Now that winter is officially here; it’s time to ensure your home’s heating system is ready for the coldest months of the year.
To help you prepare your home for winter, we’ve put together a list of tips on preparing your home’s heating system for the season.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be able to keep your home warm and cozy all winter long!
Inspect your heating system to make sure it's in good condition
A heating system is a critical component in any home, and it’s essential to ensure it’s in good working condition. An annual inspection can help identify potential problems and ensure your system runs efficiently. Some things that should be checked during an inspection include the furnace, the thermostat, the ductwork, and the vents. If any of these components are not working correctly, it can lead to decreased heating efficiency and higher energy bills. In some cases, repairing or replacing system parts may also be necessary.
It’s essential to have your heating system inspected by a professional annually. This will help ensure it’s running efficiently and help identify any potential problems. If you’re unsure how to do this, you can always contact a local HVAC contractor to help.
Change your furnace filter and air filters.
Winter is the time of year when furnaces are running non-stop to keep homes warm. This can take a toll on furnace filters, which can become clogged with dust and other airborne particles. Depending on your filter type, it may need to be changed every few months or yearly. In addition to changing your furnace filter, it’s also essential to change your air filters. These filters capture airborne particles that can cause allergies and respiratory problems. By changing your air filters regularly, you can help improve indoor air quality and prevent these health problems.
If you have never changed your furnace or air filter, it’s essential to know how to do so correctly. First, you’ll need to identify the type of filter you have. Once you know the kind of filter, you can purchase the correct replacement filter. To change your furnace filter, simply remove the old filter and insert the new one. Ensure the new filter is seated correctly, and close the furnace door. To change your air filter, open the air handler and locate the filter. Remove the old filter and insert the new one, ensuring it is properly seated. Close the air handler, and you’re done!
Clean out the vents and ducts.
One of the most important things you can do to maintain a healthy and efficient HVAC system is to clean out the vents and ducts regularly. Over time, dust and debris can build up in these areas, causing the system to work harder, and leading to higher energy bills. In addition, the build-up of dirt and grime can lead to problems with indoor air quality. To clean out your vents and ducts, start by removing the register covers and vacuuming them with a soft brush attachment. Then, use a vacuum hose to reach into the ductwork and remove any visible dirt and debris. Finally, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any remaining debris. For best results, repeat this process every few months.
Test the thermostat to make sure it's working correctly.
Before using your heating system for the winter, you must test your thermostat to ensure it’s working correctly. After all, you don’t want to be left in the cold if the temperature starts dipping and your thermostat isn’t functioning correctly. To test your thermostat, simply set it to the desired temperature and then wait to see if your heating system kicks on. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to either replace the batteries or call a professional to look at them. Either way, by testing your thermostat now, you can rest assured that you’ll be cozy all winter.
Once you’ve confirmed that your thermostat is working correctly, it’s time to start thinking about your heating system. It might be time for an upgrade if you have an older system. Newer systems are more efficient and can save you money in the long run. Not to mention, they’ll keep you even warmer than your old system ever did. So, if you’re in the market for a new heating system, research and find one that will be the perfect fit for your home.
Add insulation to your attic, crawlspace, or basement.
If your home is like most, it has some areas that could use more insulation. Attics, crawlspaces, and basements are all familiar places for heat to escape in the winter and cool air to leak out in the summer. By adding insulation to these areas, you can help to keep your home more comfortable and energy-efficient. There are a variety of insulation materials available, so it’s essential to choose one that is appropriate for the specific area you’re trying to insulate. For example, fiberglass batting is famous for attics, while spray foam is often used in crawlspaces. Not sure where to start? This guide can help you choose the best insulation for your needs.
There are many benefits to adding insulation to your home. Perhaps the most obvious is that it can help to keep your home more comfortable. In the winter, insulation keeps heat in, and in the summer, it helps keep cool air in. This can lead to more consistent temperatures throughout your home and less heating and cooling, saving you money on your energy bills.
Seal any cracks or gaps around doors and windows.
As the weather gets colder, you’ll want to ensure that your home is adequately sealed to prevent drafts. One way to do this is to check for cracks or gaps around doors and windows. If you find any, seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. This will help to keep warm air in and cold air out, saving you money on your energy bills. In addition, if you have a fireplace, ensure the damper is closed when it’s not in use. An open damper can allow heat to escape the chimney, making your home less comfortable and costing you more heat. Lastly, keep an eye on your furnace and have it serviced regularly. A well-maintained furnace will operate more efficiently and help keep your home warm all winter.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to improve the efficiency of your heating system, there are a few things you can do yourself before calling in the professionals. Make sure to change your furnace filter and air filters regularly, clean out the vents and ducts, and test the thermostat to ensure it’s working correctly. You may also want to add insulation to your attic, crawlspace, or basement and seal any cracks or gaps around doors and windows. These simple tasks can help improve the performance of your heating system and save you money on energy costs this winter.
For more extensive repairs or replacements, contact an HVAC contractor like Accurate Baker-Elman for professional assistance. Accurate Baker-Elman is a trusted HVAC contractor based in Franklin, MA, United States. They offer a wide range of services, including furnace repair and replacement, AC repair and replacement, ductwork installation, and more. Contact Accurate Baker-Elman today for all your HVAC needs!
