Your HVAC system is one of the hardest-working components of your home, constantly regulating temperature, filtering air, and maintaining a comfortable living environment year-round. But even the most reliable system can fall short when it’s not maintained correctly. While many homeowners believe they’re doing the right things—like changing filters occasionally or spraying an outdoor unit with a garden hose—some of the most common “maintenance habits” actually lead to higher energy bills, premature breakdowns, and expensive repairs.
At Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand how avoidable mistakes can shorten the life of HVAC systems. Here are the most common maintenance errors homeowners make—and how to avoid them.
1. Forgetting to Replace Air Filters—Or Waiting Too Long
One of the cheapest, easiest maintenance tasks is also one of the most ignored. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, forcing your HVAC system to work harder. This leads to higher energy consumption, uneven temperatures, and strain on critical components like the blower motor and compressor. Most homes need filter replacements every 30–90 days, depending on occupancy, pets, and allergies.
Pro Tip: If you have pets or allergies, change filters monthly. A dirty filter costs far more in wasted energy than a fresh one.
2. Skipping Annual HVAC Inspections
Many homeowners assume their system is fine because “nothing seems wrong.” But issues like refrigerant leaks, loose electrical connections, airflow blockages, and failing parts often go unnoticed—until they cause major system damage. Professional seasonal tune-ups catch these problems early and keep your system running efficiently.
Pro Tip: Schedule HVAC maintenance with Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing at least once a year, ideally in spring for cooling and fall for heating.
3. Blocking Air Vents and Registers
Furniture, rugs, storage boxes, and curtains may seem harmless—but they can block your vents and disrupt airflow. This not only forces your HVAC system to work harder but also creates hot and cold spots throughout your home.
Pro Tip: Keep all vents at least 12 inches clear of furniture or décor, and regularly vacuum them to remove dust buildup.
4. Cleaning Outdoor Units Incorrectly
The outdoor condenser unit needs space and airflow to function properly. But homeowners sometimes stack gardening tools nearby, cover it with tarp, or spray it with high-pressure washers—causing physical or electrical damage. If grass clippings, leaves, or dirt clog the coils, your HVAC system loses efficiency and may overheat.
Pro Tip: Keep two feet of clearance around your outdoor unit, and have Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing professionally clean the coils when needed.
5. Ignoring Strange Smells, Sounds, or System Behavior
Small issues like rattling, short-cycling, reduced airflow, or musty smells are often dismissed as “normal.” But these are early warning signs of problems like refrigerant leaks, mold growth, electrical issues, or failing motors. Ignoring them can turn a minor fix into a major expense.
Pro Tip: Call Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing at (661) 760-7411 when your system starts acting differently. Early detection is always cheaper.
6. Closing Vents in Unused Rooms to “Save Energy”
It may seem logical to close vents in rooms you don’t frequently use, but this actually disrupts the pressure balance in your duct system. This can force your HVAC system to work harder, causing duct leaks or blower strain—and it doesn’t actually reduce your energy costs.
Pro Tip: Keep all vents open to allow consistent airflow throughout your home.
7. Failing to Monitor Thermostat Settings
Frequently adjusting the thermostat or setting temperatures too high or low forces your HVAC system to cycle more often, which increases energy use and stresses components. Using a smart or programmable thermostat can help maintain consistent, efficient comfort.
Pro Tip: A smart thermostat installed by Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing helps optimize performance and reduce energy waste automatically.
Protect Your Comfort and Your Investment
Proper HVAC care doesn’t have to be complicated—especially when you have professionals you can trust. At Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing, we provide expert maintenance, inspections, repairs, and energy-efficiency upgrades to help homeowners stay comfortable while saving money.
Call Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing today at (661) 760-7411 to schedule maintenance or learn how to extend the life of your HVAC system the smart way.
