GUIDE TO LOW MAINTENANCE HVAC SYSTEMS

Wouldn’t it be nice if your HVAC system was just a ‘set it and forget it’ kind of thing? Unfortunately, there aren’t any HVAC systems on the market that run perfectly on their own all the time. But when purchasing a low maintenance HVAC system, there are some factors that make it easier on you. This guide will help you buy a system that’s as close to self-operating as you can get.

Components of a Low Maintenance HVAC

Certain parts of your HVAC system require a bit more maintenance than others. Do your research beforehand, and you can choose a model that won’t need quite as much help from you. These components are part of a low maintenance HVAC system that you won’t have to worry about.

PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT

We’ve talked about the benefits of a programmable thermostat before. A ‘smart’ thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature of your home according to a preset schedule. No more getting out of bed because you forgot to change the temperature! Many households have programmable thermostats these days, but for minimum maintenance, buy a smart thermostat that connects to your phone via an app. That way, if you want to veer off the program, you can do it from your bed, your car, or anywhere else.

THICK, EFFICIENT FILTERS

One of the primary HVAC maintenance tasks a homeowner is responsible for is changing the air filter. There are many air filter types on the market. Some need to be changed more frequently than others. The thicker an air filter is, the longer it lasts. A 1″ air filter needs to be changed every one to three months, while a 5″ or 6″ air filter can last up to nine months. High-efficiency filters also need less frequent replacement. Your HVAC system can only use filters of a certain size, so check the manual before you buy an HVAC system to see if it can handle thicker, high-efficiency filters.

Do you want washable or disposable filters? A washable filter can be reused, but, as the name implies, you’re responsible for washing it. That’s not exactly low maintenance. Disposable filters are pricier in the long run, but you can just toss the old one and put in the new at the scheduled time.

ZONED HEATING

Without zoned heating, you’re forced to close dampers and vents manually. If you want to be efficient and save on your bills, you’re going to walk from room to room every night, closing all of the ducts throughout the downstairs. A zone heating system makes it easy by automatically turning off the heat or air to rooms that aren’t in use. Paired with a programmable thermostat, you’ll never have to touch the ducts or the thermostat again. That’s the definition of a low maintenance HVAC system!

Other Techniques

After you’ve purchased the appropriate type of low maintenance HVAC and thermostat, there are two additional things you can do to lessen the amount of time you spend taking care of your system.

ADD FENCING

The condenser coil on your outdoor unit collects dirt and debris over time. This is especially true if it’s surrounded by foliage. If you build a fence around your outdoor HVAC unit, leaves and dust are less likely to clog up the coils. You’ll need to clean it less frequently. Just make sure you leave plenty of room between the fence and the outdoor unit, so you can access it when necessary and there’s space for it to vent.

If you can’t add a fence, at least trim back the foliage so there aren’t any plants within a five foot radius of the outdoor unit. Pollen and other detritus will be less likely to blow into the coils. Clean up any lawn mower clippings right away. This will give you more time between washings.

BUY A MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

The most low maintenance HVAC system is the one you don’t have to touch at all. If you never want to think about your HVAC system again, an annual maintenance agreement is the way to go. Every HVAC company offers something a little bit different, so look into the plan to make sure it’s fully comprehensive. You don’t want to pay someone just to change your air filters!

At Newcomb and Company, our maintenance agreements provide you with complete peace of mind. We service your HVAC system from top to bottom twice a year. And maintenance members get additional benefits like discounts and priority service. For the most low maintenance HVAC available, call us today!