Maintaining your home’s heating and cooling system can seem like a daunting task, but with a few simple DIY tips, you can keep your system running smoothly and save on energy costs. Northeast Heating, Cooling and Refrigeration Co., Inc. proudly serves the communities of Colonie, Loudonville, East Greenbush, Cohoes, Latham, and Guilderland, NY, and we’ve put together this guide to help you keep your home comfortable all year round.

Changing Air Filters

One of the most important DIY tasks for your HVAC system is changing the air filters regularly. Dirty filters can restrict airflow, reducing the efficiency of your system and potentially causing it to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and premature wear and tear.

1. Check your system’s manual or contact a professional to determine the recommended frequency for changing filters.
2. Turn off the power to your system before attempting to change the filter.
3. Carefully remove the old filter and make note of its size and type.
4. Install the new filter, making sure it’s properly aligned and secured.

Outdoor Unit Maintenance

Your outdoor condensing unit or heat pump requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Here are a few tips:

• Clear away any debris, such as leaves or twigs, that may have accumulated around the unit.
• Use a garden hose to gently rinse off any dirt or dust buildup on the fins and coils.
• Trim back any vegetation that may be growing too close to the unit, allowing for proper airflow.

Thermostat Settings

Adjusting your thermostat settings can have a significant impact on your energy consumption and costs. Consider the following tips:

• During the summer months, set your thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re away from home or sleeping.
• In the winter, lower the temperature a few degrees to reduce heating costs.
• Invest in a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule.

Remember, while DIY maintenance can help extend the life of your HVAC system and save you money, it’s essential to schedule regular professional servicing to ensure your system is operating at peak efficiency and to catch any potential issues before they become major problems.