How To Prepare Your HVAC Unit For Winter Season
If you want to stay warm and toasty during the cold season, you need to make sure your HVAC unit is prepared and ready for winter. You do not want it clunking out on you in the middle of a very cold winter night.
To make sure that the performance of your heating system will not be compromised when you need it the most, here are the important tips that will help you prepare it for the winter months.
Change the air filters regularly. The general rule is to change the filter every month. This will ensure that the dirt that is trapped in the filter will not circulate the room. That way you can be assured that only clean air goes around your home.
Test the thermostat. When it is cool, try to turn the heat up to test if your HVAC unit can reach your “winter temperature.” You will know there is a problem if it does not reach that temperature or it takes a long time to do so. You want to have it fixed before the full force of the cold season kicks in.
Think about installing a programmable thermostat. If you have to get your thermostat fixed, you might want to consider having a programmable thermostat installed instead. This will allow you to preset the temp at various times each day. The great thing about this is that your home will always be the right temperature. Not only that, it can help you save money if you can program your HVAC unit to lower the temp when you are not at home.
Look for areas and parts that need to be cleaned. You have a lot to check. For instance, you need to make sure the AC drain line is not clogged. You should also check the furnace blower compartment (if any) and make sure there are not debris. The air vent should also be checked to ensure that nothing is blocking the clean air. You have to look at both the supply and return air vents. A clean HVAC system can function more efficiently.
Observe for sounds and behavior that is unusual. If you hear a clunking or whirring sound that seems out of the ordinary, you may have a problem with the unit. In case there is water dripping or the unit is blowing air that is unbearably hot, that is also another sign of a problem with the HVAC unit. Call a technician to work on it immediately. Waiting too long might end up costing you more money in repairs and replacement.
Of course, you should look beyond your HVAC unit to make sure that your home is well heated during the winter season. You also have to check the insulation in your home. Any leaks will make your HVAC system work harder than it has to. It will not only compromise the comfort in your home, it also increases the possibility of damage in the unit.
