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 some suggestions from Abbey Air Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding Air Returns
You shouldn’t need cold air returns in the cold season right? Wrong. Verify your air returns (the bigger vents) are not restricted and that air can easily flow through them. Your cold air returns are needed to help your heating equipment run efficiently.
Replace Your Windows
Windows are a common way that heat can get out of your home, so think about replacing old or inefficient windows to help keep heat inside during the winter months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With allergy and cold season coming soon, you want to make sure you’re doing all you can to keep your family in good health. For the well-being of your indoor air, swap out your furnace or duct air filter every three months. This will also help your equipment run more efficiently and save you energy, which means saving you money on utility bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your heating equipment is older than ten years, it’s almost certainly not nearly as energy-efficient as newer equipment. Before the winter hits and you’re stuck with a faulty furnace or high energy bills, think about upgrading your system.
Buy a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not make sense when you hear it, but more humidity, especially in northern climates, can result in your home’s air feeling warmer than it is. Add the other benefits of reducing dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier could be the perfect addition to your heat and air system.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
We can’t say it enough – a programmable thermostat lowers your energy usage and bills no matter what time of year it is. A programmable thermostat will allow you to lower your home temperature while you are away to help decrease heating costs, and increase the temperature before you even arrive home to give you the perfect amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the right amount of attic insulation helps keep heat from escaping during the winter, decreasing your energy usage because your heating system doesn’t have to operate as much, and therefore saves you money on heating bill. Ask your local utility companies about rebates on installing or upgrading your home’s insulation.
Cover Plumbing
If you insulate your hot water pipes, it can actually help raise the temperature a couple of degrees. Hotter water on a lower setting? That saves you energy and money – yes, please!
Get a Furnace Tune-Up
Make sure your furnace is ready to keep your family warm and comfortable all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Abbey Air Service Experts. Currently we are offering discounts on our heating tune ups to help make sure your family stays warm and safe through the cold months. Call 289-813-5566 today to schedule your Precision tune-up or set up a no-charge in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.
