5 Mistakes To Avoid With Your HVAC System

This is a sponsored post...

(Yesteryear: Before air conditioning) 

Before the internet, before air conditioning, there were other, more inferior ways to stay cool in hot weather. As seen in the vintage photos I found.

In order to create a comfortable living space, you need to have a properly working HVAC system (HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). It isn't difficult to understand why this is so important, especially when the temperatures dip in the winter or soar in the summer. It isn't enough, though, to just get a HVAC system set up. There are many aspects that will affect how well it works. So, it is a good idea to avoid common mistakes that can compromise your system's ability to create a comfortable home.

Mistake #1: Letting the Thermostat Get Hot

The thermostat is what regulates the temperature in your home. It really needs to be placed in a central area where it is going to be able to monitor the average temperature of the space. You should never hang anything on the thermostat, let direct sunshine on it, or put it close to a heat generating source. These things will heat it up, tricking the system into believing your home is warmer than it is. In the winter, this means it won't kick on to keep you warm, and in the summer, you'll end up hotter than you want to be.

Mistake #2: Not Keeping Return Vents Clear

An important part of your HVAC system is the air return vent. This vent allows for air flow that keeps the system operating properly. It also helps the system to maintain consistent temperatures. They should never be covered or have anything in front of them that will prevent proper air flow. Your system will run most efficiently if they are kept clean and open.

Mistake #3: Focusing Too Much on Cost

While you do have to pay attention to what you can afford and not overspend on a HVAC system, you should avoid trying to buy the cheapest available. This is also true when it comes to hiring heating and air conditioning professionals. The old cliché is very true – you really do get what you pay for. Instead of looking at the cheapest options, figure out what is the most comfortable in your budget and use that as your guide. The chances are you will get a much better system and service this way.

Mistake #4: Choosing the Wrong Temperature Setting

Some people think that setting their thermostat at 72 degrees all year round is the most energy efficient option and the best option for keeping their system in good condition. This is actually not true. When seasonally highs and lows occur, this can stress your system. You do need to adjust the temperature throughout the year as is needed so your system isn't ever working too hard.

Mistake #5: Not Getting Annual Service

This is probably the biggest mistake simply because it is the most common. Many people think that they don't need their HVAC system serviced annually as long as it is running fine. They only call for service when something goes wrong. 

However, this is a bad move. When something goes wrong, the problem has already gotten too big. It is much better to do preventative maintenance to catch issues before they get to the point of needing major repairs. 

Have someone come once a year to service your system and make sure there are no problems starting.

Your HVAC system is very important. That is why you really need to be smart when it comes to operating and caring for it. By avoiding these five mistakes, you are more likely to get the best out of your system.