Keeping your HVAC system in good condition isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about cost savings. Heating and cooling often account for nearly half of a home’s energy consumption, which means small changes in system efficiency can have a big impact on your monthly utility bills. With the right HVAC maintenance tips and consistent care, you can extend your system’s lifespan, reduce breakdowns, and save money in the long run.

At FTM Heating and Cooling, we know how important it is for Gresham, OR homeowners to maximize efficiency without sacrificing comfort. Below, we’ll share the top five HVAC maintenance tricks to help you cut energy costs while keeping your home at the perfect temperature year-round.

1. Change Air Filters Regularly

One of the simplest yet most effective HVAC maintenance tips is replacing your air filters on time. As filters get clogged with dust, dirt, and allergens, the airflow is reduced. This forces your HVAC system to work harder, consuming more energy to maintain your desired indoor temperature.

Most experts recommend changing filters every one to three months, depending on the type of filter and whether you have pets, allergies, or high indoor air pollution. Not only does this reduce energy waste, but it also improves your indoor air quality.

Pro HVAC maintenance trick: Set reminders in your phone or calendar so you never forget a filter change. Even this small habit can lower your energy bills by up to 15%.

2. Keep Your HVAC System Clean

Another crucial part of HVAC maintenance is keeping both indoor and outdoor components clean. Dirt and debris buildup on coils, vents, and fans can drastically reduce your system’s efficiency. If the outdoor condenser unit is blocked by leaves or grass clippings, for example, it won’t release heat properly, forcing your system to run longer than necessary.

Make it a habit to:

• Wipe down and vacuum indoor vents.
• Clear debris and vegetation around the outdoor unit.
• Gently hose down the outdoor condenser coils (but avoid using high pressure).
  

Pro HVAC maintenance tip: Maintain at least two feet of clearance around your outdoor unit for proper airflow. This simple trick helps your HVAC system perform better and keeps energy bills in check.

3. Schedule Professional Tune-Ups

While there are many HVAC maintenance tricks you can do yourself, some tasks require professional expertise. Seasonal tune-ups from licensed technicians are essential for preventing costly repairs and ensuring your system runs at peak efficiency.

During a professional HVAC maintenance appointment, a technician will:

• Inspect and clean coils.
• Check refrigerant levels.
• Test thermostat calibration.
• Lubricate moving parts.
• Identify small issues before they become expensive problems.
  

At FTM Heating and Cooling, we recommend scheduling tune-ups twice a year—once in the spring for cooling and once in the fall for heating. These appointments are an investment that can pay off with lower energy bills and fewer emergency breakdowns.

4. Seal Leaks and Insulate Your Home

Even the most well-maintained HVAC system can waste energy if your home isn’t properly sealed and insulated. Leaky ducts, drafty windows, and poorly insulated attics allow conditioned air to escape, forcing your HVAC system to work harder.

Here are a few HVAC maintenance tips that involve improving your home’s efficiency:

• Seal air leaks around doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulking.
• Insulate attics, basements, and crawl spaces to reduce heat loss.
• Have your ductwork inspected for leaks and get them sealed by a professional.
  

Pro HVAC maintenance trick: Investing in proper insulation and duct sealing can improve system efficiency by up to 20%, leading to substantial savings on your monthly energy bills.

5. Use Smart Thermostats and Manage Settings

Technology can play a big role in HVAC efficiency. A smart thermostat allows you to program temperature settings based on your lifestyle, reducing energy waste when you’re not home.

For example, you can set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter or higher in the summer while you’re at work, then have it automatically return to your preferred temperature before you get home.

Additional HVAC maintenance tip: Avoid drastic temperature changes, as they force your system to overwork. Instead, make gradual adjustments to maintain comfort while saving energy.

At FTM Heating and Cooling, we can help you choose and install the right smart thermostat for your home to maximize efficiency and savings.

Contact FTM Heating and Cooling for Expert HVAC Services

Regular HVAC maintenance not only saves money but also prevents unexpected system failures during extreme weather. By following these HVAC maintenance tips and partnering with trusted professionals, you’ll enjoy consistent comfort, improved air quality, and lower energy bills.

If you live in Gresham, OR, and want expert help with your heating and cooling system (AC installation and repair, heating services, furnace, heat pumps, and water heaters), FTM Heating and Cooling is here for you. Call us today at (971) 447-7875 to schedule an appointment and keep your HVAC system running efficiently all year long.

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