Winter can be tough here in Michigan, and the last thing you want to worry about is your HVAC system. You don’t want to be in a home with a broken heater during a snowstorm. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to make your HVAC system ready for the changing seasons.
Here at Valley City Mechanical, we are experts when it comes to all things heating and air. Here are some steps you can take to make sure your AC system is ready for the Winter.
When Was Your Last HVAC Tune-Up?
The most important thing you can do to get the most out of your HVAC system is to schedule regular tune-ups. Tune-ups allow HVAC professionals to make sure your air conditioner and heater are performing at optimal levels. HVAC technicians can also catch small problems early so they don’t evolve into bigger ones. What can start as a loose part or faulty wire can quickly become a much bigger and more costly issue.
It’s especially important you schedule a tune-up at the beginning of spring and fall. These seasons bring drastic weather changes, and you want to make sure your HVAC system is going to be ready for those changes. If you want to make sure your AC system is ready for the fall, schedule a tune-up.
Have You Checked Your Air Filters?
Having clean air filters is not only important to your home’s indoor air quality, but it’s also important to your AC system. Over time, your air filters are going to build up a lot of dust and dirt, making them far less efficient. You can expect your home’s air quality to drop since more dust is going to escape into your home’s air.
This also means your air conditioner is going to work less efficiently. Because your air filters are full of dust, your AC system is going to have to work much harder to move air through those filters, using more electricity.
Thankfully, air filters are easy to replace. Find where they are located in your home and examine their size. Then you can replace them with some new ones from a hardware store.
Are Your Air Vents and Ducts Clean?
Similar to air filters, having clean air vents and ducts is important to your AC system and your home’s air quality. Over time, your air vents and ducts are going to build up a lot of dust and dirt. If they aren’t cleaned regularly, that dust is going to be blown into your home, lowering your indoor air quality.
While cleaning the outside of your air vents is a simple DIY, you’ll want to call a professional to clean your air ducts. Because of the air duct’s length and small size, it can be nearly impossible to clean them without proper training. HVAC technicians are equipped with the right tools and the right knowledge to clean them efficiently and safely.
Have You Considered an Upgrade?
We all know how cold the winters can be here in Michigan. If you find the winters especially harsh, even in the comfort of your home, you may need to upgrade your HVAC system with some new tools. Here are a couple of options.
Smart Thermometers
If you want to make sure your home is nice and toasty before you get back from work, then consider upgrading your thermometer with a smart thermometer. These devices use an app to let you adjust the temperature of your home while you are away. In the long run, you are going to save money since you’ll be able to make sure your heater is running when it isn’t necessary.
Heat Pump
If you find that your heater is simply not cutting it, then a heat pump is the perfect solution. Heat pumps are an eco-friendly and energy-efficient way to heat and cool your home. Because of their design, you can also expect to get to work fast and efficiently.
If you are ready to have a heat pump installed or schedule an AC tune-up, then contact Valley City Mechanical today. Whether you need a heater repaired, help with your indoor air quality, or a new water heater, we are ready to help you with all of your HVAC needs.
If you’re located in Byron Center or Kent County, Michigan, contact us today!