HVAC systems are designed to last. Most HVAC units have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Some may even last 25 years with proper care and regular maintenance by licensed HVAC technicians. However, many HVAC systems don’t get the chance to last as long as they’re supposed to, mainly because of common HVAC mistakes homeowners typically make. With homeowners committing the following slipups again and again, HVAC systems often end up with a shortened lifespan and a dip in their performance and efficiency.
Ignoring Air Filters
You don’t have to be an HVAC technician to check the air filter and change it at least once a month.
Still, many homeowners forget to perform this simple HVAC maintenance task for one reason or another. Some downright ignore it.
HVAC air filters play a crucial role in keeping the air inside your home clean as it traps dust, dirt, debris, and various contaminants, which will accumulate over time and affect airflow.
When all that air filter dirt causes poor airflow, your HVAC unit will be forced to work harder, which means it will eventually take a dive when it comes to efficiency and performance.
If you want your HVAC unit to last longer, don’t make a habit of not changing filters.
Messing With The Thermostat Too Much
Far too many homeowners fiddle with their thermostats all the time.
While it’s understandable that the comfort levels of individual members of a household may vary, it’s unacceptable if every single one of them adjusts the thermostat settings constantly.
Temperatures need to be stable. A continuous tug-of-war over the thermostat settings will only affect your HVAC system’s overall efficiency and performance.
To avoid the endless tinkering with the temperature, you may need to install a smart thermostat, which you can program to automatically adjust the temperature depending on who is home.
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Crowded Outside Unit
Your AC’s compressor unit is located somewhere outside your home because it needs enough open space to vent heat.
However, some homeowners place plants far too close to the outside unit or just let debris accumulate around it.
When plant life and debris are crowding your outside unit, airflow will be restricted, making it harder to disperse heat. It will also subsequently drive operating costs up and shorten your unit’s life.
If you had to do some landscaping near the unit, make sure you place the plants at least three to five feet away to give it enough space to vent heat effectively.
You would also do well to check the outside unit regularly to ensure that there are no obstructions near or around it.
Fail to do both, and you’ll be facing HVAC issues sooner than you expected.
Neglecting HVAC Maintenance
HVAC systems are machines, and machines need routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.
Many homeowners skip this step, though, especially if their HVAC unit appears to be working well. They don’t realize that without routine maintenance, it would only be a matter of time before it starts acting up.
If you have your HVAC system serviced professionally, you can keep it running smoothly.
When its condenser coils are clean, its electrical parts inspected and tightened, and its blower belt and motor thoroughly checked, your
HVAC system will be less likely to break down. Maintenance will also foster optimal efficiency and extend your HVAC’s lifespan.
Believing Misconceptions About Female HVAC Technicians
The HVAC industry may be a male-dominated field, but women are now starting to make an impact, especially with the ongoing shortage of people with HVAC skills.
However, some homeowners tend to believe certain misconceptions about female HVAC technicians and consciously avoid getting their services in the process.
The truth is, the women of HVAC are just as skilled as the men who dominate the industry.
Female HVAC technicians go through similar training, have excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, and have more than enough knowledge about HVAC systems to provide sensible advice about the best HVAC systems to go for and which AC and furnace brands to avoid.
If your HVAC system needs repair or a tune-up, give hiring female HVAC professionals a try to see their capabilities for yourself.
HVAC systems need some TLC. Give it to them by avoiding the above HVAC mistakes, and you’ll have heating and cooling systems that will serve you well for years to come.
About the author
Sara Olsen is the Content Marketing Manager of Emergency Air, Arizona’s premier HVAC repair and service company with NATE-certified technicians and the best HVAC service in the quickest time. When not writing articles, she makes the most of her time with her family and gives back to the community.
