(1) Maintenance - A well cared for cooling and heating system is less likely to experience the sort of catastrophic breakdown that can result in high repair bills. Have a comprehensive “tune-up” on the furnace and air conditioner each season.

(2) Seals - Check the seals around windows, doors, electrical outlets or any other potential sources for escaping air. Seal these areas using a good quality caulk, and be sure to re-examine your handiwork every few years.

(3) Check Filter - Check the air filter in your furnace or fan coil each month. A dirty filter will cause excessive wear on your furnace, air conditioner or heat pump. Replace your filter when necessary.

(4) Brush Exterior - If the exterior of your outdoor coil (condensing unit) becomes dirty, use a brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to clean the surface.  To clean dirt that is deep in the coil, contact one of the Home Services Review selected contractors to schedule maintenance.

(5) Remove Debris - Keep your outdoor condensing unit free of debris. If you keep grass clippings, leaves, shrubbery and debris away from your outdoor unit, it should only require minimal care. Check the base pan (under the unit) occasionally and remove debris to help the unit drain properly.

(6) Inspect Ventilation - Inspect your furnace’s combustion area and vent system before each heating season.  If you find dirt, soot or rust, your system may not operate properly or at its peak efficiency. Call a professional and do not operate your furnace until it is professionally inspected and/or repaired.

(7) Leaky Ducts - The California Energy Commission reported that the average home’s ducts leak around 30% of the conditioned air into the attic or under the house. These leaks are taking money straight out of your pocket. Properly sealed ducts will lower your energy bill and reduce pollution inside your home.

(8) Comfort - Many homes experience hot and cold spots within a room or between rooms. Today’s new furnaces have a variable speed furnace that can significantly improve or eliminate uncomfortable areas in the home. Zone control systems are also available that can allow for room by room, or zone by zone thermostat temperature control.

(9) Indoor Air Quality - The EPA has ranked indoor air pollution at levels of 5 times higher than outside.  New technology in Air Purifiers now exists that will capture and “kill” airborne particles including viruses bacteria, allergents, pet dander, dust, and household smells.

(10) Use of Programmable Thermostats - Yearly energy savings can be realized when using programmable thermostats. For example, program your thermostat at 65 degrees at night during the winter, then back to 72 degrees during the day.