Winter is coming. (Cue Game of Thrones theme.) While you probably won’t 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 Home Services by Enercare to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding Air Returns
You shouldn’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 needed to help your heating equipment run efficiently.
Update Your Windows
Windows are a common way that heat can leak out your home, so consider replacing old or inefficient windows to help trap heat inside during the winter months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With allergy and cold season quickly approaching, you want to make sure you’re doing everything 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 10 years, it’s almost certainly not nearly as energy-efficient as updated equipment. Before the cold hits and you’re stuck with a faulty furnace or high energy bills, consider replacing 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.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – a programmable thermostat lowers your energy usage and bills no matter what time of year it is. A programmable thermostat will let you lower your home temperature while you are out to help decrease heating costs, and turn up the temperature before you even get home to provide the right amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the right amount of attic insulation helps retain heat during the winter, saving you energy because your heating system doesn’t have to operate as much, and therefore saves you money on heating bill. Check with your local utility companies about rebates for upgrading or installing your attic insulation.
Cover Plumbing
Insulating your hot water pipes can actually help increase the temperature a couple of degrees. Hotter water on a cooler setting? That saves you energy and money – yes, please!
Get a Precision 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 . Right now we are offering discounts on our seasonal tune ups to help make sure you stay warm and safe all winter long. Call 289-813-5566 today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or set up a no-charge in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.