Acker Heating & Cooling

Regardless of the season, it’s crucial to keep your cooling and heating systems in good condition. This means ensuring proper care for your HVAC equipment through regular cleaning and tune-ups as well as timely repairs. In this post, Acker Heating & Cooling discusses seven HVAC maintenance mistakes that you should stop doing this year. 

1. Overlooking Programmable Thermostat Settings

A programmable thermostat offers the convenience of setting the temperature in different zones of your home. However, the greatest trick isn’t simply having one; it’s using it correctly. Avoid leaving your thermostat at a constant temperature around the clock. Instead, adjust settings to accommodate different times of the day so you can save on energy and cut costs.

2. Neglecting Regular Filter Replacement

Air filters are more than simple components; they are the lungs of your HVAC system. A dirty filter forces your system to work harder, increasing your energy bills and potentially leading to costly repairs. Remember to check and replace your filters every few months or more frequently, depending on usage and environment.

3. Forgetting About Outdoor Units

The outdoor unit of your HVAC system plays a vital role in the efficiency of your heating and air conditioning processes. Unfortunately, it’s easy to forget about this part since it’s out of sight. Ensure that you keep the area around the unit clear of debris and have the coils cleaned annually to prevent reduced efficiency and potential system failure.

4. Choosing the Incorrect MERV Rating

While high-efficiency air filters might seem like the best choice, they aren’t always ideal for every system. Filters with higher MERV ratings can restrict airflow, making your system less efficient. Balance is key; choose a filter with an appropriate MERV rating that maintains good air quality without overburdening your system.

5. Skipping Professional Maintenance

Often, HVAC issues may not be evident until they become major problems. That’s why routine professional check-ups are essential. Have a qualified technician inspect your system bi-annually — typically during spring and fall — to ensure everything is running at peak performance. This proactive approach can save you from expensive repairs or replacements down the line.

6. Overlooking Early Warning Signs

Ignoring strange noises or odors from your HVAC system is a mistake that can lead to larger issues. It’s crucial to call in professionals when you notice anything amiss. Whether it’s a rattling noise, a burning smell, or inefficiencies in performance, addressing these signs early can prevent more serious damage to your HVAC system.

7. DIY-ing Complex Maintenance Tasks

While you can handle some HVAC maintenance tasks, such as cleaning vents or replacing filters, you should leave complex repairs to experienced technicians. Attempting to fix serious issues without proper training and tools can exacerbate the problem and lead to bigger expenses or safety risks.

By recognizing and avoiding these common HVAC maintenance mistakes, you can ensure your heating and cooling systems remain effective and efficient throughout the year. Acker Heating & Cooling is a trusted residential and commercial HVAC expert, and we’re ready to provide you with prompt, personalized services. Call us at (706) 425-8774 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation.