Allergies and Your HVAC System

If anyone in your household has allergies or respiratory health issues, air quality control is vital. Dirty, unfiltered air can trigger allergies, asthma attacks and breathing problems. Your HVAC system circulates the air in your home. When the air is flowing through a dirty filter or duct, it is no longer pure. Your HVAC system can help or irritate allergies, depending on how it is used and maintained.

Using Your HVAC System to Control Air Quality

Since your HVAC system already circulates the air in your home, it makes sense to use it to clean it. All HVAC systems have a air filter, but that does not mean your air is clean. The type of filter you use can determine what particles are removed for the air. Plus, the filter needs to be changed frequently to be effective. Other HVAC elements that can impact air quality:

  • Moisture control. Does your HVAC use a humidifier or dehumidifier to control moisture? Mold can be detrimental to those with asthma, allergies or respiratory problems, and dry air can impact breathing issues as well. .
  • Ductwork cleaning. When was the last time your air ducts were cleaned? Ducts should be professionally cleaned every 3-5 years.
  • Circulate air consistently. If your HVAC is your only source of air quality control, make sure the air is circulated regularly, even when heating or cooling is not needed. Circulating on “fan only” mode can ensure air stays filtered.
  • Routine maintenance. Make sure your HVAC receives annual maintenance to keep it working correctly and efficiently.

Your HVAC system can help make your home healthier for those with allergies. Keep up with maintenance to manage air quality.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
3870 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Suite 340-129
Duluth, GA 30096
(770) 475-9555

How to Reduce Your HVAC Energy Bills

Many people pay thousands of dollars a year to heat and cool their home, money that could be used for something more tangible. If you are tired of high energy bills due to HVAC use, there are ways to reduce your energy use and your monthly bills. While some may require an initial investment, the return on the investment can be substantial. Here are some energy savers when it comes to lowering your heating and cooling bills.

Program Your Thermostat

If you have a programmable thermostat, use it. If you don’t have a newer model thermostat, make the investment. Programming your thermostat to reduce use when you are sleeping, or the home is empty can save you a large percentage of your energy bill each month while still keeping your home comfortable.

Keep Up with HVAC Maintenance

Making sure your HVAC system is maintained ensures it is working efficiently. Heat pumps, AC units and furnaces all need annual maintenance, which is a small price to pay to keep your system running efficiently.

Upgrade to a New HVAC System

If you have an older HVAC system that is 10, 15 or more years old, you may be paying much more than you should for heating and cooling. Newer systems are made for efficiency. Consider upgrading to an Energy Star rated HVAC system that will pay for itself with a reduction in energy bills.

Need more ideas on how to cut down on your heating and cooling bills? Schedule a tune-up for your HVAC system and have an efficiency analysis performed. Your local HVAC pros can help you find ways to reduce energy use and lower your monthly utility bills.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
3870 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Suite 340-129
Duluth, GA 30096
(770) 475-9555

Maintenance Checklist for Your Heating System

Whether you have a furnace or heat pump, maintaining your system can help it run more efficiently and extend the life of your equipment. Maintenance is key to keeping energy and repair costs low. Don’t wait for a problem to arise before you get your heating system the maintenance it needs. Here is a checklist of maintenance items that should be done throughout the year on your heating system.

  • Check and replace filters as needed. Many heating system filters need to be changed monthly or bi-monthly during the colder seasons. Make sure to check your filter each month and change out as needed. This improves your air quality and energy efficiency.
  • Check and clean vents. Blockages in your vents can waste energy when heating your home. Make sure all vents are delivering warm air and clean them as needed.
  • Program your thermostat. Save money on your heating bill by making sure your thermostat is properly programmed. Lower the heat when no one is home and set the max setting at 68 degrees when you are home.
  • Schedule a tune-up. At least once a year your heating system should be serviced by your HVAC company. Fall is a good time to get your system tuned-up, but if you missed your maintenance, it is better late than never. Get on a routine of servicing your A/C in the spring and your heating system in the fall to keep your HVAC system in good shape all year round.

Routine HVAC maintenance can ensure your heating system is ready to tackle the winter months. Keep up with filter and vent checkups every month to ensure the best efficiency for your heating system all winter long.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
3870 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Suite 340-129
Duluth, GA 30096
(770) 475-9555