3 Ways To Reduce Wear And Tear On Your HVAC System

If like most homeowners, you likely rely on your HVAC system to keep indoor temperatures comfortable all year long. But every time your heater or air conditioner is run, it puts wear and tear on your overall HVAC system that can result in the need for expensive repairs as time goes on. Luckily, there are a few things you can do at home to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system, and maybe save yourself some money on energy at the same time. Consider using one or more of the following ideas:

Have the Air Ducts Cleaned

Having your air ducts cleaned once or twice a year, or when your filters and ducts are visually dirty, is an excellent way to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system and save yourself some money on energy expenses. A dirty HVAC system can waste up to 40 percent of the energy your household uses to heat and cool the space because the system has to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures indoors. Having your air ducts cleaned, or having duct repairs done if necessary, can also help improve your indoor air quality.

Install Energy Efficient Windows

Having new energy efficient windows installed in your home will lower your overall heating and cooling costs throughout the year, minimize unwanted indoor drafts, and reduce condensation buildup on the window themselves. Additionally, energy efficient windows are designed to resist UV ray penetration, which will protect your walls, floors, and furniture from fading due to sum damage. Once installed, you can increase the efficiency of your new windows by applying spray foam insulation on them to seal the frames and adding weatherstripping to any windows that open and close.

Make Use of Ceiling Fans

Decrease the overall workload of your HVAC system and therefore minimize wear and tear by installing a few ceiling fans throughout your home. As opposed to an average of 3,500 watts of power your HVAC system uses each hour while in use, ceiling fans typically use about 60 watts an hour to run. Running your ceiling fans at night in place of your air conditioner or heater can save you quite a bit of money on energy each month.

Program your ceiling fans to run counterclockwise in the summer, so the air is blown directly down into the space, creating continual air movement and breeze. During the winter, program your ceiling fans to run clockwise so the cold and warm air stays mixed in your home and it's easier to maintain comfortable temperatures.

These tips and tricks should ensure that you're able to stay comfortable indoors year-round without putting unnecessary wear and tear on your HVAC system. You'll likely save quite a bit of money on your energy costs throughout the year too!