How to Avoid HVAC Breakdowns
Heater breakdowns in the winter and air conditioning malfunctions in the summer aren’t just inconveniences; they can be dangerous in some situations. The good news is that most of the common HVAC breakdowns we see are preventable!
If you’ve ever wondered, “How can I avoid HVAC breakdowns in St. Louis, MO?” here are some tips.
Schedule a seasonal tune-up
The best way to prevent a breakdown is to call an HVAC professional to service your system. Scheduling professional furnace maintenance each fall and AC tune-ups each spring are proven to reduce breakdowns.
During this service, your technician will inspect and clean your unit. If anything appears to be wrong, they’ll replace the failing component before you experience a sudden mid-season breakdown.
Change the filter
When homeowners call and ask us, “Why does my heater keep breaking down in St. Louis, MO?” it’s usually due to neglect. We don’t expect you to tune-up your system yourself. However, homeowners should at least replace their air filters once a month.
When air filters get clogged with dirt and debris, the whole unit can start to break down. Swapping out your filter regularly reduces the chance of unit failure and helps improve energy efficiency.
Open the vents
Closing vents when you’re not in a room might seem like a good way to save money during the winter. Unfortunately, closing those vents is generally a bad idea.
When vents are closed, the air intended to heat that room builds up in the ducts. That excess air puts undue pressure on both the ducts and vital components of your furnace. Ensure all of your vents are open and aren’t blocked by any furniture for optimal airflow.
Dust and vacuum
Another answer to that common question, “Why does my heater keep breaking down in St. Louis, MO?” is that your home isn’t very clean. When excess dust collects around air vents, it makes the vent ineffective—the vent might as well be closed!
To ensure that’s not a problem, make a habit of dusting and vacuuming to eliminate all of that dirt and debris and prevent excessive buildup.
Call when you suspect problems
HVAC systems rarely stop working out of the blue. They’ll often present a few signs that they’re going out before they finally kick the bucket. Loud noises, strange smells and higher energy bills are a few of the leading indications that something’s wrong. Pay attention to how your furnace is acting and call a professional as soon as you think something’s not right.
Replace old and inefficient units
It’s a fact that HVAC units are more prone to breakdowns as they age. If your system seems to fail each season, it’s probably time to cut your losses and replace it.
Although installing a new heater or air conditioner can be expensive, it usually pays for itself in just a few years! Newer units are more energy efficient, so you can slash your monthly heating and cooling costs and enjoy fewer breakdown bills.
Call us for HVAC service and repair
From replacing old units to performing seasonal maintenance, Ashley Brothers Heating and Cooling is the go-to company for all of your heating services. If you have more questions like “How can I avoid HVAC breakdowns in St. Louis, MO?” call us today to learn more or to schedule your yearly tune-up.