8 Frequently Asked Heating And AC Repair Questions | New Orleans, LA
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New Orleans, LA, experiences a mixed climate. With average lows of 44°F in the winter and average highs of 93°F in the summer, effective HVAC systems are essential for residents of New Orleans.
Your HVAC system is what keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, as well as maintains your air quality. So, not only is your system important for comfort during extreme weather, ensuring your heating and air conditioning work effectively all year round is also beneficial to your health.
If you’re wanting to learn more about how your system works, how to ensure it remains efficient, and how to save on costs, here are eight of the most frequently asked heating and C repair questions.
How Can I Make My HVAC System More Efficient?
The most commonly asked heating and AC repair questions tend to center around efficiency. This is because, the more efficient your HVAC system is, the less money it costs.
The most common way to improve your system’s efficiency is cleaning or replacing its air filters. This is because, dirty air filters result in a reduction of airflow through your system, meaning the machine has to work extra hard to achieve the same result.
Other ways you can improve the efficiency of your HVAC system include:
- Installing a smart thermostat
- Insulating your property
- Installing duct sealing
- Perform regular maintenance
- Install a new system if necessary
How Often Should I Clean or Replace the Air Filters In My Unit?
As previously mentioned, ensuring your air filters are clean and free of obstructions is a simple and common way to improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. To do so, turn off the air conditioning or heating, then locate and open the unit’s services panel. Inside, you will find the filter, which you can remove then clean with running water. Finally, leave the filter to dry before re-inserting it.
You should clean your air filters monthly during high-use seasons (summer and winter), and every other month during the spring and fall. However, heating and AC repair companies recommend you replace your filters every two to three months.
How Often Should My HVAC System Be Serviced?
Usually, heating and AC repair contractors recommend you service your HVAC unit twice per year. However, often this advice is overlooked. Many people avoid seeking regular servicing and maintenance because they think it will save them money, but in the long run, this can actually cost you far more.
It might seem like your HVAC system is working fine, but problems might be starting to form. These problems may go unnoticed until they are catastrophic and require costly and extensive repair or even full unit replacement. Keep on top of the health of your HVAC system and prevent the escalation of faults.
Why Is My HVAC System Making Strange Noises?
Unfortunately, if your HVAC system is making a strange noise, it’s usually because of a problem. But, try not to be too worried as, if you act quickly, reliable heating and AC company can easily solve the problem.
Some common reasons for hearing noises from your HVAC system include:
- Dirty air filters
- Loose ducts inside the unit
- Cracker heat exchanger
- Fan belt damage
- Leaks
When you hear any unsettling noises coming from your unit, don’t hesitate to call a local heating and AC repair company in New Orleans, LA.
How Do I Extend the Life of my HVAC System?
When you invest in a high-quality HVAC system, it’s understandable that you want it to run for as long as possible. Here are some tips for extending the life of your HVAC unit:
- Reducing usage where possible
- Changing and cleaning air filters regularly
- Regular maintenance and servicing
- Install a smart thermostat
How Important Is Indoor Air Quality?
What many people don’t realize is how important their indoor air quality actually is. The chemicals and pollutants that reside in the air aren’t just outside, they come indoors too, and they can wreak havoc on your respiratory health. This issue is particularly pivotal for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma.
The air conditioning system in your HVAC unit circulates and filters the air that you breathe inside your home. In doing so, not only does the system help maintain a steady temperature, but it also removes pollutants and allergens from your air.
To learn more about indoor air quality, contact a heating and AC repair company like bluefrog Home Services of New Orleans.
Can I Save on Bills By Adjusting My Thermostat?
Typically, your heating and hot water make up 55% of your overall energy bill, that’s why just a few adjustments to your thermostat can save a considerable amount of money.
If you adjust your thermostat just a few degrees up in the summer or down during the winter, you could drastically reduce the collective run time of your HVAC system as well as your energy bills.
Or, if you’d rather take the hassle out of adjusting your thermostat manually, why not consider calling dependable heating and AC repair company to discuss your smart thermostat options?
How Do I Know When It’s Time to Replace My HVAC System?
Knowing exactly when it’s time to replace your HVAC system is difficult because there is no set answer to the question. How often you use your heating and air conditioning, the size of your home, the type of HVAC system you have, and the local climate all impact how long your unit will last.
However, some warning signs that it might be time to call a heating and AC repair company to discuss your replacement options include:
- Increasing energy bills
- Strange noises
- Uneven temperatures
- Regular high-cost repairs
Call a Heating and AC Repair Company Today
If you’re concerned about the health of your HVAC system or would like to discuss your smart thermostat options, call a reliable heating and AC repair firm like bluefrog Home Services of New Orleans today.
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