People typically think of an air conditioning systems as something used in the summer only. But, there are many homes that have an integrated heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HV/AC) in one unit. The region of the country in which you live determines what type of heating and air conditioning you likely have. Almost 80% of the northeast, midwest, and western United States has a separate forced heat furnace. While in the southern US only 37% of homes have a separate furnace.
It’s possible because in the south, you may run the heat on overnight and air conditioning during the day. Most have one thermostat that controls both heating and air conditioning, usually a controlling a heat pump.
HV/AC maintenance
Keeping your HV/AC unit in tip top shape is important regardless of the season. Keeping your outside unit clean and debris free is necessary year round. Your unit will work much harder if it’s trying to pull clean air in through clogged coils. This can cause your unit to freeze whether the weather is cold or warm. This will, in turn, cause your utility bills to soar.
Start with an AC repair specialist at the start of the season. They will do a multiple point inspection of your HV/AC unit inside and out to be sure it’s working efficiently. If any problems are found, they can be handled before things get to uncomfortable outside. You don’t want to wait until it’s freezing outside before you have a system failure. It will likely be more difficult to get a service tech to your house quickly at the peak of bad weather. Prevention is the best way to prep for winter or summer.
Improve air quality
Sometimes having your home sealed up for the winter can make your home feels really stuffy. Air circulation will help immensely with making the air feel lighter and less stuffy. Again, this can go back to maintenance. Be sure you keep your HV/AC filters changed monthly; even in the winter. Opening doors to the rooms of your home will also improve air circulation in your home and help balance air flow. This will also use less energy to make your home feel comfortable.
The goal is to make your home as comfortable as possible when the seasons change. The cost of electricity and heating fuel are currently on the rise and so you want to also be as efficient as possible. You may need to consider upgrading your heating and air conditioning system for savings in the long run.