If you are experiencing issues with the performance of your HVAC system, seeking professional assistance from an inspection service could help. A replacement system might be in order if your home seems unevenly cooled, or your energy bills seem excessively high.
Your thermostat is the brain of your system and should save energy by only turning your system on when necessary. A quality thermostat should save money and resources by turning it on only when necessary.
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1. Check your utility bills
Reviewing your energy bills is one easy way to tell whether or not your HVAC system is operating effectively. Any significant increases may indicate something is amiss with your system and may require replacement.
Be sure that your home is well insulated, without air leaks that allow conditioned air to escape and allow outside air in, to maintain an even temperature and reduce how hard your HVAC system has to work. Doing this will keep you at a constant temperature and decrease your workload.
As part of your regular maintenance plan, it’s also important that you regularly change the air filters in your home. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder and consume more energy – this quick fix could substantially impact your energy bill. It is worth investing in reusable filters for cost savings.
2. Check the temperature in every room
Your AC system’s inefficiency could cost you higher energy bills and less-than-chilled rooms, and ensuring it operates at its full potential is easy. There are some simple measures you can take to keep it running effectively.
If your air vents are blowing warmer than intended, chances are the coils require cleaning and lubrication, or your thermostat could need recalibration.
To gauge your unit’s efficiency accurately, place a thermometer in each air vent and compare its output temperature with that set in its settings. Air that comes out should be around 20 degrees cooler than what goes in; otherwise, you should contact an HVAC company in your area to take a look. They may access your attic or basement to audit all ductwork systems.
3. Check the airflow
Air is drawn in through an AC unit and then distributed throughout a home through air ducts; if one room seems cooler or warmer than others, this may indicate that your system isn’t distributing air evenly.
Blocked vents can restrict air from moving freely. Lint and paper debris may collect in these vents and make airflow difficult. Regularly wiping down these vents will ensure they work efficiently.
Test airflow by checking the temperatures at both return and supply vents. To do this, position a thermometer near the AC equipment and leave it there for five minutes; check whether air coming out from the return vent is at least 15 degrees cooler than air entering it – otherwise, your AC might require AC maintenance services or tuning-up.
4. Check the filters
Most HVAC systems feature filters as a protective measure between their interior and the air that passes through. When these filters become dirty, their efficiency decreases significantly, and utility bills skyrocket – not ideal.
If your customers notice a sudden and consistent increase in their energy bill without an obvious weather or seasonal factor, it could be time for air filter replacement. Dust build-up around vents indicates that their filter needs replacing soon.
When replacing the filter, be sure it is the appropriate size and is installed correctly. Look for an arrow on its frame indicating which direction it should face–usually away from the return air duct and toward the fan mechanism. Also, record when and where it was purchased as a reminder.
