Guide: Understanding Your HVAC System Components and Keeping Them Running Efficiently

The complexities and multiple components of your HVAC system may seem overwhelming, but understanding them is essential for keeping your home comfortable year-round. Here at Air Comfort Solutions, we’ve put together a quick reference guide that delves deeper into the primary components of your HVAC system… as well as a few tips for maintaining them to ensure they run efficiently. As always, should you ever need professional HVAC service, feel free to contact the ACS OKC team to schedule an appointment!

Here in central Oklahoma, we experience a wide range of weather conditions that can take a toll on our HVAC systems. That’s why it’s important to choose a local HVAC contractor like Air Comfort Solutions Oklahoma City that understands our specific climate and has a vested interest in supporting our community. By choosing a local contractor, you can trust that our team of highly skilled technicians will provide reliable service and quality workmanship to keep your HVAC system running efficiently, saving you money and providing peace of mind.

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Furnace

The furnace is the main component of your heating system, and it’s essential to keep it in good working order to avoid breakdowns and ensure energy efficiency. Have a professional technician inspect your furnace annually, as they can spot problems before they become more significant issues. If you prefer to do some maintenance yourself, you can change the air filters regularly, which can prevent dust from clogging the system and improve indoor air quality. You should also keep the area around the furnace free of debris, such as boxes and tools, to avoid any fire hazards.

Air Conditioner/Heat Pump

Your air conditioner or heat pump keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and it’s important to keep it running efficiently to reduce your energy bills. Schedule annual maintenance with a professional HVAC technician to check the refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and ensure all components are working correctly. You can also keep the outdoor unit clean and free of debris, such as leaves and branches, which can restrict airflow and cause the system to work harder than it needs to. If you notice any strange sounds or odors, it’s best to call a professional for help.

Thermostat

The thermostat is the control center for your heating and air conditioning system, and it’s essential to ensure it’s calibrated correctly to avoid any temperature discrepancies. You can do this yourself by checking the temperature against a separate thermometer in your home. If the temperature is off, consult the manufacturer’s instructions for recalibration, or call a professional for help. To maintain your thermostat, replace the batteries annually and ensure it’s not located near any heat sources or in direct sunlight, as this can affect its readings.

Ductwork

Your ductwork carries the heated or cooled air throughout your home, and it’s important to keep it clean to avoid any air quality issues. You can clean the registers yourself with a vacuum cleaner, but it’s best to have a professional like Air Comfort Solutions inspect and clean the ductwork every few years. They can also spot any leaks or damage that may cause a loss of efficiency.

Air Filters

Air filters are essential for removing contaminants from the air that circulates through your home. Check filters every month and replace them as needed, or more frequently if you have pets or suffer from allergies or asthma. You can usually replace the filters yourself by following the manufacturer’s instructions, but if you’re unsure, professional technicians like the ones at Air Comfort Solutions will gladly come out and replace them and provide detailed instruction. All you have to do is schedule an appointment online!

Ventilation System

Your ventilation system is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality by bringing fresh air into your home and removing stale air. Keep the exhaust fans clean and working correctly, and consider installing a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy recovery ventilator (ERV) to improve air quality further.

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Understanding the primary components of your heating and air conditioning system and keeping them running efficiently is essential for maintaining a comfortable living environment in your home. By regularly maintaining your HVAC system, you can extend its lifespan and avoid costly repairs. If you do notice any issues with your system, however, it’s best to call a professional like Air Comfort Solutions to diagnose and repair the problem. They have the necessary skills and experience to fix any issues safely and effectively. Remember that regular maintenance can prevent the need for costly repairs and keep your HVAC system operating efficiently for years to come.