As we prepare for the onset of winter, with its severe cold and ice storms, and, of course, snow, one thing you’ll be preparing to do very soon is turning on your furnace. The last thing you need is to switch on your heating system and discover problems that prevent you from feeling warm and comfortable in your home.
Before you turn on your HVAC, there are steps you can take to ensure all your living spaces will be evenly heated during the long, harsh winter.
The Department of Energy (DOE), estimates that regular HVAC maintenance can significantly impact your fuel or electricity expenses. What’s more, doing important maintenance on your HVAC system could reduce your energy consumption by 15 percent to as much as 25 percent!
Proper maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your HVAC system. If you aren’t sure where to start, Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning is here to help with tips and recommendations for winterizing your HVAC system.
Why Winterize Your HVAC System?
When you get your HVAC system checked in the fall, you can keep one step ahead of repairs, and catch malfunctions before you need to heavily rely on heating. You also save money by replacing parts before they completely malfunction and cause additional damage to your HVAC system.
What’s more, an HVAC service technician at Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning will ensure your system runs efficiently, saving you significantly on your utility bills. Having a fall mechanical inspection will also get your HVAC system ready to be at optimal performance during the potentially extreme weather of winter.
Tips for Winterizing Your HVAC System
Here are recommendations to get your heating system in tip-top shape for the winter:
Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Your furnace will be forced to run harder if your air filter is clogged or has not been replaced in a long time. Additionally, this could cause your energy bills to soar. Now is the time to replace your filter, at the start of the cooling season.
Clean Air Vents
When you vacuum your home, plan also on vacuuming your HVAC air vents. Doing so prevents blockages and keeps your indoor air fresh and clean. If you observe buildup on your air vents, you might schedule air duct cleaning with Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning.
Add Insulation
There is nothing more important when it comes to heating efficiency than having proper insulation in your home. Check to see that there is sufficient insulation in the attic, for example. If you are unsure about how much insulation is necessary, feel free to contact one of our field service technicians at Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning.
Use Smart Thermostat to Control Heat Settings
A smart thermostat is pivotal to energy savings as much during the winter season as it is in summer. In order to realize the most energy savings, Energy Saver suggests setting your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit this winter when you are home. Then lower the temperature 10 degrees to 12 degrees at night or when you are away from home.
Create Climate Zones to Avoid Uneven Heating in Your Home
We know that heat rises and cold air collects on the ground level. This is why your upstairs will likely feel warmer than downstairs. You can prevent this disparity in temperatures by creating climate zones. Try closing a few vents upstairs, forcing the heating system to funnel more warm air to the downstairs.
Clean Your Registers and Air Returns
After a season of long hard use, it is easy for dust to accumulate around your vents and registers. You don’t want your HVAC system to have to work harder than it is designed to because of dust build up. Remove grilles and floor registers, and wipe around the opening to clean your ducts. Afterward, clean the vents before putting them back in place. Taking these measures makes your indoor air cleaner and less polluted with allergens.
Cover the Outdoor AC Unit
Cover your outdoor AC unit once you are sure you will not be using it again for the season. Consider purchasing an outdoor unit cover, as it will help protect the AC unit from ice and snow, as well as prevent debris buildup.
Preparing your HVAC for winter? Read more from Apollo on How to Protect your HVAC System from Snow and Ice this Winter.
Keep Your Furnace in Optimal Condition by Looking to Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning for Expert Service
Now is the time to winterize your HVAC as winter is quickly approaching. Our service technicians at Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning will come to your home or place of business and examine your heating system and identify areas of wear and tear that need to be addressed.
Look to the HVAC experts at Apollo to ensure your energy system is in excellent condition for the winter season. We are committed to delivering premium quality HVAC service, maintenance, products, and documentation in Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and beyond! Learn more by contacting Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning! Call us at (509) 396-COLD (2653).
