HVAC Habits to Avoid (and Good Practices to Start)

How you take care of your HVAC system will affect its longevity and efficiency. With proper maintenance and use, your equipment will last longer. However, many things you do could be doing more harm than good for your heating and cooling system. 

Here are some bad HVAC habits you need to avoid and good ones to start. 

Habits to Stop

Closing or Obstructing Vents

Closing vents and registers will restrict airflow in your home, causing your equipment to run longer. When this happens, the unit’s components will suffer, causing it to fail faster and the evaporator coil to freeze. Avoid placing large pieces of furniture or decor directly in front of vents.

Covering the Condenser

Another thing you shouldn’t cover is the condenser. Doing so will disrupt air circulation and reduce the service life of your HVAC system. Besides the unit running longer, your comfort will also start to be affected. 

Frequently Adjusting the Thermostat

The most challenging thing your heating and cooling equipment has to do is to power up and shut down. Adjusting your thermostat frequently will cause your HVAC system to cycle on and off more often, resulting in more wear and tear. 

Good Practices to Start

Replacing Filters Regularly

One of the most common causes of HVAC malfunction is neglecting filter replacements. Dirty filters restrict airflow in your HVAC system and strain the equipment, increasing the likelihood of breakdowns and early failure. You can save yourself from this problem with regular filter replacements.

Leaving Repairs to Professionals

Keep in mind that HVAC-related jobs are always best handled by professionals. They have undergone extensive training and possess the right tools to perform a task safely. Heating and cooling systems are more complex than you think. Tinkering with one when you don’t have any knowledge of it can result in further damage and even system failure. 

Scheduling Routine Maintenance

Routine tune-ups are vital to the longevity of your HVAC system. Regular inspections allow professionals to catch small issues that can later compromise performance and reduce the lifespan of your HVAC system. If your unit requires repair, have it fixed right away.

Let experienced professionals handle your home’s HVAC needs. At Perfect Degree HVAC, our skilled technicians are here to ensure your living space stays comfortable all year round. Call us at (610) 529-7372 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.