No matter the type of heating system you’re using, furnace or heat pump, the equipment will need regular care to run efficiently and reliably. Maintenance is also important for keeping warranties valid. With regular upkeep, your heater is much more likely to last longer and perform better.
Improve Airflow With Regular Filter Changes
The same as your air conditioner, your heating system has at least one air filter that serves the purpose of trapping dust, pet hair and other airborne particles before they can enter the blower and circulate throughout the home. Your setup determines how many air filters you need to change or clean. For example, if you’re using a ductless mini-split heat pump, each indoor air handler will have its own air filter. If you’re using a regular ducted furnace, it’ll most likely only have one air filter unless you’re heating a large home with multiple return air vents.
Here are the basic guidelines for changing/cleaning the air filters:
- Gas or electric furnace: Change the air filter once every 30 to 90 days.
- Ducted heat pump: Replace the air filter every one to three months.
- Ductless mini-split: Clean or wash the air filter every two to four weeks and replace it every five to 10 years.
Seal Air Leaks Around Doors and Windows
Your heating system will never be able to reach its full energy efficiency potential if your home is riddled with air leaks around windows and doors. All of the warm air will escape through the gaps and cracks, making the heater run longer cycles to keep the home comfortable. This not only puts immense wear and tear on the equipment but also raises your monthly heating bills. Fortunately, this is a relatively simple problem that you can easily fix by weatherstripping or caulking the gaps.
Check the Thermostat for Temperature Accuracy
If your thermostat isn’t taking accurate temperature readings, the heater won’t cycle like it should. It may turn on when it doesn’t need to or vice versa. The result is a home that stays uncomfortable and a system that experiences unnecessary strain. To make sure this doesn’t happen, you should check the thermostat’s temperature accuracy every 30 days. Just raise the temperature a few degrees, wait about 10 minutes and then use a hand-held thermometer to compare the room temperature with the thermostat’s display. If the two readings are within one to two degrees of one another, you have a thermostat that is working correctly. However, if you notice the readings on both devices are more than two degrees apart, this means you have a temperature accuracy problem. You may need to recalibrate the thermostat or install a new device.
In addition to the tips mentioned above, every heating system needs annual maintenance. Heat pumps often benefit from two tune-ups a year when used year-round. During the maintenance visit, a skilled HVAC technician can answer any questions you have about getting better heating performance and lowering your energy costs. When you need heating repair services in Monroe, LA, contact Gordon AC & Plumbing.
