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 crucial to make sure your home is all set for the cold. Here are some tips 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. Make sure your air returns (the more sizable vents) are not blocked and that air can easily flow through them. Your cold air returns are necessary to help your heating system run efficiently.
Update Your Windows
Windows are a typical way that heat can leak out your home, so consider updating old or inefficient windows to help keep heat inside during the cold months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With cold and flu season nearing, you want to verify you’re doing all you can to keep your family in good health. For the sake of your indoor air, replace your furnace or duct air filter every 12 weeks. This will also help your equipment run more efficiently and save you energy, which means lowering your utility bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your heating equipment is older than 10 years, it’s probably not nearly as energy-efficient as updated heating systems. Before the cooler temperature hits and you’re stuck with a failing furnace or high heating bills, think about investing in an upgraded system.
Invest in a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not seem logical, but increased humidity, especially in northern climates, can result in your home’s air feeling warmer than it is. Joined with the other benefits of less dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier could be the perfect addition to your HVAC system.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
We say it all the time – a programmable thermostat decreases your energy use and bills no matter what temperature it is. A programmable thermostat will enable you to decrease your home temperature while you are at work to help lower heating costs, and increase the temperature before you even make it home to provide the ideal amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the ideal amount of attic insulation helps keep heat from escaping during the winter, saving you energy because your heater doesn’t have to work as hard, and therefore saves you money on heating bill. Ask your local utility companies about rebates for installing or upgrading your attic insulation.
Cover Plumbing
If you insulate your hot water pipes, it can actually help raise the temperature two or three degrees. Warmer water on a decreased setting? That decreases your energy usage and your energy bills – yes, please!
Get a Precision Tune-Up
Make sure your heater is ready to keep your home warm and cozy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Service Experts. Currently we are offering discounts on our fall tune ups to help make sure your home stays warm and safe all winter long. Call 925-364-5427 today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or set up a no-charge in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating system.