The E.F. Martin Mechanical Contractors team here in Columbia, SC knows how confusing and complex your heating and air conditioning system can be. We also know the crucial role your HVAC system plays in keeping your home cool during the summer and warm in the winter. Most homeowners don’t think about their HVAC system at all until problems arise however, you don’t have to wait until your HVAC system malfunctions to learn a little bit about your system. Below, we will look at some of the top questions people frequently ask the team here at E.F. Martin.
How often should I have my system serviced?
Most HVAC experts recommend that you have a technician inspect and maintain your heating and cooling system once before each extreme weather change (think before summer and before winter). An inspection may not be as important if you just had your HVAC system replaced, but it is always a good idea. For older furnaces and air conditioners, regular maintenance checks are a must to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
How often should I replace my air filter?
The answer can vary depending on your lifestyle and your home environment, but inspecting your air filter once a month is a good rule of thumb to go by. If your filter is darkened, dirty, or clogged, you know it’s time to change it. Over time, you’ll get a feel for how often your air filter needs to be changed.
What size furnace and AC unit should I get?
Most Columbia, SC homeowners think that the bigger their HVAC equipment, the better. This however is not necessarily the case. If you buy a furnace that’s too big for your home, it will get your home up to the desired temperature quickly then shut off. That means it will be frequently turning on and off which increases your energy usage and adds more wear and tear to your furnace. It’s important to have your home sized for any HVAC equipment to keep your energy bills at bay and keep your comfort high. If you’re not sure what size is best for your Columbia, SC home, the E.F. Martin team is here to help!
How long will my furnace and AC unit last?
This will also depend on how well you care for your HVAC equipment and the amount of use it gets but typically, a well-maintained furnace can last you around 15-20 years. Central air conditioners can last you around 10-15 years when properly cared for and maintained. Many things factor into the longevity of your HVAC equipment like the size, maintenance, your home environment, etc.
How can I lower my heating and cooling bills?
Finally, there are many ways to decrease your household energy usage. Here are a few things you can do to decrease your energy usage and lower your utility bills:
- Upgrade to a smart thermostat to cut down on unnecessary heating and cooling
- Have your HVAC equipment regularly maintained and serviced
- Seal up your home by fixing any air leaks and installing energy-efficient windows
- Upgrade your furnace and your air conditioning equipment to high-efficiency models
When you cut back on your energy usage, you are lowering your utility bills and extending the life of your HVAC equipment.
Have more questions about your Columbia, SC home heating and air conditioning equipment? No problem, the team here at E.F. Martin Mechanical Contractors is here to help you! Call us today to have any of your HVAC questions answered or to schedule your next professional heating and cooling service.
