5 Tips for Keeping Your HVAC System Running Efficiently

As a homeowner in Glen Burnie, Maryland, you rely on your HVAC system to keep your home comfortable throughout the year. However, if your HVAC system isn't running efficiently, you could be wasting energy and money.

A poorly maintained HVAC system can prevent your unit from properly heating and cooling and can also run up your bills due to running harder than it needs to. Keeping your HVAC systems running efficiently can extend its life and keep your home comfortable. 

This blog will cover a few tips for homeowners to keep their HVAC systems running optimally.

Benefits of maintaining your HVAC systems

Before we go into the “what” we should first discuss the “why.” As a homeowner, it’s important to understand why you should take the effort to ensure your HVAC systems remain as clean and efficient as possible. 

1. Extends the life of the HVAC unit
2. Can prevent issues leading to costly repairs
3. Allows for continued heating and cooling performance
   • This keeps heating and cooling expenses at normal ranges
   • Keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter
4. Better indoor air quality

Anything mechanical will eventually break down. However, dust, rust and other debris hinders performance and can cause it to break down sooner. By taking time to maintain your HVAC systems, you can expect a more efficient and longer-lasting system that won’t nickel and dime you. 

Now that you know why, let us show you what you can do.

Change Your Air Filters Regularly

Dirty air filters can cause your HVAC system to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan for your system. Changing your filters is an easy way to ensure your HVAC system runs smoothly.  

A dirty air filter will not filter air properly. This will cause your AC or Furnace to struggle to properly heat or cool your home. After awhile, dust and particles will begin moving into parts of your system causing them to eventually break down. 

If you want to keep your systems efficient, start by cleaning or changing the filters. 

Depending on the air filters, and air pollutants (dust, animal dander, etc.) they should be changed every few months.

Schedule Annual Maintenance

Regular maintenance can help prevent costly breakdowns and extend the life of your HVAC system. During our scheduled maintenance calls we check several parts for proper operation, clean the system to keep it dust and debris free, test proper functionality and provide service recommendations. 

With scheduled maintenance, your HVAC systems will stay tuned up and you will catch issues before they occur.  

Schedule an annual maintenance appointment with a professional HVAC technician to have your system inspected and tuned up.

Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can help you save energy and money by automatically adjusting the temperature in your home based on your schedule. You can set your thermostat to lower the temperature when you're away from home and raise it when you're back to ensure maximum efficiency.

With a smart thermostat, you can change your home’s temperature in case you forgot before leaving the house. Some thermostats will even allow you to check energy usage over time allowing you to make decisions about your heating and cooling.

Seal Your Ductwork

Leaky ductwork can cause air to escape, leading to inefficiencies in your HVAC system. Escaping air can end up in unwanted areas like the basement or attic instead of going to the living spaces in your home. Leaks in your ductwork don’t just allow air to escape but can allow dirt and dust to enter the ductwork pushing it out into your living spaces. 

If you’re finding hot and cold spots in your home or your HVAC system seems to be working but not efficiently. It might be time to seal the ductwork.

Have a professional inspect and seal your ductwork to prevent air leaks and improve your system's performance.

Consider Upgrading to a High-Efficiency System

If your HVAC system is old or inefficient, it may be time to consider upgrading to a high-efficiency system. Not only will this save you money on energy bills, but it can also improve the comfort of your home and increase your property value.

First, consider the above tips. If you’ve changed your filters, checked the ductwork and there are no issues causing inefficiencies in your HVAC system, then it might be time for an upgrade. 

If you need help with HVAC maintenance, repairs, upgrades, or have a question, then contact our team. We are your Glen Burnie, Maryland HVAC experts dedicated to exceeding customer expectations with honest, professional and highly trained employees.