Nobody expects you to be an expert on the intricacies of your HVAC system. However, the more you know, the more you can conserve energy, save money, breathe easier, and increase the lifespan of this vital home system. The next time you schedule an appointment with a Dual Coast Holdings technician, ask these six basic questions around HVAC upkeep to ensure you understand your system.
1. How often do I need to have my vents and ducts cleaned?
Don’t depend on your lungs to be your home air filter. Depending on the type of air filtration system in your HVAC unit, consider having ducts inspected, cleaned, and re-sealed every three and five years. This will cut down on dust and allergens in the air, and increase the life of your HVAC unit. If your family suffers from allergies or asthma, you can have it done more often for a cleaner indoor eco-system. Changing your air filter monthly will also help you breathe easier and keep your ducts and vents free from dust and debris.
2. What is causing poor airflow throughout my home?
It’s no fun to have hot or cold spots in your home as a result of poor airflow. Poor airflow is usually due to a poorly designed or leaking duct system. When your system isn’t properly sealed or an air leak goes undetected, precious hot or cold air escapes or passes through the system unevenly. Consider having a Dual Coast Holdings professional perform a comprehensive inspection to re-work or repair your duct system.
We can also install a zone damper if distance from the HVAC unit to the opposite side of the house is an issue. Dampers are placed in your ducts to control the airflow to specific zones or rooms. These dampers are wired to a specific zone on the electrical control panel, which is controlled by a special thermostat. Dampers automatically open and close depending on which thermostat is demanding power.
3. When my HVAC unit comes on the lights flicker. Should I be worried?
This is a red flag for sure, but one Dual Coast Holdings can easily fix. When your outdoor HVAC unit causes your indoor lighting to flicker or strobe, it often means your system is using too much electricity upon start-up. You can avoid this by leaving your HVAC system on and set at a comfortable temperature on your programmable thermostat whether you are home or away.
Another solution is calling Dual Coast Holdings to add a Start-Assist to your HVAC unit. These are also called “Hard Start Kits” or “Compressor Savers.” A Start Assist attaches to the condensing unit of your A/C system. It provides extra voltage to help the compressor start faster and use less energy. Your Dual Coast Holdings technician can advise on the need for a Start-Assist Kit and install one to fit your current HVAC system. Problem solved!
4. I am constantly dusting my furniture. Is this connected to my HVAC system?
Depending on where you live–deserts and rural farm/ranching areas especially–household dust is more than an embarrassing inconvenience, it can be a health menace. Maintaining clean vents and ducts, and keeping air filters clean will cut your household chores in half. Make sure filters are changed at least monthly and ask your Dual Coast Holdings technician for recommendations on brands that might be more effective at preventing dust from getting into your system and thus your home habitat.
The Effects of Dust and Pollen on Health
If family members are complaining of poor sleep, coughing, runny nose, or sneezing, consider the type of air filtration in your HVAC system. Low quality or ill-fitting filters can cause internal damage to your HVAC system and your lungs. Monthly filter changes and having ductwork inspected and cleaned every 3-5 years will keep dust and allergens under control. For a clean house and even cleaner bill of health, consider adding an air purifier to your ventilation system. Dual Coast Holdings can help you find the right purification system for your needs. Just ask! We’re happy to help.
5. Why are my energy bills so high in extreme temperatures?
While it’s common to blame external temperatures for a spike in electricity use, a professional will tell you from experience the weather is not to blame. Most energy spikes are caused by an undetected defect, air leak, or an aging/failing HVAC unit. These can be avoided with regular maintenance and tune-up services where your Dual Coast Holdings HVAC expert can test and inspect your system for problems you may not notice on your own. Save money and protect your family from extreme temperatures. Call Dual Coast Holdings. Our techs will diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs and installations. You don’t have to live with continuously high power bills. Get relief today!
6. How important is surge protection to the life of my HVAC system?
Don’t take a chance with a major investment like your HVAC system. Be proactive with surge protection. A freak electrical surge or lightning strike could cause untold internal damage to your unit. You might install a surge protector and never have to use it. However, surge protection is a smart precaution to avoid expensive repairs to your HVAC system. Your Dual Coast Holdings professional can not only assess your system for the right surge protection, but install and maintain it. Call for an estimate any time.
Knowledge is not only power, it’s profitable! Save money and prevent uncomfortable days without your HVAC system. Understand your system and know the answers to these questions so you’re better equipped if an issue arises.
Remember, your Dual Coast Holdings professional is always available to help you with any problem–even the ones that have not happened yet! Call us to educate yourself and prevent HVAC mishaps today.
For more green savings tips and general information to help you keep your current HVAC system running at optimal levels, contact Dual Coast Holdings and continue to access our blog. You can also follow us on social media. We promise to give you Pro Tips to save you money, energy, and avert an HVAC catastrophe.
