Our central heating and air conditioning systems are an intriguing part of our lives. They determine whether or not our homes are inviting and comforting during the long, cold winter months. While it has a large impact on our daily lives and our homes, there’s a good portion of us out there who are unaware of their maintenance and upkeep requirements. Heating and cooling systems run without much intervention, but they still require a bit of upkeep and maintenance to keep them running at peak efficiency.
When it comes to central air and heating systems, the same air ducts are used to pump both cold and heated air throughout your home. During the cold winter nights, we tend to gravitate towards the heater. On hot summer days, we turn down the thermostat and crank up the air conditioning. These systems are fueled by mainly electricity or gas, some even being solar-powered. Both systems are connected by the air ducts, which should have proper insulation. Inadequate insulation can allow upwards of 60% of the heat to escape, so it’s important to ensure that your air ducts are properly wrapped and insulated.
The air ducts are just another reason why it’s important to keep up with the necessary heating and air conditioning services to keep your system working at peak efficiency. While the level of insulation on your heating ducts is important, it’s not the only or main thing that will help your heating system work at its peak this holiday season.
Making sure your furnace is properly maintenance by an HVAC professional at least once a year will help keep the intricate parts and components in good working order, ensuring that any worn-out parts or pieces are switched out and replaced before causing any problems. There are steps that you can take on your own to help keep your heating system up and running, one of which being changing and cleaning the air filter. Over time, it builds up dirt and clogs itself. Going in once a month or so to make sure the air filter is properly cleaned and ready for the task ahead.
There’s a large portion of our lives that are structured around our central heating and air systems. It governs the comfort level within our homes and can mean the difference between a warm and cozy winter and a chilly, uncomfortable one with increased chances of finding yourself sick throughout most of it.
