Imagine this: you step into your home after spending time out in the snow, only to realize that it’s almost as cold inside as it is outside.
HVAC system breakdowns and malfunctions are a nightmare at any time of the year, but they’re always worse when the temperature outside makes your home feel like an icebox!
Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to avoid this headache. We’ve put together a list of our top five HVAC maintenance tips to prepare you for the worst of winter’s cold. Here’s what you need to know.
Replace Your Filters
This is a common maintenance tip, but we’re including it for a reason: it can be a lifesaver!
As your HVAC system moves warm air throughout your home, it pushes it through your air filter. A clogged filter makes it much more difficult for your system to do its job. This, in turn, can mean higher energy costs for less effective heating.
When you do the filter replacement, make sure to choose one with good ratings and recommendations.
Clean Your Vents
You’ll want to clean your vents and registers for the same reason that you’ve replaced your HVAC filter. Doing so makes it easier for your system to move air throughout your home, meaning you’ll have more efficient heating this winter.
Dust dirty vents, clear away debris, and make sure all of your vents and registers are open. In addition, don’t forget to move any furniture blocking these openings.
Clean Your Outdoor Unit
If you haven’t already done so, now is the time of year to clean your outdoor unit. We recommend doing this at least twice a year: once before the summer cooling season and once before the winter heating season.
To perform this winter maintenance, check for leaves, debris, and overgrown plants around your outdoor unit. Clean the exterior, and clear away any nearby bushes or branches.
Change Your Thermometer Setting
Though changing the thermostat may seem like a no-brainer during the cooler months, it’s one of those heating tips we don’t always remember right away.
During the winter, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat at around 68 degrees while you’re awake and lower while you’re asleep. With a programmable thermostat, it’s easy to make sure your home is at the right temperature at all times based on your family’s schedule.
Schedule HVAC Maintenance
While you can tackle the basics of HVAC maintenance on your own, it’s always a good idea to do a professional tune-up before you need to use your system. With a technician to check, clean, and prepare your HVAC system for the coldest winter months, you can ensure that you’re catching any minor issues before they snowball into larger ones.
Follow These HVAC Maintenance Tips
If you want to be sure you and your household feel cozy instead of cold this winter, it’s important to follow these HVAC maintenance tips! With a little effort and a seasonal check-up, you can prepare your system for anything the cold weather can throw at it.
Ready for expert help? Alco HVAC is proud to help homeowners throughout Fredericksburg, Stafford, and Spotsylvania, VA enjoy the winter in comfort. To learn what we can do for you, get in touch.
