Are you getting a new HVAC system, and you want to know how to make it last? Or do you already have one? It is always important to know how to properly care for your air conditioning, heating, and cooling systems. Proper maintenance will ensure you get the most out of your systems and will also save you money on repairs and replacements. Our professionals at Rod Miller are here to share some insight with you on how to prolong your HVAC system’s lifespan.

Schedule HVAC maintenance

Having a set schedule to check your HVAC every year is one of the best ways to keep it working for as long as possible. It’s best to schedule a spring maintenance or a fall maintenance. This way, you know your HVAC system is ready for the seasons it works hardest in. 

When you schedule professional HVAC maintenance, a trained person will make sure it works right and fix minor problems before they grow. They will also clean parts and check if everything’s running as it should. 

Something that you can do by yourself is change your air filters. You should put in new filters every three months, approximately, or even more if you have pets or lots of dust. This keeps your system running smoothly and helps it last longer. Regular care means a healthier HVAC and lower bills for you. Keep your system in good shape, and it will do the same for your home.

Adjust the Thermostat

Using your home thermostat wisely can make your HVAC system’s lifespan longer. If you keep your home at a steady, not-too-hot, and not-too-cold temperature, your HVAC doesn’t have to work as hard. Here’s how easy changes to your thermostat settings can help:

When you turn the temperature up in the summer or down in the winter, even by a little, your HVAC doesn’t have to run as much. This means it won’t wear out as quickly. A programmable thermostat is great for this because it can change the temperature for you when you’re not home or when you’re sleeping.

Also, keeping your home at a constant temperature stops your HVAC from turning on and off too much. This on-off cycle can be harsh on the system. When you keep the temperature steady, the HVAC keeps running smoothly, which is easier on it and can make it last longer. And, as an additional plus, it can save you money on that utility bill. 

Protect the Outdoor Unit

Looking after the outdoor part of your HVAC helps it last longer. This piece of the system is crucial because it contains parts that help cool your home.

Use a cover in bad weather, but only when the unit isn’t running. A good cover keeps out leaves, rain, and snow, which can cause rust or other damage. Just make sure you don’t cover it while it’s on, as this could make it too hot and lead to problems.

You can also post a barrier around the unit. This can prevent damage from unexpected accidents, like if a storm blows branches around or when you’re doing yard work. Set up a small fence, but leave enough room for air to move freely and for you to reach the unit for any service it might need.

Keep the area around your HVAC unit trimmed and clean. Overgrown plants can block airflow and cause the unit to work harder, which can wear it out. Regularly clear away plant growth, leaves, and debris to avoid blockages.

In essence, shielding your outdoor unit from the weather, guarding it against physical damage, and keeping its surrounding area neat can significantly contribute to the efficiency and longevity of your HVAC system.

Avoid DIY HVAC Repairs

We know that doing your own repairs in your home can sometimes look like you are saving money. And for some repairs, this might be true. Still, attempting DIY repairs on an HVAC system can do more harm than good. These systems are complex, and you can easily misdiagnose a problem or create a new one if you don’t have the proper knowledge. Here’s a closer look at the risks:

When you don’t have the right training, you might fix what looks like the issue but miss a bigger problem. This oversight can lead to more severe damage later, resulting in higher repair costs or the need to replace your system entirely. 

HVAC systems consist of many interconnected parts. Mistakes made during a DIY fix can affect other areas, leading to further malfunctions. For example, incorrect handling of the system’s wiring could lead to electrical problems, while a mistake with the gas lines could create a leak.

Warranties on HVAC systems often require that a certified technician perform all repairs. If you try to fix it yourself, you might void this warranty, which means you’ll have to pay out of pocket for any future repairs.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Equipment

You might consider upgrading your HVAC system to a new, energy-efficient one. Energy-efficient HVAC systems are made to do their job without using a lot of power. They have the latest technology and better parts, which means they don’t have to work as hard to keep your home comfortable. Think of it like a runner pacing themselves in a marathon instead of sprinting. If your HVAC isn’t pushing its limits all the time, it’s likely to last longer because it has less wear and tear.

These newer systems often come with smart features. For example, they might have motors that can change speeds or thermostats that learn your schedule. These smart parts can fine-tune how much heating or cooling to provide and when. This careful control means the system isn’t always running at full blast, which can burn out parts faster.

Also, energy-efficient models are usually built to meet high standards. Better build quality means parts can take more use over time before they break down. So you won’t have to fix or replace things as often.

Energy-saving systems also don’t turn on and off as much as older models. Turning on and off a lot can wear out an HVAC system. If it runs in a more steady way, it’s gentler on all the parts, helping the whole system stay in shape for more years.

Keep HVAC System’s Lifespan Long With Proper Care

As you can see, taking care of your HVAC system doesn’t have to be hard. With proper maintenance and care, your HVAC system’s lifespan can last for a long time. You can always learn more about changing your air filters or preparing the system for winter from one of our articles. And for any concerns you might have, Rod Miller’s professional team is here to help.