With August in our lives, kids across the country are getting ready to go back to school. The end of summer also means a change in seasons and a shift in demands on your HVAC system.
In the spirit of the season, we at Barker Heating & Cooling want to take adults back to school to learn more about their at-home HVAC system.
With a little insight, you may be able to keep your system running in top shape for longer, a win-win for everyone!
HVAC Systems – What Are They?
In simple terms, an HVAC system is the system that heats and cools your home. There are three main types of HVAC systems, the most common of which being Forced Air Systems.
These systems work by pushing cold or hot air through ductwork that disperses it throughout the house. Other common systems include Gravity Systems and Radiant Systems.
Ductwork is the main way that hot or cold air travel through the home. Hot air will originate from a furnace with a blower to push the air, and cold air will emanate from an air conditioning unit. The brain of the HVAC system is the thermostat, a device that measures the temperature within the home and tells the system what to do based on the settings you choose.
HVAC System Maintenance – Tips and Tricks
HVAC System Maintenance is crucial to both extending the life of your system and to make sure your system is working to its full potential. Thankfully, there are a number of things you can do on your own to help keep your system in tip-top shape.
Keep Your System Clean & Clear: Most HVAC systems rely on airflow to work, and slowing that airflow will greatly reduce your system’s effectiveness. Make sure all vents are clean and free of clutter and clear the space around your air conditioning unit of leaves and other debris.- Remember to Change Your Filter: Changing your system’s air filters routinely will not only help your system to perform at its best but will also help to maintain a high level of air quality within your home.
- Replace Old Parts: Sometimes the best way to get your HVAC system to work better is to replace older and out of date parts. Old ductwork could be leaking air before it ever affects your home, and old thermostats could be faulty and causing your system to run more frequently than it needs to.
Keep Your System Clean & Clear: Most HVAC systems rely on airflow to work, and slowing that airflow will greatly reduce your system’s effectiveness. Make sure all vents are clean and free of clutter and clear the space around your air conditioning unit of leaves and other debris.HVAC Repair – Is Professional Help Needed?
Sometimes, maintenance isn’t enough, and full-on HVAC repairs are needed to get your system back to working condition.
This could be caused by the failure of a major component, like the primary motor or main coil.
You may need to replace your system to rectify a bad installation, or to right-size the system to the space you’re heating and cooling. You might find yourself constantly needing repairs on the system, a sign that your system might be at the end of its lifespan and a full replacement is needed.
Whatever the reason, it’s important to recognize when a problem is a simple fix or an indication that a full system replacement is needed. The end of summer is an opportunity to think about your HVAC system and whether it’s working to its full potential. With colder weather around the corner, checking your system now will pay dividends later. Call us to learn more about getting your HVAC system checked out.
