One of the notable indicators telling you that winter is fast approaching is the drastic drop in temperatures. This is accompanied by an increase in your utility bills mainly because of the heating costs. However, preparing your HVAC system in advance and ensuring that it is well maintained can significantly cut down on your power usage and even enhance its lifespan. Below are some of the things you should do in preparation for the cold and chilly season.
Inspecting the HVAC System
Many HVAC systems can serve you for a period of up to 20 years before you think about getting a replacement. This however depends on how regularly your system is inspected by a professional so as to ascertain its efficient and proper functioning. Some homeowners make the mistake of waiting for winter to set in then call HVAC technicians for an inspection.
The best way to do it is to have it checked long before winter begins preferably during fall. Imagine discovering during winter that your system is faulty and it has to be replaced. This will mean you and your family will have to stay in the cold for a few days.
Changing Filters
This is a commonly repeated plea because filters though negligible in cost can cause your entire heating system to either stop functioning or if it does, at a very inefficient level. The good thing is you don’t need to call a professional for this because you can do it all by yourself. The two main types of filters are reusable and disposable. The reusable ones can be cleaned and then fitted back for another round of service while the disposable filters have to be removed. In either case, the filters should be inspected at least once per month.
Updating Your Thermostat
The older thermostats which use mercury can give inaccurate readings and this will affect your indoor temperature level. For instance, you can set your thermostat at a given temperature which you think is adequate, but when the heating system starts operating, it exceeds the desired temperatures causing discomfort and energy wastage.
Consider replacing your thermostat with a digital one so that readings and temperature settings can be accurate. In addition, digital thermostats have the advantage of being programmable and this means you can set your heating to go on automatically before you return home or you wake up. When you are on vacation, you can also set your temperature at a given level and this will mean your home doesn’t become freezing cold or cozy and yet there is no one in the house.
Cleaning the Heating Ducts
If your ductwork is to provide fresh, clean air and allow efficient heating, it must be cleaned periodically. Ensure the heating ducts are routinely inspected and any punctures, disconnected parts and dents identified and repaired well in advance.
Damaged ducts can easily raise your heating bills by blowing out warm air. You should also check the duct insulation so that air doesn’t seep out and waste energy. You should let professionals handle the inspections.
Installing proper insulation around your home and working on the ventilation will not only educe energy wastage, but also prevent buildup of moisture.