The HVAC system in your Dayton, MN or Forest Lake home is one of the most expensive pieces of equipment in the house and the largest energy consumer. So it only makes sense to invest a little bit of money in service for this essential system and eliminate any mistakes you could be making that are damaging your home. The experts at Blue Ox Heating and Air are always ready to provide expert service and repairs, as well as a few tips to help you avoid costly damage to your home or HVAC equipment.

A DIRTY AIR FILTER

Changing the HVAC air filter sounds like an effortless task, and in most cases, it is. However, it is also one that is easy to overlook. When that air filter becomes covered in dust and dirt, it begins to starve your HVAC system for air. As a result, the fan and motor must work harder to draw in air, and your utility bills start to increase. The simple solution is to inspect the air filter every month and change it when it begins to look fuzzy from the trapped dust.

OVERLY RESTRICTIVE AIR FILTERS

In the last few years, there has been much information out there about upgraded HVAC air filters that will remove particles as small as .3 microns, the size of viruses. However, when you install these super-filters, it is essential to note that they will take a severe toll on your HVAC equipment. The density of the filters requires far more effort from the motor of the heating and cooling system to draw air in through the filter. The result is added energy consumption and a shortened life for your heating and cooling equipment. If you are interested in added filtration for the air in your home, call 952-208-4570 to discuss ways to improve your home’s air quality with a Blue Ox HVAC expert.

TOO MUCH HUMIDITY FROM RUNNING A BLOWER CONSTANTLY

High humidity is bad for all of the surfaces in your home, from the cabinetry, doors, and windows that can swell to the bathrooms that become covered in mildew and mold. But many homeowners are unaware that they are inadvertently increasing the humidity by constantly running the HVAC blower. Having the blower on an always-on setting rather than using the blower only when the compressor is operating will increase the humidity by 6 to 10 percent. And while that might not sound significant, it is enough to decrease your comfort level and cause damage and mildew growth in your home.

USING CLEANER ON COILS

Many homeowners think that more is always better. So when you are going to clean condenser coils and fins, it is better to use some cleaning agent. However, those liquids contain acidic or alkaline substances that can damage the HVAC equipment. So instead, clean the coils regularly with nothing but a gentle stream of pure water or call 952-208-4570 to schedule service and cleaning from the pros at Blue Ox Heating & Air.