It’s time to prepare your HVAC system and home for the rapidly approaching winter season. Before the temperature gets too low, you’ll want to make sure your HVAC system like your furnace or heat pump can make it through the coming months. Professional maintenance is key this time of year to get your HVAC systems ready. You can also keep these helpful, energy-saving tips in mind when securing your home.
Test Your Heating
The best way to make sure your heating system is still working is to test it a handful of times before your home needs it. In the early to mid-autumn, set your thermostat to your normal winter temperature and allow your system to complete a full cycle. This will show you if the furnace or heat pump is emitting unpleasant odors or noises. You’ll also be able to determine if it can still meet your family’s comfort needs.
Fall is a great time to determine if you need a replacement. If your system is more than 15 years old and takes longer than normal to reach your set temperature, it may no longer be the best fit for your home this winter. You can instead invest in a high-efficiency HVAC system that will lower your utility costs, boost your comfort and improve your property value.
Change Air Filters
Your HVAC air filters need to be changed every one to three months to maintain healthy air quality. One of the most common issues with heating systems is a clogged filter. When this layer of protection fills up with debris, it will impede airflow into the system. This problem quickly tanks efficiency and can cause overheating that trips your circuit breaker.
The least expensive fiberglass filters, which you can often purchase at grocery or home improvement stores, typically need to be switched every month. Cotton or polyester pleated varieties may last up to three months depending on your household and HVAC use. For example, if you have pets, respiratory health needs or live with several family members, you may need to replace your filters more regularly. At the very least, it’s ideal to put in a new one at the start of a season to remove old contaminants from your air supply.
Schedule Seasonal HVAC Tune-Up
The best time to schedule your HVAC care is during the shoulder seasons like spring and fall when your heating and cooling use is low. These annual check-ups include wiping away accumulated debris, lubricating moving parts and surveying the system’s safety features. Preventative tune-ups keep your furnace, heat pump and air conditioner in peak condition. Additionally, minimizing system wear and tear over the years will have a positive impact on your energy consumption, air quality and the equipment’s lifespan.
Many HVAC companies offer maintenance plans that come with one tune-up per system a year. They also typically provide benefits like discounted repairs, priority service and service reminders. Establishing a relationship with a trustworthy HVAC system in your area guarantees you have access to reliable technicians when you need them most.
Consider a Thermostat Upgrade
Don’t forget to consider boosting your indoor comfort with a new thermostat. These devices can last around 10 years before their parts begin to impact their ability to accurately communicate with your HVAC system. A faulty thermostat may tell your furnace to run more frequently than necessary or never at all. The constant fluctuations can significantly increase your costs as well as the strain on your system.
With a new thermostat, you could have access to modern features like room sensing, schedule learning and internet connectivity. Wi-Fi thermostats, in particular, allow you to change your settings and monitor your energy consumption from the comfort of your phone. By offering advanced programming options, these devices will minimize energy wastefulness when you’re sleeping or not at home.
Create Home Climate Zones
It’s not uncommon for two-story homes to struggle with too-warm upstairs and freezing downstairs. This occurs because the thermostat is located on the first floor and can’t read how much heat is rising to the second floor. The furnace may kick on constantly to heat the home when your bedrooms are already overwhelmingly hot. An easy fix to this issue is to consider installing an HVAC zoning system.
Creating climate zones, like one upstairs and another downstairs, allows you to control their temperatures separately. Utilizing smart-controlled, HVAC dampers will direct where your heated air goes. Instead of pushing more upstairs, you can change your settings to better warm your first-floor rooms. A programmable thermostat, unlike an outdated manual option, will improve your control of your zones and comfort.
Winterize Outdoor AC Unit
Along with preparing your heating system, you should also winterize your outside AC box. If you only use a heat pump, this step may not be necessary. However, for those with air conditioners or other systems not used during the cold season, you can first thoroughly hose them down. Remove old debris from both around and inside the unit. This can include twigs, gravel, nests, leaves and other litter that may harm the delicate fins or internal wiring.
Push back any nearby foliage to prevent it from leaning its weight on the AC. Even if you live in an area with minimal to no snowfall, a cover can still help you deter pests and protect the system from general wear and tear. If the system is older than 10 years, it may also be helpful to schedule a quick tune-up. Older systems require more care than modern units, and calling a professional can ensure there’s no new damage that may worsen during months of disuse.
Check Windows and Insulation
Finally, stop drafts and heat leakage by examining your window and door seals. You may need to add new weather strips or caulking to prevent your warm air from being wasted. Don’t forget that a secure, well-insulated home is an energy-efficient home. Lackluster insulation will make it harder for your heating system to keep your family warm.
Keep in mind that constant drafts typically impact the bottom floor first. If necessary, you can invest in energy-efficient, thermal curtains or blinds. The best way to determine the source of your energy waste is with an expert home inspection. Taking the time to get your home ready before winter starts will ensure you don’t have to face unexpected heating or comfort emergencies once the temperature drops to freezing.
Newbury Park Heating and Cooling
At Southland Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re thrilled to offer comprehensive, award-winning HVAC services in Newbury Park, CA and the surrounding areas. We’re a BBB-accredited company. Our skilled technicians never cut corners or add hidden fees to your costs. We’re dedicated to your comfort and satisfaction and promise free estimates with every job. Come to us to maintain or repair your air conditioner, heat pump, ductless system or furnace. We can also install a new HVAC unit from top brands like Lennox, Mitsubishi or Trane. Other services we offer include whole-house fans and efficient air quality solutions. Schedule your HVAC service today.
