Four HVAC Mistakes All Homeowners Should Avoid

Are you taking proper care of your HVAC system? While you may have good intentions, your habits could actually be harming your air conditioning unit. These mistakes can cost you time, money, and ultimately the health of your air conditioner. Here are some very common mistakes to avoid when maintaining your unit:

Not Performing Maintenance

One of the worst things you can do to your HVAC system is to fail to perform the proper maintenance it needs to function efficiently. Like most homeowners, you are likely using your unit for most of the year, making it one of the hardest working systems in your entire home. To keep everything running smoothly, make sure you have it professionally serviced twice a year by a technician. In addition, make sure to always change the filter every three months and trim back any shrubbery or bushes that grow around the outdoor condenser.

Choosing a System that is Too Large for Your Home

When you choose an air conditioner for your home, don't make the mistake of getting one that is too large for your house. Some people believe that the bigger the unit, the better it will cool and heat your home. The opposite is actually true. If you choose a larger unit, you may end up with a system that does not cool or heat your home as efficiently as it should. You will also end up with a higher electricity bill because larger units will require more power to operate.

Thermostat Too Low

Many people have a habit of turning the thermostat down lower than necessary in order to cool a room faster. Unfortunately, air only cools at one speed, so leaving the thermostat low is not going to cool the room any quicker. Turning the temperature too low also causes your HVAC unit to work really hard, causing more strain on your system. If you forget to set the temperature back up once your home reaches a comfortable temperature, your AC unit will suffer.

Closing Off Extra Rooms

Another common mistake is closing off the vents in rooms that are seldom used to allow the air to circulate through the rest of the house. This will work in the short-term, but it could cause damage to your air conditioner unit over time. By keeping certain vents closed, you increase the pressure on the rest of the system. This can result in duct leaks and cause other mechanical problems.

When you install an HVAC system in your home, make sure you actively avoid these common mistakes. Doing so will ensure that your air conditioner will remain in good working condition for years to come.