Your HVAC system needs your help in order to function at its best. Many homeowners understandably don’t know where to begin. Here are answers to common HVAC questions.
What Kind of Filter Should I Buy?
The filter has two jobs. It needs to prevent particles from getting into your HVAC system and harming the components, and it should improve indoor air quality. For these reasons, you should choose high-quality filters.Most filter ratings are based on MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value), a scale that indicates how well the filter can trap particles of various sizes. Higher MERV numbers mean that the filter captures more particles.
However, this doesn’t mean you should reach for the highest number. Most residential systems can operate efficiently with filters rated up to MERV 13. Filters in the higher range than that can restrict airflow to the system, which reduces efficiency and can cause mechanical failure. It is best to speak with your HVAC contractor to determine the filter most compatible with your system. Until then, use filters within the MERV 7 to 13 ranges.
Do My Home’s Ducts Need to Be Cleaned?
If you are having air quality problems or your ducts haven't been cleaned in years, then you should schedule duct cleaning. Clean ducts improve energy-efficiency, increase the life of the HVAC system and improve air quality.
Can I Increase the Energy Efficiency of My HVAC System?
Yes. Here is a list of what you can do:
Check the filters monthly.
Use a programmable thermostat so that you can easily adjust temperature for times when you are away from home.
Ensure your home has enough insulation.
Seal air leaks around doors, windows and other common sources of leakage.
When is the Best Time to Schedule Preventive Maintenance?
Schedule a maintenance visit in fall or early spring, before winter or summer are in full swing. For additional peace of mind, consider scheduling two a year – one in fall and another in spring.
For more information about your home’s HVAC system, please contact us at Air Assurance.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “bahri-altay/Shutterstock”