your HVAC system uses.
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. Additionally, cleaning your ducts helps improve indoor air quality. Over time, dust and allergens can build up inside your ducts. Cleaning them regularly helps reduce allergies and keeps your system working well.
5. Clean Condenser Coils
The condenser coils in your HVAC system play a big role in how well it works. If the coils are dirty, your system has to work harder to heat or cool your home. This can reduce its efficiency by up to 30%. Cleaning these coils once a year is a simple way to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. A clean coil means better performance and longer-lasting equipment.
6. Clear the Area Around Outdoor Units
Your outdoor HVAC unit needs room to breathe. If the area around it is blocked by leaves, plants, or other debris, it can overheat and stop working efficiently. 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 when leaves and dust can quickly pile up.
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 this can damage the compressor. During your regular maintenance visits, ask the technician to check the refrigerant levels. Keeping these levels in check helps your system run efficiently and avoids costly repairs down the road.
With a little care and attention, your HVAC system will keep your home comfortable. All it takes is a bit of guidance from a local HVAC expert Call Brewer’s Air Conditioning & Heating to schedule a visit now!
