What is an HVAC System?
A Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning system or ‘HVAC’ is a specific system designed to hold the responsibility of heating and cooling a space. HVAC systems are designed to allow moisture to escape from the room.
Expelling this moisture prevents an unwanted build-up of harmful toxins, such as mould, which can be extremely harmful to humans. HVAC systems are often referred to as ‘air conditioning’; while they are responsible for controlling a hot room via an air conditioning function, they are also capable of heating or humidifying a room too.
How Long Do HVAC Systems Last?
First and foremost, the lifespan of any system is subject to its treatment. There is no definitive answer as to how long each system will last, but with proper care and maintenance, HVAC systems are expected to live anywhere between 12-15 years.
Neglected systems can stop working well before their end-of-life expectancy, creating a costly ordeal for an owner. Replacing an entire system is understandably fairly costly compared to the cost of regular inspections, but ensuring all checks and repairs are carried out in a timely fashion can ensure this is less likely to happen.
Top Tips For Prolonging Your HVAC System’s Lifespan
We’ve put together our three top tips for caring for your HVAC system and how to make the most out of its performance.
1. Regular Check-ups
We cannot stress enough the importance of regular HVAC maintenance and inspections. Booking your regular check-up can make all the difference to the lifespan of your system and can also identify any faults or damages that may cause harm to other parts.
2. Change or Clean your Filters
HVAC system filters should be cleaned every one to three months to maximise efficiency and ensure you get the cleanest, safest ventilation possible for your home or commercial space. A bowl full of one part vinegar to one part warm water often does the trick and keeps your filter fit for purpose.
3. Ensure Plenty of Ventilation
HVAC systems need enough space to perform at their optimal level. You can expect a standard HVAC system to require at least two feet of space around it in order to perform to the best of its ability.
Choosing the Right Time to Replace Your Old HVAC System
Oftentimes, knowing when to replace your HVAC system is just as important as ensuring it has regular check-ups. If your HVAC system is aged or even faulty, a replacement is most likely necessary.
The tell-tale signs of an impending replacement include the need for frequent repairs and unwanted noise when the system is operating. Among these are also experiencing uneven room temperatures and higher utility bills than usual.
If your home or commercial space has fallen victim to any of the above, it’s worth calling a professional to survey the system and quote for a new installation.
Choosing the Right HVAC System for your Home
If you are considering installing an up-to-date HVAC system to streamline your home, you should first determine the size and climate of your space before deciding which system is best for you. This also includes determining whether or not the energy efficiency you would benefit from by having an HVAC system installed outweighs the initial cost of installation.
Think about how much energy will be used compared to how often it will be used in the desired space. If an HVAC system will be used daily and put money back in your pocket via its efficiency, having one installed is a no-brainer.
HVAC System Installation and Maintenance from the Professionals at AMS.
At Accurate Mechanical Services, we believe that the installation and on-going maintenance of your ventilation systems should be professional and slick. We are highly experienced in carrying out domestic and commercial maintenance on heating and cooling systems, water treatment, and mechanical contracting. Get in touch today!