The leaves are falling, and children are getting excited and planning for Halloween. If you don't want spooky things happening when you turn on your heat for the cold months ahead, then now is the time to get your HVAC system inspected and ready for winter.
Remember, your furnace has not been used for quite a few months, and you will want to make sure that there are no hidden problems that could pop up out of nowhere when you least expect it. It is always better to verify that the system is working fine now, rather than put it off to a later date. As time passes, the weather will get colder and colder, and you really do not want to have to deal with a heating problem in the dead of winter.
There are certainly some things you can do yourself to get it prepared, but you will need the professionals to take care of other extra maintenance.
What You Can Do To Prepare Your Home For Winter
Heating is one of the most expensive charges on your electric bill. There are obviously, certain things that you can do that will help your furnace run more efficiently. Doing the following will help to keep things running smoothly and keep your electric bill down this winter.
Change Your Air Filters Regularly
Many people forget to do this on a regular basis, and it can add up to additional heating costs if the filters are clogged up or dirty. Your furnace cannot run efficiently if your filters are not changed routinely. If you have pets at home, you will need to use denser filters and change them more frequently.
Have Your Ducts Cleaned and Checked Twice a Year
Your heating ducts are responsible for allowing the air to circulate properly throughout your home. If these are clogged with dust, dirt and debris, your system cannot work at peak performance. Be sure to have them inspected for leaks, cracks or broken seals.
Because your heating ducts are usually not seen, many people tend to forget about them. Go throughout your home and make sure that there is nothing blocking the airflow from the vents such as toys, curtains, furniture or rugs.
Ceiling Fans
If you have ceiling fans, change them now to turn in a clockwise rotation because heat rises and this helps to send the heat back down into the room.
What HVAC Professionals Will Do To Ensure Your Furnace Works Efficiently
- They Will Check and Clean Your Condenser Coils
- They Will Check Your Blower Wheels and Components, Adjusting and Cleaning Them if Needed
- They Will Check Your Thermostat and Make Sure it is Calibrated
- They Will Check Your Electrical Components and Check Your Motor Voltage & Amperage
- They Will Check Your Pressure
- They Will Lubricate All of Your Furnaces Moving Parts
- They Will Replace Any Filters That Need Changing
- They Will Check Any Belts and Replace Them if Necessary
- They Will Inspect All Wiring
- They Will Inspect Your Vents & Ducts And Clean Them if Necessary
These are the things that will keep your furnace running optimally and are best left to the professionals to deal with.
Remember, a little bit of time spent on your HVAC system maintenance now will keep your furnace from playing tricks on you in the months ahead. Make sure that your furnace is in good shape so that you and your family can enjoy your time together in a warm and cozy home this winter.
Call in the professionals today, so that you can enjoy your winter without any unexpected surprises from your heating system.
