Winter is coming. (In comes 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 good to go for the cold. Here are a couple suggestions from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding Air Returns
You don’t need cold air returns in the cooler months right? Wrong. Verify your air returns (the larger vents) are not blocked and that air can easily flow through them. Your cold air returns are required to help your heating system run efficiently.
Upgrade Your Windows
Windows are a common way that heat can get out of your home, so think about replacing 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 verify you’re doing anything you can to keep your family from falling ill. For the health of your indoor air, swap out your furnace or duct air filter every few months. This will also help your furnace run more efficiently and save you energy, which means lowering your heating bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your system is older than 10 years, it’s most likely not nearly as energy-efficient as updated heating systems. Before the winter hits and you’re stuck with a malfunctioning furnace or high energy bills, consider upgrading your system.
Buy a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not sound right, but increased humidity, particularly 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 may be the ultimate addition to your heating system.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
We can’t say it enough – a programmable thermostat saves you energy and money no matter what season it is. A programmable thermostat will let you turn down your home temperature while you are away to help decrease heating costs, and turn up the temperature before you even make it home to yield the ideal amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the right amount of attic insulation helps trap heat in your home during the winter, lowering your energy use because your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard, and therefore saves you money by decreasing your energy bills. Inquire with your local utility companies about rebates for installing or upgrading your attic insulation.
Insulate Plumbing
Insulating your hot water pipes can actually help boost the temperature a few degrees. Warmer water on a lower setting? That lowers your energy use and bills – yes, please!
Get a Heating Tune-Up
Verify your heater is ready to keep your family warm and cozy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Service Experts. Right now we are offering discounts on our heating tune ups to help make sure you stay warm and safe through the cold months. Call 866-397-3787 today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or set up a complimentary in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.