Winter is coming. (Signal Game of Thrones theme.) While you may not 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 Comfortech Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Around Air Returns
You won’t need cold air returns in the winter right? Wrong. Verify your air returns (the larger vents) are not restricted and that air can easily flow through them. Your cold air returns are required to help your heating equipment run efficiently.
Replace Your Windows
Windows are a common way that heat can leak out your home, so think about upgrading old or inefficient windows to help trap heat inside during the cold months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With allergy and cold season nearing, you want to make sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your family from falling ill. For the sake of your indoor air, replace your furnace or duct air filter every few months. This will also help your system run more efficiently and save you energy, which means lowering your utility bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your furnace is older than ten years, it’s most likely not nearly as energy-efficient as newer furnaces. Before the cold hits and you’re stuck with a failing furnace or high energy bills, consider upgrading your system.
Invest in a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not sound right, but more humidity, especially in northern climates, can make your home’s air feel warmer than it is. Include the other benefits of reducing dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier could be the ideal addition to your heating system.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – a programmable thermostat saves you energy and money no matter what temperature it is. A programmable thermostat will allow you to lower your home temperature while you are out to help reduce heating costs, and increase the temperature before you even get home to yield the right amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the correct amount of attic insulation helps retain heat during the winter, decreasing your energy usage because your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard, and therefore saves you money by decreasing your energy bills. Check with your local utility companies about rebates on installing or upgrading your home’s insulation.
Cover Plumbing
By insulating your plumbing pipes, especially hot water pipes, you can actually help increase the temperature a few degrees. Hot water on a cooler setting? That decreases your energy usage and your energy bills – yes, please!
Get a Heating Tune-Up
Make sure your heating system is ready to keep you warm and cozy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Comfortech . This month we are providing discounts on our seasonal tune ups to help make sure you stay warm and safe through the cold months. Call 601-852-3105 today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or set up a complimentary in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient HVAC system.