As colder temperatures move into your area, you will likely turn to your HVAC system to help you stay warm and comfortable indoors. However, if you want to ensure your unit continues working efficiently this time of year, it is time to invest in winter HVAC maintenance.
You can call the professionals or handle this maintenance on your own. Regardless of which option you choose, you must consider certain things to make sure your unit is ready to perform this winter.
The Air Filters
Ideally, your system’s air filters should be inspected and replaced every six months, and during cooling and heating systems, they must be replaced every two months or more often. If you have pets, changing the air filters more often is necessary to ensure proper air quality.
Registers and Grilles
Like air filters, the registers and grills in your home should be clean and free from any type of obstruction. Be sure to brush the grilles to remove any dirt and dust that may be present. If necessary, remove these and wash and dry them.
If anything is blocking your registers, it can reduce overall efficiency. Be sure nothing is blocking these, such as rugs, carpeting, or furniture.
HVAC System Coils
Both heating and condenser coils need to be clean. If too much dust and dirt accumulate here, it may reduce the system’s efficiency. Depending on the type of HVAC system you have, you may need to invest in professional cleaning services. If this is the situation, be sure to find a company with experience providing this type of seasonal maintenance for the best results.
The Thermostat
Make sure to test your system’s thermostat to make sure it is working properly. If things are not working as they should, some troubleshooting may be necessary. The first step will be to check the contacts and make sure they are clean. It may also be necessary to change the batteries and reset the system.
If you feel air, but it is not warm, try to set the thermostat a few degrees higher and wait several minutes until it feels warm. Once this happens, you can set it back to your preferred temperature.
Additional Non-HVAC Components
Along with the heating and cooling system itself, it is good to check other parts of the home that may impact the HVAC system’s performance. These include drafts in the windows or cracked or deteriorating weatherstripping in the entry doors and windows. With an insulated, airtight enclosure, you can feel confident the heating system is not consuming more energy than necessary.
Call the Professionals for Help
When it comes to preparing your HVAC system for colder weather, there are many factors to consider. Be sure to take the preventative steps here to minimize issues and ensure the system continues to operate efficiently now and for the foreseeable future. Remember, serious issues can arise at any time, so ensuring your system is properly maintained is a must and calling for professional help is beneficial.