Easy tips to Winterize your Home and HVAC System

As the leaves start to fall and the air becomes crisper, it’s time to start thinking ahead and preparing for the colder months ahead. This includes making the switch from air conditioning to your heating system. 

Taking care of your home means taking care of your comfort and happiness too. By taking these easy tips into consideration, your home will be ready to take on the colder months ahead without fail. 

Why does HVAC maintenance matter?

According to the Department of Energy, heating and cooling accounts for about 48% of the total energy used in a standard home, making it easily the largest energy expense. If there were ways to limit this percentage and reduce your electric bill, wouldn’t you partake? By performing general maintenance on your HVAC system you are:

• Preventing damage to the HVAC system
• Reducing your energy usage by keeping the system running efficiently
• Keeping your entire home safe from air pollutants

How to Prepare for the Winter Months

Keeping your house warm should feel effortless, but without practicing these few simple steps you’ll be in for a headache down the road. 

• Tighten up our Home: by making sure windows are sealed, door cracks are covered, and weatherstripping is in place, you’ll protect your home with insulation before even turning on your heating system. 
• Change your Air Filter: Replacing a dirty air filter can lower your energy consumption by 5% to 15%. 
• Cover your HVAC Unit: By covering your unit, you’ll be protecting it from the ruthless winter weather so it can continue working on the coldest days, just make sure you aren’t restricting air flow.
• Reprogram the thermostat: Check and reset your desired temperatures as the season changes, and switch from cooling to heating. By investing in a programmable or smart thermostat, you’ll be able to automatically lower the temperature when you’re not home to save energy and money. 
• Consider Replacing Your System: The standard lifespan of an HVAC system varies, but typically range from 10-15 years if taken care of properly. It may seem costly, but by replacing a unit, you’re investing in a more cost and energy efficient system.

Call a professional HVAC technician: Just like bringing your car in for a routine inspection, it’s always wise to bring an HVAC technician in to address any problems, spearhead possible issues, or even to replace an outdated system with a new one. By investing in a trusted technician, you’ll save money in the long run, ensure your home is always comfortable, and improve your energy efficiency.