First it was the extreme summer heat. Now it is the cold winter blast blowing through Texas. It just feels like Texas residents can’t catch a break from this ugly weather but if you have lived in Texas for any length of time, you have come to expect this every year.
At this time of the year, most Texans just reach for their thermostats and rightly expect their AC or HVAC systems to work as intended but sometimes they simply do not.
“That can be a very unsettling feeling,” says Brenda Ashaka, senior manager with Alpha 4 Real AC Repair and Heating Service in Katy, TX. “When you turn on your AC or heater, you rightfully expect it to work but sometimes it may not. There are reasons that may be so,” she said.
One of these reasons could be excessive stress on your system.
Reducing stress on your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) unit is essential for maintaining the efficiency and prolonging its lifespan.
So how do you lower the level of stress your HVAC system feels and it tries to warm or cool down your home? Here are some strategies to consider.
Regular Maintenance
Schedule routine maintenance for your HVAC system with a trained and experienced AC repair company. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting components for wear and tear. A well-maintained system operates more efficiently and experiences less stress. Most local AC repair companies offer an annual maintenance agreement which allows them to regularly come out and maintain your system on schedule. Consider an annual maintenance agreement with your local AC repair company today. It will save you some money and a lot of headache.
Proper Insulation
In the wall of your home there are insulation materials designed to help you stay warm during cold winter days and cool during the summer. Overtime these insulations may lose their effectiveness and may need to be replaced so it is important to ensure that your home or building is well-insulated. Proper insulation helps maintain a stable indoor temperature, reducing the workload on the HVAC system. This is particularly important for both heating and cooling efficiency.
Seal Air Leaks
When you look outside with your doors or windows closed do you see light coming in through? If so, you could be losing valuable heat or cool air and will need to reseal your doors and windows. Seal any gaps or leaks in doors, windows, and ductwork. This prevents the escape of conditioned air, making the HVAC system work less to maintain the desired temperature.
Programmable Thermostats
If you are still using old style thermostat in your home, it is time for an upgrade. Install a programmable thermostat to optimize temperature control. This allows you to set different temperatures for various times of the day, reducing the workload during periods when heating or cooling isn’t necessary.
Use Ceiling Fans
Employ ceiling fans to circulate air effectively. This helps distribute conditioned air more evenly, allowing for better temperature control and potentially reducing the need for constant HVAC operation.
Shade and Ventilation
Use shades or blinds to block out direct sunlight during hot periods. Additionally, promote natural ventilation by opening windows and doors when the outdoor climate allows, reducing the reliance on the HVAC system.
Manage Heat-Producing Appliances
Be mindful of heat-generating appliances such as ovens, stoves, and dryers. Use them during cooler parts of the day or evenings to avoid additional strain on the HVAC system.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Equipment
Consider upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC equipment. Newer models often have advanced features that reduce energy consumption, resulting in less stress on the system.
Limit Zoning
If applicable, avoid unnecessary zoning. Overly complex zoning setups can lead to increased stress on the HVAC system. Simplify the zoning configuration to match the actual needs of different areas in your space.
Professional AC Repair Assessment
Periodically, have a professional HVAC technician assess the system. They can identify and address potential issues before they escalate, ensuring the system operates at its best.
Implementing these steps will not only reduce stress on your HVAC units but also contribute to energy savings and a more sustainable and cost-effective operation. Trained and experienced AC repair technicians with Alpha 4 Real AC Repair and Heating Service are available 24 hours to meet your needs. At Alpha 4 Real AC repair and heating Service, we offer 24-hour emergency AC repair and service. Call us today at 281-347-7325 or complete this short AC repair request form and we will be on our way to your home today.
