As the weather starts to cool down and you face the prospect of heading into another winter season, it’s time to begin preparing your HVAC system. This preparation will ensure that your heating system works efficiently and is less likely to break down unexpectedly.
Program Your Thermostat
When you’re ready to switch over to heating your home for the winter, you’ll need to switch your thermostat from cooling to heating mode. Be sure to program in your desired thermostat settings to ensure you can be as efficient as possible with your energy usage.
In addition, consider updating to a smart thermostat. Many models have algorithms that learn your family’s daily routines and will adjust your home’s temperature accordingly. This automation eliminates the arduous task of programming thermostats manually. The apps that come with smart thermostats also allow you to make real-time changes to your HVAC settings from anywhere your phone has internet connectivity. The app can also send you alerts if there is an issue with your system or remind you about the need for maintenance.
Get Professional Maintenance
Professional maintenance is an absolute must. It will help ensure your system is working at its peak efficiency level. Annual tune-ups will also drastically reduce your risk of experiencing an unexpected breakdown and let you know about any potential problems with your system. This way, you have time to address them while they’re relatively small and inexpensive to fix.
Order Fuel Delivery
You have an on-site storage tank if you have a propane or heating oil-powered furnace. Now is the perfect time to call for a fuel delivery so that your tank is full when you need to rely on your heating system. You may even want to consider automatic fuel delivery to eliminate the risk of accidentally running out of fuel.
Check Your Air Vents
If you have a forced-air heating system, each room in your home has a supply and a return vent. All these vents must be completely open to ensure your heating system works correctly. Additionally, you want to ensure each vent is free from any obstructions, like area rugs, drapes, and furniture, that could restrict airflow.
Test Run Your Heating System
It’s highly advisable to give your heating system a test run before the cold winter weather hits. Set your thermostat five degrees higher than the ambient temperature. As you hear your heating system kick on, check each supply vent to ensure it’s producing an adequate amount of hot air. Additionally, listen for any odd noises that your system may make. Lack of airflow or unusual sounds are signs that you should have your heating system inspected by an HVAC professional.
Change Batteries in Detectors
If you have a fuel-burning furnace, there’s always a risk of exhaust fumes getting trapped inside your home. While your system is designed to vent these harmful fumes outdoors, malfunctions can occur, leading to dangerous buildup. To stay protected, ensure your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors function correctly. Now is the perfect time to replace the batteries and test each device. For optimal safety, install both types of detectors on every level of your home and outside each bedroom.
Replace Your Air Filter
The primary purpose of your HVAC system’s air filter is to prevent debris from entering your furnace and damaging its internal components. It also plays a vital role in protecting your home’s indoor air quality by capturing airborne contaminants. However, when an air filter becomes clogged, it reduces airflow through your system, causing it to work harder than necessary. This restriction increases heating costs and causes excessive wear and tear on your furnace.
Experts recommend replacing your filter before and at least every three months during the heating season. However, you may have to replace yours more often due to factors like whether you have pets or how many people live in your home. Many homeowners inspect their HVAC air filter monthly to ensure they know when it needs to be changed out.
Expert Heating Service
At Waterbury Heating & Cooling, Inc., we have served the residents of Sioux Falls, SD and the surrounding areas since 1950. We install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. Additionally, we can help you with all your indoor air quality, plumbing, and electrical needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced team members.
