The best time to prepare your home for winter is before winter begins. You don’t want to discover that your heating system isn’t working when cold weather arrives. Make your home a more energy-efficient place and reduce utility costs by making sure that your home is ready for the season. Prepare your home for winter with a few simple tasks.
Change or Clean Air Filters Regularly
Furnace filters need to be changed at least every three months. Replacing your filters regularly prevents harmful particles from entering your HVAC system. Clogged filters do not promote energy efficiency since they cause less air to flow through the system, which raises your home’s energy usage. Why not stock up on extra air filters during the warmer months when they are often available at a cheaper price? If your system uses a permanently installed air filter, be sure to remove it and clean the filter regularly.
Check Ductworks for Leaks
Poorly insulated ducts can cause leaks in ducts. Leaky ductwork will not only increase your energy expenses, but you’ll also be left with insufficient heating in your home. Hush Air Heating & Air Conditioning details the signs of leaky ductwork and informs you about what to do when you need to replace the ductwork in your home. If you notice any of these signs in your home, check the ducts for sections that may have separated and developed holes. Call an HVAC services professional for any duct repair or replacement work that may be needed.
Keep Vents Clear
To maintain your HVAC system in a cost-effective way, make sure that vents throughout your home are free from obstructions. Furniture, drapes, or other items can block your vents. Blocked vents will not warm your home effectively. A clear pathway for airflow is necessary for your HVAC system to perform well and disperse air evenly around the home.
Lower Your Thermostat
By simply lowering your thermostat by a few degrees, you can save money on your utility bill. Why not install a programmable thermostat? This thermostat will adjust the temperature to the most efficient setting based on when your home is occupied. This small upfront expense will save you in the long run by enabling you to control your HVAC system’s operations inside your home.
Clean Your Furnace Before Using It
You likely don’t use your furnace during the summer. When it is idle, the furnace collects dust and dirt, which may affect its performance. Removing and cleaning the vent covers is an easy task, but vacuuming the debris from the ducts isn’t something homeowners should attempt. Dangerous biological growth and bacteria may be present in the pipes, and you need to use an HVAC services professional to service the system. When you do, you’ll enjoy peace of mind, a clean furnace, and a warm home.
Your best preparation for winter is to have your heating system serviced by HVAC professionals. Allow them to inspect it and make any repairs where necessary. A warm home during the winter is a necessity for everyone in the family.
