Is your home’s heating system ready for winter? If you’re like most homeowners, you probably haven’t paid much attention to it in months. However, now that the cold weather is approaching, it’s time to prepare your system for a period of heavy use. Following these simple HVAC maintenance tips can help ensure efficient operation throughout the winter.
1. Change air filters
Before you even test your heating system, make sure your furnace air filters are clean. When they become clogged with dirt, dust, and debris, filters can put extra pressure on your entire heating system. Operating efficiency can be reduced by up to 15 percent, which means higher energy bills. Regularly emptying and replacing filters can also remove environmental allergens from the air before they reach people with asthma and allergies. According to most HVAC experts, air filters should be changed every two to three months to maintain optimal efficiency.
2. Check the thermostat settings
The purpose of your HVAC system is to keep you comfortable with air conditioning. When using heat, the recommended winter setting is 68 degrees Fahrenheit (room temperature). In this configuration, the interior environment must be comfortable for the majority of the occupants. If you want to turn it up higher, it’s important to note that each degree above room temperature will add one to two percent to your energy bill. On the other hand, if you turn down the temperature while you’re away, you can save about the same amount.
3. Examine the ducts
According to a recent report from the US Department of Energy, the average home loses 20 to 30 percent of the air moving through its ductwork due to holes, leaks, and poorly connected parts. But with a little patience and a good ear, homeowners can hear any air that may be escaping from the ductwork. Once identified, minor problems can often be addressed by a professional at low cost. It is also highly recommended that you have your ductwork inspected for problems with a pressure test by the same professional every few years.
4. Clear the vents
A common problem in centrally heated homes is that the vents often become clogged with dust and pet hair after months of inactivity. Cleaning these areas should not only improve overall operational efficiency, but also reduce the amount of dust, debris, and allergens circulating through your home. For those with radiators or baseboard systems, it’s important to keep the heating elements clear. Blocking them with furniture or other objects will prevent the air conditioner from circulating throughout the area.
5. Get a tune-up
Do you want total peace of mind? Scheduling an HVAC tune-up is the best way to ensure optimum performance throughout the winter season. In addition to adjusting and cleaning your oven, the home service professional will make sure all parts are in tip-top condition. If small problems are discovered, they can be fixed before they become major and costly problems.
Follow these simple HVAC maintenance tips to ensure reliable and efficient operation of your home heating system.
