Winter is coming. (Signal Game of Thrones theme.) While you may not have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still essential to make sure your home is good to go for the cold. Here are a couple suggestions from Stevenson Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding Air Returns
You won’t need cold air returns in the winter right? Wrong. Verify your air returns (the larger vents) are not obstructed and that air can flow smoothly through them. Your cold air returns are required to help your furnace run efficiently.
Replace Your Windows
Windows are a typical way that heat can seep out your home, so think about upgrading old or inefficient windows to help retain heat inside during the cooler months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With sick season coming soon, you want to be sure you’re doing all you can to keep your family healthy. For the sake of your indoor air, make sure you’re replacing your furnace or duct air filter every 12 weeks. This will also help your equipment run more efficiently and save you energy, which means decreasing your utility bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your system is older than 10 years, it’s probably not nearly as energy-efficient as newer furnaces. Before the cold hits and you’re stuck with a malfunctioning furnace or high utility bills, discuss replacing your system.
Invest in a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not seem logical, but more humidity, especially in northern climates, can result in your home’s air feeling warmer than it is. Add the other benefits of reducing dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier may be the ideal addition to your HVAC system.
Get a Programmable Thermostat
We say it all the time – a programmable thermostat lowers your energy usage and bills no matter what temperature it is. A programmable thermostat will let you lower your home temperature while you are at work to help lower heating costs, and raise the temperature before you even arrive home to provide the right amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the correct amount of attic insulation helps retain heat during the winter, decreasing your energy usage because your heating system doesn’t have to run as much, and therefore saves you money by decreasing your energy bills. Ask your local utility companies about rebates on installing or upgrading your home’s insulation.
Insulate Plumbing
If you insulate your hot water pipes, it can actually help raise the temperature two or three degrees. Hotter water on a cooler setting? That saves you energy and money – yes, please!
Get a Heating Tune-Up
Be sure your heating system is ready to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Stevenson Service Experts. Currently we are giving discounts on our fall tune ups to help make sure your family stays warm and safe through the winter. Call 614-334-3192 today to schedule your Precision tune-up or set up a no-charge in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating system.