Wintertime HVAC strain is responsible for both added wear on your system and increased heating bills. Consider these four simple ways to reduce HVAC strain on your Milton, GA home’s heating system.

1. Replace Your HVAC Filter

One of the most neglected pieces of HVAC system upkeep is replacing air filters regularly enough. For the common 1- and 2-inch filters, you should expect to replace them every 30 to 90 days.

Ideally, plan to check your filter every month so that you get to a clogged filter before it causes strain. Extend the filter’s life and get an efficiency boost by gently vacuuming the intake side when you check it.

2. Utilize Thermostat Programs or a Smart Thermostat

With most standard furnaces, there’s no sense in maintaining the same temperature when you’re away that you do when you’re home. The Department of Energy suggests you can shave up to 10% off your heating bills with thermostat programs. The goal is to reduce the temperature by at least 7 degrees for at least 8 hours per day.

Make sure you adjust the temperature if you head out on vacation as well. A smart thermostat can help with this by giving you remote access.

3. Improve Heating Circulation

The better your system circulates air, the more efficiently it’ll run, and the less strain it’ll experience. Open all of your vents and make sure that each has 6 inches clear above and around each vent.

4. Schedule Heating System Maintenance

Finally, make sure that you get preventive maintenance for your heating system. During this process, a technician cleans, tests and tweaks your system to maintain its performance. This is one of the keys to reducing operational strain year over year and the number of heating repairs needed.

Most ways to reduce your system’s strain over the winter are simple. Call to schedule your heating maintenance with the NATE-certified technicians at E. Smith Heating & Air Conditioning.

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