Nothing can be more frustrating than needing repair on the basic systems necessary to keep your home in Big Bear functioning. Whether it’s a clogged toilet or a power outage, life seems to stop until the problem is fixed.
One of the most vital home appliances is your HVAC system, which keeps your family warm during the cold winter months and cool during the stifling heat of summer. Whether your system is one year old or going on its tenth anniversary, chances are you’ll at least occasionally need to call for service. But there are things you can do to keep those calls for help at a minimum. At the very least, when you do need service, your bills will be lower. Here are a few tips to help you keep your Big Bear HVAC Repair costs low.
Replace Air Filters
One of the easiest ways to take care of your heating and air system is to regularly change your air filters. Set a reminder for yourself and make sure you have one on hand to make it as easy as possible once the day arrives. How often you change your air filter depends on your household. If you use a higher-end filter, you may be able get away with only changing them every six months, provided you don’t have pets or household members with allergies. But with multiple pets or inexpensive filters, experts recommend monthly changes to keep your HVAC unit functioning properly.
Keep Your Outdoor Unit Debris-Free
You may not realize that your outdoor unit is covered in dirt and debris, especially during the spring, summer, and early fall months when landscaping work can send grass and other particles flying. Regularly take a look at your outdoor unit and make sure your condenser coils look clean. Unless you’re comfortable cleaning them yourself, this may be a job you want to leave for a professional. Also avoid stacking items like garden hoses and landscaping tools on top of the HVAC unit, since this can interfere with airflow.
Seal and Insulate Your Ducts
A great deal of energy can escape through your home’s ductwork. You may not even realize your house isn’t properly insulated until you call a Big Bear HVAC Contractor out to take a look at it. This is especially true of ductwork located in areas like attics and crawlspaces that aren’t served by the home’s heating and air. Before calling a technician to check your ductwork, though, look for ways you might be restricting airflow by having furniture over vents or keeping vents closed. You can also vacuum each of your registers to remove dust that might be blocking air from getting into your rooms.
Invest in Maintenance
At least once a year, a professional should take a thorough look at your HVAC system. During this annual maintenance, the technician will not only check for issues and repair them, but you’ll also benefit from learning about Ways Regular Big Bear HVAC Maintenance Saves You Money. This small measure can dramatically extend the life of your HVAC system, while also making it operate more efficiently. The cost savings comes in your monthly utility bills, as well as your ability to delay replacing your system, giving you extra money you can put toward other expenses.
With regular HVAC Maintenance, your system can provide years of reliable use. Just a small annual expense will keep your unit functioning throughout Big Bear’s cold winters and warm summers, often lasting as long as 10-20 years.
Special Bonus: More Tips to Help Prevent Expensive HVAC Repairs
Monitor Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat plays a crucial role in regulating the temperature and overall performance of your HVAC system. To prevent costly repairs and optimize energy efficiency, it’s essential to monitor your thermostat settings regularly. Consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat, which allows you to set customized heating and cooling schedules based on your lifestyle and preferences. Programmable thermostats can help reduce energy consumption by adjusting the temperature settings automatically when you’re away from home or asleep, saving you money on your utility bills. Additionally, make sure to replace the batteries in your thermostat as needed to ensure reliable operation and accurate temperature control.
Schedule Professional Inspections
In addition to annual maintenance visits, scheduling periodic professional inspections can help identify potential issues with your HVAC system before they escalate into costly repairs. Consider hiring a qualified HVAC technician to perform thorough inspections of your system at least twice a year, ideally before the start of the heating and cooling seasons. During these inspections, the technician will check for signs of wear and tear, inspect electrical connections, lubricate moving parts, and perform necessary adjustments to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. By addressing minor issues early on, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your HVAC equipment.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Equipment
If your HVAC system is nearing the end of its lifespan or you’re experiencing frequent breakdowns and repairs, consider upgrading to energy-efficient equipment. Modern HVAC systems are designed to deliver superior performance and energy efficiency, helping you save money on your utility bills while reducing your carbon footprint. Look for ENERGY STAR® certified heating and cooling systems, which meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Although upgrading to energy-efficient equipment involves an initial investment, the long-term savings on energy costs and maintenance expenses can outweigh the upfront costs, making it a cost-effective investment in the long run.
Practice Energy-Saving Habits
In addition to regular maintenance and professional inspections, practicing energy-saving habits can help prevent costly HVAC repairs and reduce your overall energy consumption. Simple habits such as keeping doors and windows closed when heating or cooling your home, using ceiling fans to improve air circulation, and adjusting your thermostat settings based on occupancy can all contribute to energy savings and prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system. Additionally, consider investing in home insulation and weather sealing to minimize heat loss and improve energy efficiency. By adopting these energy-saving habits, you can lower your energy bills and minimize the risk of expensive HVAC repairs.
Take Action Today!
Preventing costly HVAC repairs requires proactive maintenance, regular inspections, and energy-saving practices. By following these tips and investing in professional maintenance services, you can keep your HVAC system running smoothly, extend its lifespan, and avoid unexpected breakdowns. Remember to replace air filters regularly, keep your outdoor unit debris-free, seal and insulate your ducts, invest in professional maintenance, monitor thermostat settings, schedule professional inspections, upgrade to energy-efficient equipment, and practice energy-saving habits to ensure the optimal performance and efficiency of your HVAC system. With proper care and maintenance, your HVAC system can provide years of reliable use and comfort throughout the changing seasons in Big Bear, California.
Don’t wait until your HVAC system breaks down—take proactive steps to maintain and optimize its performance today! Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance service with Bear Valley Plumbing and Heating to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently. Contact us now to ensure your home stays comfortable and your energy bills stay low.
