As chilly weather starts to set in, it’s time to make sure your HVAC system is ready to keep your home warm this winter. By ensuring your heating system runs efficiently, you’ll not only avoid unexpected breakdowns but also save money on utility bills. In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential steps to get your HVAC system winter-ready so that you can enjoy a cozy, worry-free season.
Schedule Maintenance Service
One of the most critical steps in preparing your HVAC system for winter is scheduling a professional heating maintenance visit. A qualified technician will thoroughly inspect and tune up your furnace during this service. They will clean your system’s interior components, tighten electrical connections, lubricate moving parts, and examine the blower and heat exchanger to ensure they function correctly. They will also ensure your heater’s safety features are in good condition. Annual maintenance helps to catch any potential issues before they become costly repairs and ensures that your system runs smoothly and safely throughout the winter months.
In addition to the immediate benefits, scheduling maintenance is often a requirement to keep your system’s warranty valid. Many manufacturers stipulate regular professional service to maintain coverage, protecting you from expensive out-of-pocket repairs should something go wrong. Staying on top of your HVAC maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your system but also keeps your warranty intact.
Replace HVAC Filters
Fall is the perfect time to go ahead and replace your HVAC filter to give your heating system a clean start. Your furnace’s air filter protects the internal components of your heating system from dirt and debris. It also plays a critical role in maintaining indoor air quality by capturing airborne contaminants that would otherwise recirculate through your living spaces. Experts suggest changing your HVAC filter at least every three months. However, you may need to replace yours more often based on factors like how many people live in your household and the age of your heating system. Many homeowners inspect their filters once a month to ensure they know when it is time for a new one.
Seal Up Your AC System
Preparing your central air conditioning system for the winter months is essential so that it is ready to cool your home in the spring. Consider investing in a high-quality outdoor cover. A cover will prevent debris such as leaves, branches, and snow from entering and causing damage. Ensure that the cover you choose has breathable sides. These allow any trapped moisture to escape, preventing rust and corrosion.
Program Your Thermostat
As winter approaches, it’s an ideal time to program your thermostat for the season ahead. Programming can significantly enhance energy efficiency and reduce your utility bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners can save about 10% on their heating costs by adjusting their thermostat seven to 10 degrees for eight hours a day from its usual setting.
For instance, you can program your thermostat to lower the temperature when no one is at home. Then, it should be set to return to a comfortable level shortly before household members return from work or school.
Test Smoke Detectors
Ensuring that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning during the winter months is crucial. While your furnace is designed to vent exhaust fumes directly outdoors for safety, any malfunction in the heating system could lead to harmful gases backing up inside your home. This makes having a carbon monoxide detector, in addition to your standard smoke detectors, essential for protecting your household.
Start by testing each detector to confirm that it is working correctly and that it has fresh batteries. It’s also important to place a fire extinguisher near your heating system in case of a fire. Ensure that the extinguisher is a Class C type and check that it hasn’t expired.
Test Your System
No wintertime HVAC prep list is complete without giving your system a test run. You want to aim to set the temperature at least six degrees higher than the ambient room temperature. When your heating system kicks on, you’ll want to walk around to each of your supply vents to ensure that hot air is coming out. Take note of any rooms where you’re not getting adequate heat, as it could signal an obstruction somewhere in your ductwork. While checking each vent, ensure there are no obstructions, such as area rugs and furniture, blocking airflow. Also, check that they are all in the fully open position. If anything doesn’t feel right, it’s time to call the HVAC professionals for heating service.
Seal Off Air Gaps
As insulation materials in your home expand and contract with temperature changes, they can create gaps that allow cold air to seep in. You can perform a simple air leak test by moving a lit candle or incense stick around potential leak areas. If the flame flickers or smoke is drawn towards the gap, you have identified a leak that needs attention. Use weather stripping or caulking to fill these gaps effectively.
Additionally, inspect your home for air leaks around light switches and electrical receptacles on exterior walls. They can be susceptible to drafts. You can use foam insert pads to block airflow and improve insulation to address this issue. These pads are available at most hardware stores.
Switch the Direction of Your Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans can play a significant role in reducing your utility bills throughout the year. During the transition from summer to the colder winter season, it’s crucial to adjust the direction of your fan blades.
In the winter, set your ceiling fan to spin clockwise. Instead of pushing air downward, the fan will pull air upward towards the ceiling. This movement helps to circulate the warm air that rises and accumulates near the ceiling, pushing it outward towards the walls. As a result, the warm air gradually descends back to the floor, helping to evenly distribute heat throughout the room and enhancing overall comfort.
Consider Ductwork Sealing
In addition to causing insulation issues around windows, expansion and contraction can cause air gaps to develop in your ductwork. Anywhere there is gapping, you’re going to lose hot air and end up overworking your heating system. It can be highly beneficial to invest in duct sealing services. This process will seal air leaks so that your ductwork can more effectively deliver hot air throughout your home.
Order Your Fuel
If your furnace runs on heating oil, you have a storage tank at your home. Fall is the perfect time to go ahead and schedule fuel delivery so that you have adequate fuel when you need to run your system. Many homeowners find it helpful to sign up for automatic delivery service so that they never have to worry about running out during the coldest winter months.
Reliable HVAC Service
At Aace's Heating, Air Conditioning & Swamp Coolers, we have been serving the residents of Victorville, CA and the surrounding areas since 2007. We install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. We can also help with all your indoor air quality, whole-house fan, and swamp cooler needs. You can even save money on maintenance and more with our Club Membership Maintenance Plan. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced team members.