How to Prepare Your HVAC for the Winter

It’s that time of year where the cold and snow become a regular part of your day. That means it’s also time to prepare your HVAC system for the winter ahead to ensure it stays in tiptop shape. If you don’t properly prepare your HVAC system for these cold months, it’ll struggle to keep you warm for the winter and possibly fail to keep you cool when summer comes back around.

Here are 10 ways to get your HVAC system ready for winter.

Schedule a Tune-Up

During summer and winter, it’s easy to forget about at least one part of your HVAC system. That’s why it’s highly recommended to schedule an all-around tune-up for your entire HVAC system to ensure everything is working as it should. This reduces the likelihood of your HVAC system failing in the middle of winter, when you need it most.

Change Out Your Air Filters

One of the most important parts of prepping your HVAC system for winter is making sure to replace your air filters. This is a crucial step in preventative maintenance, as dirty filters cause your HVAC system to overwork, ultimately increasing your energy bill while decreasing its output. Clean filters allow your HVAC system to run smoothly without using more energy than necessary to heat your home.

Consider Getting a Smart Thermostat

This tip is a surefire way to save you money on monthly energy bills. Most older thermostats use mercury, which can be inaccurate. This can lead to your heating system doing more work than necessary or not enough work to warm up your home. On the contrary, a programmable – or smart – thermostat can learn your preferred temperatures and acclimate accordingly, saving you time and money.

Reset/Reprogram Your Thermostat

Having a smart thermostat can help save you money in the long run, but you’ll still need to reprogram it for the coming season. This is to ensure your home never goes below a certain temperature while you’re away, but not so low that you need a space heater while you wait for your home to heat up again.

Check For Unusual Sounds/Noises

If your HVAC is making odd noises, it can indicate that something may be wrong. Noises can result from dirty air filters, faulty parts, electrical wiring issues, and more. If left unattended, it can lead to your HVAC system needing costly repairs. Hire a professional to handle these possible causes.

Look For Signs of Moisture

The accumulation of moisture, rust, or dirt on windows and/or vent pipes can indicate that your HVAC system isn’t working properly. Excess moisture can overwhelm your HVAC’s drainage system and eventually damage your home. 

Insulate Pipes

When your AC unit is turned off for long periods – like for the duration of winter – the lack of airflow blowing through the evaporator coils can cause them to freeze. Insulating your HVAC system’s pipes can significantly reduce the risk of them freezing when temperatures get extremely low.

Maintain Your Oil Levels

If your heating unit uses an oil tank, you’ll want to make sure you have enough to last through the winter. That’s because you never know when a serious snowstorm will hit, and if one does, there’s no telling when you’ll be able to replenish it.

Inspect Your Doors and Windows

If you’re looking for a way to reduce your energy bills and make it more comfortable inside, you can’t forget about air leaks! Check your doors and windows for faulty seals to prevent drafts and debris from entering your home, effectively wasting energy.

Keep Vents Clear of Other Obstructions

Another way to prep your HVAC system for the winter is to make sure the vents are clear of any debris. You’ll want to steer clear of obstructing your vents when moving furniture around, too. An obstructed vent can be extremely dangerous, as it could lead to carbon monoxide buildup in your home and cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

For further assistance in getting your HVAC system prepped for the winter months, call a professional to cover all your bases. Our technicians are highly trained to deliver any HVAC service you need.

Contact us online or call (866) 992-1717 to schedule a service.