You’ve Got HVAC Questions—State Automatic Has Answers
Your HVAC system is one of the most important—and expensive—systems in your home. Yet most homeowners don’t think about it until something goes wrong. The AC stops cooling in the middle of a heatwave. The furnace won’t start on the coldest night of the year. The energy bill keeps climbing, but you have no idea why.
The questions start piling up. How often should I schedule maintenance? What’s the best temperature setting for energy savings? Should I upgrade to a smart thermostat? Why does my system keep running all the time?
You’re not alone. These are the same questions homeowners ask HVAC professionals every single day. And getting the right answers? It can save you money, improve efficiency, and keep your home comfortable year-round.
Let’s dive into the most common HVAC questions—and the expert answers that can help you make the best choices for your home.
My HVAC Questions
How Often Should I Schedule HVAC Maintenance?
Your HVAC system runs for thousands of hours every year. And like any machine, it needs regular maintenance to keep working efficiently. The short answer? Twice a year.
Schedule one tune-up in the spring for your air conditioner and one in the fall for your furnace. These checkups prevent unexpected breakdowns, improve efficiency, and extend the life of your system.
Neglect maintenance, and your system works harder than it should, wastes energy, and is more likely to break down when you need it most.
What’s the Best Temperature Setting for Energy Savings?
Everyone wants to save on their energy bill. The right thermostat setting can make a huge difference.
In the summer, 78°F when you’re home and 85°F when you’re away keeps cooling costs under control. Lowering it just a few degrees can increase energy usage by 10% or more.
In the winter, 68°F when you’re home and lower at night or when you’re away helps cut heating costs. Every degree you lower your thermostat can save up to 5% on heating expenses.
The easiest way to maximize savings? A smart thermostat. These systems learn your habits, adjust temperatures automatically, and prevent energy waste—without you lifting a finger.
Do Air Filters Really Matter?
More than you think. A clogged air filter can increase energy costs by up to 15% and shorten your system’s lifespan.
Your air filter traps dust, allergens, pet dander, and debris before they circulate through your home. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forces your HVAC system to work harder, and reduces efficiency.
Change your filter every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and household factors like pets or allergies. Skipping this simple step leads to higher bills, worse air quality, and preventable system strain.
Why Is One Room Hot While Another Is Cold?
Uneven temperatures are one of the biggest frustrations for homeowners. Your bedroom is freezing, but the living room feels like an oven. Why?
The most common causes are poor duct design, blocked vents, an aging HVAC system, or an improperly sized unit. If your system is too small, it struggles to reach every room. If it’s too large, it cycles on and off too quickly, leaving some areas without enough conditioned air.
Other culprits include leaky ducts, dirty air filters, and even furniture blocking airflow from vents. In many cases, zoned HVAC systems or ductless mini-splits can solve the issue by providing targeted heating and cooling where it’s needed most.
Is It Worth Upgrading to a Smart Thermostat?
Absolutely. Smart thermostats save the average homeowner 10-20% on energy bills.
Unlike traditional thermostats, which rely on manual adjustments, smart models learn your schedule, adjust temperatures automatically, and optimize energy use.
They also allow remote control from your phone, voice commands, and energy tracking—so you always know how much you’re spending and where you can save.
For most homeowners, a smart thermostat pays for itself within a year. If your system still relies on an old manual thermostat, you’re missing out on easy savings and better comfort.
Why Is My HVAC System Running Constantly?
If your HVAC system never stops running, something is wrong.
It could be an oversized system cycling on and off too quickly, a leaky duct system losing conditioned air, or a thermostat issue causing the system to work harder than necessary.
Another major culprit? A system that’s simply too old. If your unit is over 10-15 years old, it may no longer be efficient enough to keep up, forcing it to work harder just to maintain the same temperatures.
A professional HVAC inspection can pinpoint the exact issue, prevent excessive energy waste, and extend the life of your system.
How Long Should an HVAC System Last?
The average lifespan of an HVAC system depends on how well it’s maintained, how often it runs, and the type of unit.
A central air conditioner or heat pump lasts 12-15 years. A furnace can last 15-20 years. But systems that don’t get regular maintenance often fail much sooner.
Regular tune-ups, filter changes, and minor repairs can add years to your system’s life while keeping it running efficiently. If your HVAC system is over 15 years old and struggling, replacement might be the best financial decision.
What’s the Best Way to Lower My Energy Bills?
Your HVAC system is the biggest energy user in your home. If your bills are climbing, your system could be the reason.
The fastest ways to lower energy costs include installing a high-efficiency HVAC unit, upgrading to a smart thermostat, sealing duct leaks, improving insulation, and maintaining your system regularly.
If you’re still using a system that’s more than a decade old, you could be spending 30-40% more than necessary on heating and cooling.
Upgrading to an energy-efficient model with a high SEER rating and variable-speed technology can dramatically cut costs while improving home comfort.
Have More Questions? Get Expert Answers from HVAC Professionals
HVAC systems aren’t something you should guess about. The right answers save you money, keep your home comfortable, and prevent costly repairs.
If you still have questions, need advice, or want a professional opinion on your heating and cooling system, we’re here to help.
Call State Automatic at 630-326-6330 for expert HVAC recommendations in Batavia, IL. Get the answers you need—straight from the pros.
