Did you know that the average American family spends $110.76 on their electricity bill monthly?? Of course, this varies widely depending on if you live in a city that is extremely cold or hot. 

You might think that you have your HVAC system down pat, but there are always new things you could learn about it. Read on to see 5 common heating and cooling mistakes you could be making. 

1. Cranking It Way up to Get Cooler or Hotter Faster

You’ve surely done this – you come back home after a long day of being outside and you want the temperature to be perfect in your home. But it’s not, of course. It’s either too cold or too hot. 

Well, then what do you do? Are you patient enough for your HVAC system to catch up to your whims? No, you crank it up, hoping that it will cool or heat your home faster. 

Don’t do that anymore. Your HVAC system operates at one speed and it will operate at that speed no matter how much you crank it up on the thermostat. Leave it at a comfortable temperature and leave it alone!

2. Leaving It Running All Day Long (Even When You Are Not Home)

You want to come back home to a comfortable temperature. But that doesn’t mean that you should leave your home heating system (or cooling system) running all day long, awaiting your return, whenever that might be.

It puts immense strain on your HVAC system and makes mechanical problems more likely. It also increases your electricity bills and wastes precious energy.

The best way to deal with this is to get a smart or programmable thermostat that can heat up or cool down your home 30 minutes before you arrive. 

3. Closing Off Vents in Unused Rooms

Your high electricity bills might be making you tear your hair out. BUT closing off vents in unused rooms in your house is not the solution. In fact, your HVAC unit size is suited to the square footage of your home. 

They match up perfectly, and thus, by closing off vents, you are actually not allowing your HVAC system to perform at its optimal levels. The delicate balance and airflow can be ruined. 

4. Forgetting to Change the Air Filters

It’s so hard to remember to drink enough water during the day, let alone remember to change your air filters. Right? Well, true as that may be, remembering to change your HVAC air filters is essential. 

A clogged air filter can damage your HVAC system and result in bad air quality. Put it on your calendar to check your air filters every 30 days!

5. DIY Repairs on Your HVAC System

You might consider yourself quite the handyman. But an HVAC system is a complicated system that requires the delicate and professional handling of an HVAC repair service. Don’t start rummaging about in there yourself. 

Call a professional who has been dealing with HVAC systems all their working life. 

Heating and Cooling Mistakes Are Easily Avoidable

As you can see, the heating and cooling mistakes mentioned above can be easily avoided leading to an HVAC system that’s running perfectly for years to come. 

If your HVAC system needs repairs, don’t hesitate to contact Sewell Electric & HVAC.