HVAC 101: Understanding the Basics of Heating and Cooling Systems
You’ve been living in your Glendale home for a few years now and have started to notice your HVAC system isn’t running as efficiently as it used to. Maybe the air coming out of the vents isn’t as cool in the summer or as warm in the winter. Or perhaps your energy bills have been creeping up and you suspect your aging furnace or AC unit could be the culprit. If any of this sounds familiar, it’s probably time for a quick primer on Glendale HVAC systems so you know what you’re dealing with and how to keep your home comfortable and costs under control. In this article, we’ll walk you through the basics of how heating and cooling systems work, the different types of HVAC units available for homes, how to properly maintain your equipment, and when it makes sense to call in the pros for repairs or replacement. By the end, you’ll feel equipped with the knowledge to make the best decisions for your home’s needs and budget. Stay cool!
HVAC Maintenance Tips for Glendale Homeowners
So you just bought a house in Glendale and want to make sure you understand how your HVAC system works? Smart thinking. Your HVAC includes your furnace, air conditioner, thermostat, ductwork, and other components that control the temperature and air quality in your home.
HVAC 101: The Basics
The typical HVAC system has a few main parts:
– A furnace heats your home by burning natural gas, propane or oil and blowing the warm air through your ductwork and vents.
– An air conditioner cools your home using a condenser outside and an evaporator coil inside your furnace. It circulates cool air through the same ductwork and vents.
– A thermostat acts as the “brain” of the system, letting you set your desired temperature. It tells the furnace or A/C to turn on or off based on the actual room temperature.
– Ductwork and vents distribute the heated or cooled air throughout your home.
To keep your HVAC system running efficiently for years to come:
• Have it serviced annually by an HVAC technician. They can inspect, clean and repair or replace parts as needed.
• Replace your furnace filter regularly – at least every 3 months. A clogged filter reduces airflow and efficiency.
• Program your thermostat to maximize comfort and energy savings. Turn the temperature down in winter or up in summer when you’re away from home.
• Clear the area around outdoor units of debris and keep vents unblocked.
Does this help explain the basics of your home’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning? Let me know if you have any other questions!
When to Call a Professional: HVAC Repair and Replacement in Glendale
To keep your HVAC system running efficiently in Glendale’s hot climate, regular maintenance is key. As a homeowner, there are a few things you can do yourself to optimize performance and save energy.
Check and Change Filters
The single most important thing you can do is replace your air filters once a month or every 3 months for high-efficiency filters. Clogged, dirty filters reduce airflow and force your system to work harder, wasting energy.
Clear Debris
Remove any leaves, dirt or debris around the outdoor condenser unit. Buildup prevents proper airflow and can damage the unit over time. It only takes a few minutes to grab a hose or leaf blower and clear the area.
Schedule Professional Tune-Ups
Have an HVAC technician do biannual tune-ups and cleaning. They can spot any issues early on and perform maintenance you can’t do yourself like tightening connections, lubricating parts and cleaning coils. Tune-ups also improve efficiency by up to 30% which lowers energy usage and utility bills.
Adjust the Thermostat
Bump up the temperature a few degrees in summer and lower it by a few degrees in winter when you’re away or sleeping. Programmable thermostats can automate temperature changes to maximize comfort when you’re home and savings when you’re not.
With some simple DIY maintenance and professional tune-ups, your HVAC system will run better and last longer. And by optimizing settings and making your home more energy efficient, you’ll enjoy lower utility bills all year round.
