Winter is coming. (Signal Game of Thrones intro.) While you probably won’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still critical to make sure your home is all set for the cold. Here are a couple suggestions from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding Air Returns
You shouldn’t need cold air returns in the cold season right? Wrong. Make sure your air returns (the larger vents) are not blocked and that air can flow smoothly through them. Your cold air returns are necessary to help your furnace run efficiently.
Upgrade Your Windows
Windows are a usual way that heat can leak out your home, so think about replacing old or inefficient windows to help trap heat inside during the cooler months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With allergy and cold season coming soon, you want to verify you’re doing all you can to keep your family healthy. For the well-being of your indoor air, swap out your furnace or duct air filter every quarter. This will also help your furnace run more efficiently and save you energy, which means decreasing your heating bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your system is older than ten years, it’s probably not nearly as energy-efficient as updated equipment. Before the winter hits and you’re stuck with a failing furnace or high heating bills, consider upgrading your system.
Invest in a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not seem logical, but more humidity, more so in northern climates, can result in your home’s air feeling warmer than it is. Add the other benefits of less dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier might be the ultimate addition to your heating system.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
We say it all the time – a programmable thermostat saves you energy and money no matter what season it is. A programmable thermostat will allow you to turn down your home temperature while you are away to help reduce heating costs, and raise the temperature before you even arrive home to provide the ideal amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the right amount of attic insulation helps keep heat from escaping during the winter, lowering your energy use because your heater doesn’t have to run as much, and therefore saves you money by lowering your heating costs. Inquire with your local utility companies about rebates on installing or upgrading your home’s insulation.
Cover Plumbing
If you insulate your hot water pipes, it can actually help increase the temperature a couple of degrees. Hot water on a lower setting? That decreases your energy usage and your energy bills – yes, please!
Get a Precision Tune-Up
Make sure your heating system is ready to keep your family warm and comfy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Service Experts. Currently we are offering discounts on our seasonal tune ups to help make sure you stay warm and safe through the cold months. Call 954-736-4314 today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or set up a no-charge in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.