Winter is coming. (Cue Game of Thrones intro.) While you probably won’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still important to make sure your home is all set for the cold. Here are some tips from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding Air Returns
You won’t need cold air returns in the cold season right? Wrong. Confirm your air returns (the larger vents) are not blocked and that air can flow easily into them. Your cold air returns are needed to help your heating system run efficiently.
Update Your Windows
Windows are a common way that heat can leak out your home, so contemplate upgrading old or inefficient windows to help retain heat inside during the cold months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With sick season nearing, you want to be sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your family healthy. For the well-being of your indoor air, swap out your furnace or duct air filter every few months. This will also help your system 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 ten years, it’s almost certainly not nearly as energy-efficient as updated furnaces. Before the winter hits and you’re stuck with a malfunctioning furnace or high utility bills, think about replacing your system.
Invest in a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not sound right, but more humidity, particularly in northern climates, can cause your home’s air to feel warmer than it actually is. Add the other benefits of decreasing dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier could be the perfect addition to your heating system.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
We say it all the time – a programmable thermostat lowers your energy usage and bills no matter what season it is. A programmable thermostat will allow you to decrease your home temperature while you are out to help reduce heating costs, and raise the temperature before you even arrive home to give you the perfect amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the ideal amount of attic insulation helps keep heat from escaping during the winter, decreasing your energy usage because your heater doesn’t have to run as much, and therefore saves you money by decreasing your energy bills. Ask your local utility companies about rebates for upgrading or installing your attic insulation.
Cover Plumbing
If you insulate your hot water pipes, it can actually help increase the temperature a few degrees. Warmer water on a lower setting? That lowers your energy use and bills – yes, please!
Get a Precision Tune-Up
Be sure your furnace is ready to keep your family warm and comfy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Service Experts. Right now we are providing discounts on our fall tune ups to help make sure your home stays warm and safe through the winter. Call 352-414-4006 today to schedule your heating tune-up or set up a free in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.