It’s the middle of September and Fall is upon us. That means winter is just around the corner. It’s time to get ready for some cool nights that could make a home uncomfortable. Here’s what you need to do to make sure your home heating system is in appropriate shape.
Stock Up on Filters
If you have a forced-air system, such as a heat pump or furnace, the beginning of the season is a smart time to make sure you have plenty of filters. Go to a local factory authorized dealer to make sure the filters you get are properly sized for your system. A good filter improves energy efficiency and reduces wear and tear on the system, so put a clean one in at the beginning of the season and remember to change it monthly. If you do not feel comfort changing your filter, check with your local HVAC contractor. Many of them offer monthly filter change plans.
Inspect Your Unit
As a homeowner, you are your home’s first line of defense against HVAC issues, and many of them can be stopped with a simple inspection. Check the wires going into your heating system to see whether they’re corroded or rusty. Look for dust accumulating on your heat pump’s coils. Search for leaks, airflow issues and any other obvious problems. Detecting those issues now will stop them from becoming big problems later. We know not everyone is savvy with their equipment. Many of you might want to simply reach-out to your local HVAC contractor for scheduled fall maintenance. When you invest in a professional heating maintenance agreement you’ll be able to rest assured that your HVAC systems are in good hands.
During every maintenance visits, HVAC contractors should do all of the following:
- Lubricate moving parts
- Check and tighten electrical and gas connections
- Inspect terminals, gas lines and wires for damage
- Measure airflow to maximize system efficiency and effectiveness
- Calibrate all control systems
- Check and repair leaky or damaged ducts
- Clean the condensate pan and flush the drain
- Inspect the ignition and burner assembly
The upside of this maintenance is savings, both in the short and long term. HVAC contractors will carefully calibrate your system to make sure it’s running at peak efficiency, and that means lower utility bills. Even if it’s only a small difference, those small savings add up.
Most importantly, maintenance helps to protect the future of your system, extending its lifespan and reducing the odds of an expensive repair. Taking those steps now to maintain your heating system won’t just help you save money and live more comfortably; you’ll make a real investment in your quality of life.