New Year’s Resolutions for Your HVAC

The start of a new year is usually brimming with excitement and promises – lose weight, eat healthier, and quit smoking. But it doesn’t have to end there – make sure you show your home some TLC too this year and commit to staying on top of it’s needs. If you’re a homeowner (or your resolution is to become a homeowner) here are a few ways to keep your HVAC system running smoothly.

Schedule maintenance. Just like you bring your car in for an inspection every year, you need to do the same with your HVAC system. Routine HVAC maintenance can help,

• reach peak efficiency: If your system is not working efficiently, it can be driving up your energy bill. A technician may be able to fix any small problems and bring your system to it’s peak performance.

• identify worn parts: You never want to wait until a pipe is cracked or your system won’t turn on to call a technician. With regular maintenance, a technician may be able to find small problems and patch or repair them before they become a bigger issue.

Change air filters. Dust, pollen and pet dander naturally build up in filters over time and when they’re cleaned out regularly, it can help,

• extend your HVAC’s life: The most common reason why a system breaks down is because of a clogged filter. A dirty filter can make it hard for air to pass and in the most serious cases can cause the system to overheat.

• cut energy costs: If air can’t easily pass through the filter, your HVAC has to work harder to force it through, meaning it’s using up more energy and working less efficiently – costing you money.

• improve air quality: Dirty air filters worsen the air quality in your home by blowing dirt and dust from room to room. If you have allergy sufferers in the house, you should consider having the filters cleaned twice a year instead of just once.

Use natural heat sources. Instead of relying on oil, try taking advantage of more natural heat, like,

• opening the curtains: Direct sunlight can easily raise the temperature of your house 5 degrees in the winter, so be careful not to block that heat with thick, closed blinds.

• switching to solar power: By the end of this year, 1 million homes will have switched to solar power. In addition to the money saved on your energy bill, solar power is better for the environment.

• utilizing your fireplace: If you have one, light a wood burning fireplace instead of raising the heat – but make sure that keep that heat from escaping through the chimney by buying a balloon.

Switch to a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats let you customize a schedule of when the heat comes up throughout the day, based on your family’s routine. With a programmable thermostat, you’ll,

• have a set a schedule: If you work regular hours during the day, you can set the thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when you leave or before you return home.

• save energy: A pre–set schedule will lower your home’s temperature during the day when it is unoccupied, keeping it at a more energy efficient temperature.

• have peace of mind: Now there will be no more forgetting to turn the thermostat down before bed, or calling someone at the house and asking them to turn the heat on for company coming over.

By calling your professional HVAC technician, you can schedule maintenance or an air duct cleaning to restore your system. At Leslie Heating and Cooling, the comfort of your home is our top priority. That’s why we offer everything from HVAC installation, to repairs and maintenance, and even air purifiers. We are a family-owned and operated business based in Woodridge, Illinois and is here for all of your emergency needs, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn even more, give us a call at (630) 576-9235 or visit our website.