Serving Tampa & Surrounding Areas
HVAC (pronounced h-vack or spelled out) stands for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning. These three functions of a forced-air system are closely interrelated; all provide thermal comfort and healthy indoor air quality (IAQ).
The average life expectancy of an HVAC system depends on many factors. These factors include how often the system is used, the make and model, the age, and how often it was serviced. You can expect your HVAC to last about 15 years, while a heat pump can last a few years longer.
It is always a good idea to change your air filter in the fall and spring, just before at the start of the major heating and cooling seasons. Otherwise, check your filter every other month to assess whether it is clean enough to filter the contaminants properly.
Maintenance on your air conditioning system should be performed at least once a year – spring to early summer (before the extreme temperatures arise). This will ensure maximum efficiency and keep repair issues to a minimum.
If you’re A/C or furnace is more than 12 years old, you should consider replacing it with a new, high-efficiency model. A modern HVAC system can save the typical household up to 50 percent on energy costs. While a new furnace and air conditioning unit can help lower utility bills, they can also offer a higher level of comfort throughout your home.
It is essential that your HVAC is the correct size for your home. Heating and cooling equipment that is over-capacity (too big) will not run as frequently or long enough to cool or heat appropriately. HVAC equipment that is under-sized, will also result in loss of comfort during temperature extremes. In both instances, energy efficiency will be extremely poor.
Some quick tips:
- Clean and replace the air filters frequently.
- Your system will work more efficiently when the blower is in the “on” position. The blower ensures constant airflow throughout the home, and allows for better air filtration.
- Install curtains, shades, drapes, or shutters on windows that are exposed to extreme sunlight to keep room temperatures consistent and comfortable.
The indoor air quality (IAQ) of a home can depend on a variety of factors. Pet dander, dust, cleaning solutions, and even cooking can pollute your air, which can build up over time. Particulates trapped in the air can carry viruses or bacteria, and aggravate conditions like asthma and allergies. Home Service Heroes can provide an indoor air analysis and give you personalized results based on what we find.
Obviously, the season becomes a crucial factor for desired temperature settings in the home. In summer, the average temperature setting is 76°-78°, and 69°-71° during the winter. When leaving your house, it is important to avoid drastically altering the temperature setting. Never set your thermostat back more than 5 degrees as this will cause your HVAC to work harder – wasting energy and potentially harming the unit.
