122 N 2nd St, Rockford, IL 61107 
Did you know that the average lifespan of an HVAC system is 10-20 years? However, how long your system lasts largely depends on how often you use it and how well you maintain it year after year.
If you want to get the most out of your HVAC system, there are steps you can take to stay proactive. In this blog, we’re covering four ways you can help your HVAC system last as long as possible.
Reduce unnecessary strain on your HVAC system
Overworking your HVAC unit can add unnecessary wear and tear, leading to early breakdowns and costly repairs. When your home struggles to stay comfortable, your HVAC has to work harder to compensate.
For example, if you drastically lower your thermostat in the summer or raise it significantly in the winter, your heating and cooling system must work longer to meet your desired temperature.
Additionally, your HVAC system has to work harder to cool or heat your home if you have poor ventilation, air leaks, or inadequate insulation. When your heated or conditioned air escapes, your HVAC has to play catch-up and run longer to reach your desired temperature again. Over time, the added strain wears down internal components, reducing the lifespan of your unit.
Pay attention to your ductwork
Your ductwork plays a bigger role in your HVAC system’s lifespan than you may realize. If any of your air ducts are leaking or dirty, your HVAC doesn’t run as efficiently. When airflow is restricted, your HVAC system may run continuously to compensate for blocked or dirty air ducts. The added strain from improper airflow wears down your system’s internal components.
When conditioned air escapes, your HVAC system runs longer to meet heating and cooling demands and maintain a consistent temperature in your home. Leaks in your ductwork can also cause uneven temperatures from room to room.
Having a professional HVAC company come in to seal and clean your air ducts can help improve overall efficiency. Otherwise, the wear and tear may catch up to your HVAC system, causing issues down the line.
Replace your air filters regularly
Your filters play a vital role in maintaining proper airflow and should be replaced every 1 to 3 months. Just like dirty air ducts, dirty filters can become clogged and restrict airflow. They’re like the first line of defense, trapping all the dirt, dust, and debris in your home before it interferes with the internal parts.
When your filters get dirty, indoor air quality can suffer, and your HVAC system may be at risk of overheating because it has to work harder to push air through. Changing your air filters regularly is an easy way to ensure your HVAC system runs efficiently for years to come.
Schedule annual cleaning and maintenance
Annual maintenance is one of the best ways to keep your unit running efficiently and prolong its lifespan. Annual tune-ups, or as we like to call them, a Clean & Check, can help you catch any underlying issues before they turn into costly problems down the road. During a furnace or air conditioning Clean & Check, your unit is typically inspected, cleaned, and tested to ensure it’s functioning properly.
You can feel confident that all internal components are working properly and not adding unnecessary strain to your system. Being proactive and scheduling annual maintenance and cleaning goes a long way toward maintaining your HVAC system.
Contact Allen Heating and Cooling today to schedule your HVAC maintenance
If you’re looking for an honest and fair local HVAC and plumbing company, Allen Heating and Cooling is here to help. Our experienced techs provide high-quality services, including installation, annual maintenance, emergency repairs, and more. We carry top-of-the-line products from the industry’s best brands, including Honeywell, American Standard, Mitsubishi, and more. Our technicians can make expert recommendations tailored to your home’s needs at a fair, affordable price.
With over 20 years of service under our belt, we’re well-equipped to handle all of your heating, cooling, ventilation, and plumbing needs in Northern Illinois. So call our office today at 815-298-8020 to schedule your next service appointment.
