Replacing your HVAC unit can cost up to $10,000 for a residential system. Because an HVAC system is so frequently used by homeowners, it can quickly wear out if it doesn’t have the right maintenance.
In addition to regular HVAC maintenance, you also need to prepare your HVAC for the changing seasons. This will ensure that it runs smoothly and will help you avoid unnecessary repairs to your system.
Do you want to learn how to get your HVAC system ready for winter in Kingwood, TX? Keep reading this guide for the top steps you should take for winter maintenance of your HVAC.
Switch Out the Filters
Changing the air filters is one of the first things you should do to prepare your HVAC system for winter. Most professionals recommend that you change your air filters every three to six months.
Air filters in your furnace clean the air and collect dust and other contaminants. This way, they will not be circulated throughout your home and breathed in.
Because this debris gets trapped in the filters, it can start to block the airflow of your furnace if you do not change the filters regularly. This will force your heater to work harder to heat your house and may result in more frequent repairs.
Not only will changing out your air filters help your system work more efficiently, but it will also improve your indoor air quality.
Clean Out Air Vents and Ducts
Dust and dirt can also accumulate in your air vents and ducts, even if you regularly change your air filters. You should clean out your air vents and ducts to prevent blockages in your vents and to improve the airflow.
This can greatly reduce the allergens in your home and can prevent respiratory problems when you use your furnace.
If you need help cleaning out your vents and ducts, you may be able to find a professional company to help with “heating near me.”
Do a Test Run
Doing a test run of your furnace is an important part of winter preparation for your HVAC. The last thing you want is for your heater to need repairs during a cold snap. Testing your heater a few times before the heating season starts will make it easy to identify issues with your furnace!
This way, you can schedule furnace repairs and have your system up and running before you actually need to use your heater during the winter.
Not only should you test your heater, but you should also test your thermostat. This way, you can see if the issue with your heater is with your HVAC system or simply with your thermostat.
Cover Your Outdoor Unit
Part of your air conditioner is an outdoor condenser unit. While you don’t want this to be covered up while you are using your air conditioner, it needs to be winterized as the weather changes.
This will keep water and ice from getting into the outdoor system and damaging your air conditioner.
Once you have used your air conditioner for the last time in the summer, you can cover the condenser unit with a protective cover or a tarp. Not only will this protect your HVAC system from the elements, but it will also prevent pests from nesting inside.
Add Extra Insulation
If you want to save money on your energy bills during the winter, you may also want to add extra insulation to your home. The better insulated your home is, the less hot air will leak outside.
This will make your home much more efficient and will lower the wear and tear on your HVAC system. Make sure you check your windows and doors for drafts. If you notice air seeping inside, you can replace the weather stripping to block air leaks!
Double Check Safety Features
There are many safety features in your home and on your heater that protect you and your home. While HVAC systems typically run without any issues, there is a chance that they could have a carbon monoxide leak or cause a fire in your home.
Both of these issues could be potentially deadly if not caught in time. Because of this, you should always check safety features like smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they work.
Schedule a Seasonal Inspection
Finally, you can find companies to help with “heating and cooling near me.” They will provide you with a seasonal inspection for your heater to ensure that everything is in good condition.
Not only will they inspect your system, but they will do an AC and heating tune-up. This will allow your heater to run more efficiently throughout the winter months. This type of preventative maintenance will add years to the lifespan of your HVAC system.
If they notice any problems with your HVAC system, they can also help with furnace repair and other types of heating and cooling maintenance.
Need Help Preparing Your HVAC System for Winter?
As a homeowner, preparing your heating system for winter is essential to keep it running smoothly and to extend its lifespan. Following each of these tips will provide you with peace of mind that your heater will keep your home warm all season long.
If you need help preparing your HVAC system for winter, Guy’s AC can help! We offer heating and cooling services in Texas and can help you with your HVAC winter preparation.
Contact us today to learn more about our heating services or to get a furnace estimate.
