Ways to Get Your HVAC System Ready For Winter

It is a good idea to inspect your HVAC system before each season change, which includes winter. Your heater is going to have a lot of use during the winter, so it is a good idea to have the system maintained and go through a few basic steps to prepare it for the extra use.

Look For Ways Air Can Escape

Before you start inspecting and maintaining your HVAC system, make sure no air can escape your home when it is running. If there is a crack around a window or a hole in the attic ducts, air will start to escape during the winter when running the heater, which can then cause you to lose energy. It also puts more stress on the heater since it works extra hard just to heat up your home. Look around the perimeter of your home, inside and outside, and in spaces like the attic and basement. Fix any holes or cracks you find to eliminate air leaks.

Test Out the Thermostat

A common area of an HVAC system to become faulty and affect the heater is the thermostat. It is a good idea to test it before the coldest days of winter begin so you can get it repaired before you really need it. First try turning on the heater manually and seeing how long until it comes on. Next, turn it off and set a programmed temperature, then wait to see if it kicks on when the inside of your home reaches that temperature. If it doesn't kick on properly, or it seems to take a long time, there might be something wrong with the thermostat. You can try changing the batteries if it takes them, but if not, you need to consult a professional.

Have the Ducts Cleaned

If it has been a while since your home's air ducts have been cleaned, now is a good time to do it. Even with air filters, allergens, dust, and debris can get built up in the ducts, which might then come into your home's air supply through the vents. Consult a duct cleaning professional to clean them out before the winter when you will be using your heater frequently. You don't want to reduce your air quality just to get warm.

Get the HVAC Unit Maintained

Even if you don't notice any major issues, you should still call a professional appliance repair technician to inspect your heater or HVAC unit thoroughly. It is good to do this before each season to make sure it is working properly. They can look for small repairs that need to be done in order to increase its efficiency.

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