HVAC systems are critical to homeowners as they provide comfort and regulate air temperatures in the home. In fact, according to the Department of Energy, homes without an HVAC system can be up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit warmer or cooler than those with one. This trend can result in various issues, including increased energy bills, health problems, and even property damage.

To put this into perspective, consider these statistics from the Department of Energy:

• Installing or upgrading an HVAC system can save you up to 30% on your energy bill each year.
• HVAC systems account for nearly half of all energy use in homes nationwide.
• A broken HVAC system can increase energy bills by up to 50%.

Unfortunately, your HVAC system at home might get broken, putting you and your family at risk of the consequences mentioned above. So, what do you do when this happens? How can you move forward? Here are a few steps to take when dealing with a broken HVAC system.

HVAC Maintenance

There is no way you should let an HVAC system remain broken, especially when you live in areas with extreme temperatures. Not only will it be uncomfortable for you and your family, but it can also lead to more significant problems. That’s why it’s essential to take care of your HVAC system and prevent these issues from happening in the first place.

Here are a few tips on how to do that:

1. Understand how your HVAC system works. This might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many homeowners don’t know the essential functions of their HVAC system. By understanding how it works, you’ll be able to take better care of it and spot potential problems early on.
2. Schedule regular maintenance appointments with a professional. This is perhaps the most important thing you can do to prevent a broken HVAC system. By having someone come in and inspect your system regularly, you’ll be able to catch issues early on and fix them before they become more significant problems.
3. Change the air filters regularly. You can do this independently, and it’s one of the simplest yet most effective ways to take care of your HVAC system. Most experts recommend changing air filters every three months, but you might need to do it more often if you have pets or live in a dusty area.
4. Fix any leaks immediately. Leaks in your HVAC system can lead to a decrease in efficiency and an increase in your energy bills.

Unfortunately, some of those steps could be challenging for an inexperienced DIY homeowner. If you want to play it safe, the best option would be to hire a professional HVAC contractor to maintain your system regularly. Doing so will save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.

Rent a Temporary Unit

Unfortunately, the HVAC system might not function by the time you need it. While you can survive the heat by opening windows and fans and thrive in winter by layering up and using space heaters, those are only temporary solutions that won’t be practical or comfortable in the long run.

That’s why you should consider renting a temporary unit while you wait for your HVAC system to be fixed. This way, you can maintain a comfortable temperature in your home without putting too much stress on your system.

Many companies offer temporary units for rent, so do your research and find one that’s reputable and has good reviews. AC unit rental services are becoming increasingly popular, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding a company that can help you.

Once you find a company, make sure to ask about the different options they have available. There are various types and sizes of units, so you’ll want to ensure you get one suitable for your needs. Also, inquire about how long the rental period is and whether any discounts are available.

Upgrade to Smart Thermostat

A broken HVAC system might be a blessing in disguise because it gives you the perfect opportunity to upgrade to a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats are becoming increasingly popular because they offer many benefits that traditional thermostats don’t.

Smart thermostats are much more energy-efficient because they can learn your habits and adjust the temperature accordingly. This leads to significant savings on your energy bills, which can offset the cost of the unit itself.

Another benefit of Smart thermostats is that they’re much more convenient than traditional units. You can control them from your phone or tablet, so you don’t have to get up whenever you want to adjust the temperature.

Get a Smart thermostat from a reputable company if you want to take advantage of all these benefits. There are many options on the market, so take your time to find one that suits your needs.

Final Thoughts

A broken HVAC system is a significant inconvenience, but it doesn’t have to ruin your life. By taking the proper steps, you can minimize the disruption and get your home back to normal in no time.

Just remember to stay calm, take things one step at a time, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. With a little effort, you’ll have your HVAC system up and running before you know it.