Becoming a new homeowner is an exciting journey, and understanding your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is key to ensuring comfort and efficiency in your new space. Here you'll find several helpful tips about your HVAC system as a new homeowner.
8 HVAC Tips For New Homeowners
1. Indoor air quality (IAQ) matters
Indoor air quality affects your family's health and comfort. A well-maintained HVAC system can help improve IAQ. Consider investing in an air scrubber, air purifier, and/or humidifier, and ensure proper ventilation for clean and fresh air.
2. Change your filters regularly
Changing your air filters keeps your family healthy. Filters trap dust, allergens, and dangerous pollutants. Check them every 60-90 days and replace them as needed. Clean filters keep the system running efficiently and promote better IAQ.
3. Keep up with your annual maintenance
Regular maintenance by a professional HVAC technician is essential to keep your system in peak condition. Sign up for an annual maintenance plan to inspect, clean, and tune up your HVAC system, preventing costly breakdowns.
4. Use smart thermostats for temperature control
Understanding your thermostat is crucial. Invest in a programmable or smart thermostat to save energy and maintain your desired temperature settings. Set schedules that match your daily routines and make temperature adjustments when you're away.
Check out these two smart thermostats from Daikin: Daikin One Touch and Daikin One+ Smart Thermostats
5. Monitor energy costs
Keep a close eye on your energy bills. Sudden spikes may indicate an issue with your HVAC system's efficiency. Regular maintenance and energy-saving practices can help reduce your energy costs over time. Some smart thermostats can even give you energy saving tips based on your usage and track it for you!
6. Budget for repairs and maintenance
HVAC systems, like any machinery, can experience wear and tear. Budget for regular maintenance and potential repairs to avoid unexpected financial strain. It's always better to be prepared.
7. Watch for warning signs
Pay attention to any unusual sounds, odors, or irregularities in your HVAC system's performance. These may be warning signs of potential issues. Address problems promptly to prevent costly repairs or replacements down the road.
8. Familiarize yourself with the unit
Get to know your HVAC system. Understand the location of key components, including the indoor and outdoor units, the air handler, and the thermostat. This familiarity will make it easier to troubleshoot minor problems and describe issues to HVAC professionals.
Conclusion
In summary, as a new homeowner, it's essential to grasp the fundamentals of your HVAC system. Prioritize indoor air quality, change filters regularly, invest in maintenance, optimize your thermostat settings, monitor energy costs, budget for repairs, and stay vigilant for warning signs. By being proactive and informed, you'll enjoy a comfortable and efficient home while potentially saving on long-term maintenance and repair costs. Your HVAC system is a vital part of your home, so taking care of it is a smart investment in your new property.
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more.
