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Everything Homeowners Need to Know About Heating and Cooling in 2022

Posted on February 4, 2022 by

Homeowners Should Avoid These HVAC Mistakes in the New Year 

When power outages, electrical fires, and other complications arise, homeowners often wonder: “What went wrong?” The answer is usually simple: a lack of preventive maintenance. HVAC systems aren’t a “fix-it-and-forget-it” deal. It requires annual inspections, constant monitoring, and prompt action. 

Homeowners can start the new year right by replacing their air filters, leaving air vents open, and calling an AC maintenance company. A seasoned professional can give more insight into what measures can keep an HVAC system up and running. 

Failing to Replace the Air Conditioner’s Filter filter

Consumer Reports says it all; homeowners should change their AC’s air filters every six to 12 months. However, some factors may require more frequent changes. Consider the following: 
  • The more an HVAC system runs, the more often one needs to change the air filter – typically during the summer or winter.
  • Homeowners with pets should change their air filters more frequently. Cat hair and dog dander can clog the air filter, making it difficult for the HVAC system to cool or heat the home. 
  • Each home requires a different air filter. Generally, the bigger the unit, the bigger the air filter. 

If homeowners fail to regularly change their home’s air filter, they risk fires, high energy bills, and other complications. In short, air filter maintenance is crucial to a home’s function. 

Closing the Home’s Air Vents vent

There is no problem closing a car’s AC vents when it gets too hot or cold. In the home, there is absolutely no reason to close the vents. This can cause pressure within the HVAC system, which strains the system. It also creates mold and mildew build-up where homeowners can see the damage. 

If the home is too hot or too cold, instead of closing the vents, homeowners should: 

  • Check the thermostat. If the thermostat’s reading doesn’t match the temperature in the home, this could signal an underlying problem. 
  • Consider alternative cooling and heating measures. Homeowners can opt for fans and space heaters to control their homes’ temperature. 
  • Call an AC repair company. As noted, a professional can access an HVAC unit and diagnose any problems. 
  • Change the air filter. Homeowners panic when the HVAC system turns off. However, the system needs a new air filter more often than not. Most hardware stores sell these items for less than $15 each. 

 

Failing to Schedule Regular Maintenance Visits 

Homeowners should have their HVAC units inspected at least once a year. However, this issue may warrant more frequent visits: 

  • Older homes generally have older systems and are prone to problems
  • Many animals reside in the home
  • The home’s residents smoke indoors
  • The home itself isn’t up to code
  • Homeowners encounter the same problems over and over again

A professional may recommend heater repair, central heating re-installation, or other central air conditioning services. They can also share more information about preventative measures to ensure an HVAC unit’s functionality. 

About Albritton Service Co. 

Ruston, LA residents don’t have to worry about their HVAC systems failing. That’s because Albritton Service Co. is always there to help. To learn more about their suite of heating services, interested parties can call today.

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