How well do you know your HVAC system? Every Indianapolis homeowner should learn a few essential pieces of information. Doing so helps prepare you for properly maintaining and prolonging your HVAC system. And while we don’t expect you to memorize the serial number or anything overwhelmingly tedious, there are certain aspects you should be familiar with.
The experts at Action Air have detailed 5 important HVAC system facts. Follow our guide below to better maintain your heating and cooling!
1. What Type of HVAC System do you Have?
An HVAC system can come in many different forms. Heating and cooling have countless variations, meaning your system might be a unique combination of units. Therefore, you should identify which types of units comprise your HVAC system. Is your heating a furnace or boiler? Is your cooling a central AC or ductless mini-split? You could also have a heat pump, which acts as both a heating and cooling unit.
Additionally, you must also know what energy source(s) power your HVAC system. Does your HVAC system use gas, electricity, geothermal, or another energy source? These pieces of information are crucial in helping to properly maintain your HVAC system.
2. What is Your HVAC System’s Age?
Although the question may seem a bit personal, it is important you know the exact age of your HVAC system. HVAC systems deteriorate as they age, possibly losing functionality and decreasing energy efficiency. Parts can also become outdated and signal a replacement. By knowing your HVAC system’s age, you’ll be able to better assess issues and maintain your HVAC system.
Finding an HVAC system’s age can vary. A common way to tell is by looking at the first four digits of the serial number on the heater or AC. This can showcase the year and week it was built. For example, if the first four digits are 1450, then the unit may have been manufactured in the 50th week of 2014. However, if the numbers are ambiguous (e.g. 1212) or the serial number is differently structured, then contact Action Air for further assessment.
For more information on an HVAC system’s lifespan, click here.
3. What Type of Filter Does Your HVAC System Use?
HVAC systems work best when they utilize the appropriate filter. There are different types of HVAC filters available, with size being the major difference. The reason for this is filters can vary where they need to be placed. Generally, your HVAC system only requires one filter, but this filter can be located next to the heater, between two components, or even in an attic vent.
It is important to find the exact measurements needed to find the appropriate filter. Failing to do so can result in poor IAQ from an unsuitable filter, or even drive up energy consumption.
4. Is Your HVAC System Energy Efficient?
Good HVAC energy efficiency is a necessity. It helps ensure you’re receiving a fair utility bill with suitable conditioned air. Therefore, you must know your HVAC system’s energy efficiency. One way to tell is by comparing your current utility bill with previous months. An HVAC system makes up about 48% of your home’s energy consumption, so you’ll be able to notice a severe difference in energy consumption.
5. When Was Your HVAC System Last Inspected?
An HVAC system should be inspected by a professional at least once a year. Doing so helps identify issues before they become too severe. This also helps to ensure energy efficiency is adequate. If your HVAC system has not been serviced by a professional for over a year, or you don’t remember the last time it received maintenance, contact Action Air today for our HVAC maintenance services!
By knowing these crucial pieces of information, you can better assess and maintain your HVAC system, further helping to improve your Indianapolis home. When you are ready to speak with an HVAC expert, contact Action Air today! Call us at 317-451-4371 for affordable and quality HVAC inspection services.
