The holidays are a time for gathering with friends and family. People spend more time at home and, therefore, need a properly functioning HVAC system. With the many activities and events clamoring for your attention, you might forget to monitor your heating and cooling units. However, with the help of our team at Simply Air Conditioning Heating & Plumbing, you will always know how to keep everything running.
Regulate Thermostat Settings
The thermostat controls the room temperature and plays a significant role in your HVAC operations. A programable thermostat lets you pre-set your desired temperatures and automatically adjust at various times. This helps you save money by lowering the temperature when people are sleeping or at work and automatically raising it again. If you use a programmable thermostat, you may need to adjust the settings this time of year. As holiday schedules can vary your routine, you might want the house to stay warm later than usual.
For more control and convenience, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. With these Wi-Fi-enabled devices, you can set and change your thermostat from your mobile device wherever you are. Some models can even tell when you’re on your way home, so if you have to come home early, the house will be warm and toasty when you arrive.
Replace the Filter
The filter for your HVAC system needs regular changing to allow it to remove dust and unwanted particles in the air. As the heater continues working, the filter may get clogged, significantly reducing the airflow. You might notice less air from your vents, or the heater might take longer to reach the desired temperature.
The best solution is replacing the filter with a new one for better airflow and indoor air quality. The HVAC units will also work more efficiently since they won’t need to work as hard to reach the pre-set temperature. Filters should be changed at least once every three months. If you have pets, you want to change it more often.
Switch Ceiling Fan Direction
Did you know that the rotation direction of your ceiling fan can affect the room temperature and functioning of the HVAC system? During summer, fans should rotate counterclockwise. This creates a down draft like a cooling breeze. You may be able to set your AC a little warmer while still feeling comfortable.
In winter, switch the blades to rotate clockwise. The updraft creates better circulation, moving the warm air evenly throughout the home. You might be able to turn down the thermostat and still feel comfortable.
Different fans will have different ways to change the direction. Some have a knob or switch. With others, you can use a remote or a mobile device.
Professional Repairs and Maintenance
One of the biggest things you can do to ensure your HVAC system works properly throughout the holidays is to schedule a maintenance visit. At Simply Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing, we recommend annual maintenance check-ups for all heating and cooling units. These appointments help us know how well your system operates and what repairs it might need.
During these sessions, we inspect all parts, identify signs of trouble, and correct any issues. These tune-ups ensure your heating and cooling system works as energy efficiently as possible. They can also prevent unexpected breakdowns that could ruin your holiday.
Well before your guests arrive, pay attention to any signs that your heating system could be having problems. We recommend calling for professional assistance whenever you notice signs of malfunctioning. Prompt repairs can help prevent significant damage and a complete breakdown. Correcting a problem in a timely manner makes the unit perform efficiently. It consumes less energy, allowing you to save on your monthly bills.
Maintenance should always be handled by a trained technician. Trying to maintain or repair your HVAC system yourself has inherent safety risks. It could cost more when a professional needs to fix your mistake. It could also void your warranty.
Some of the benefits of working with a professional HVAC technician include the following:
- Easy troubleshooting
- Efficient work
- Extended unit lifespan
- No repeated malfunctions
- Thorough assessment
Remove Obstructions from the Vents
You might easily overlook your vents when the home is bustling with visitors and children. People might accidentally place luggage and items in front of the vent, obstructing airflow. When this happens, you risk overheating the system since all the heated air gets trapped inside the system. The room will also get reduced heating, reducing the comfort level. Checking that nothing obstructs the vents ensures an unrestricted airflow for maximum comfort.
Many furnaces, especially ones that burn fossil fuel, have an air intake vent outside the home. This is necessary to prevent overheating and for proper ventilation. If your system has an outside air intake, make sure it is unobstructed.
If you have a heat pump, you should periodically check the outdoor unit for obstructions. With strong winds and storms, you might find branches, debris, leaves, and other items blocking them. This inhibits the unit’s ability to collect heat and transfer it inside. Clear the area around the unit to allow it to work optimally. You can also invest in a cover that shields it from items that fall around it while allowing enough air circulation.
Monitor Space Heaters
Many homeowners use space heaters to heat a space quickly. However, these heaters can pose a risk, especially when placed improperly or plugged in incorrectly. Our team advises all our clients to use space heaters only when necessary. You can put them in rooms with minimal heating or when the HVAC systems are not working optimally.
Due to the amount of heat space heaters release, your home can quickly exceed the desired temperature. Be sure to place the device away from any soft objects, such as furnishing, drapes, and pillows. This can lower the risk of fire if it overheats. To avoid accidents, do not allow children to play around the heater.
Since space heaters consume a lot of energy, it is better to rely on your HVAC for heating. You’ll find it easier to regulate the indoor environment without risking electrical faults. Your heater will also convey heat through the vents, preventing overheating and fires.
Conclusion
At Simply Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing, we prioritize your comfort and work hard to keep your family happy. Our excellence in HVAC services helps numerous families in the area to enjoy energy efficiency and extended unit lifespans. We maintain long-lasting relationships with all our clients, allowing you to rely on us in all seasons.
Our company equips each technician with modern equipment to repair and install any HVAC equipment they encounter. We also schedule regular training sessions to keep pace with trends and technological advancements. We guarantee value for your money and 100% customer satisfaction. Since we understand the importance of a fully functional HVAC system during the holidays, we respond promptly and give our best.
Talk to the Simply Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing team for the best HVAC solutions in the area.