It’s good practice to prepare the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system for the cold season well before the chilly temperatures set in. No one wants to wake up to a frigid morning only to find that their HVAC system doesn’t work. With that in mind, here are eight tips to make sure an HVAC unit is ready for winter.
Change the Air Filters
This procedure is so simple to do that many people overlook it. Filters that are allowed to become filthy stress the HVAC system and can even shorten its life. It’s a good idea to replace an air filter every month or so or more often if there’s a smoker or pets in the home.
Make Sure the Thermostat Works
Sometimes what looks like a huge problem for the HVAC system is simply a thermostat that’s not working the way it should. A professional should be called in to repair a broken thermostat. When it does work, the thermostat might be set a bit cooler than the homeowner would like to save on energy bills.
Have a Professional Inspect the HVAC System
Having an HVAC professional check the overall HVAC system is indispensable. These professionals can find and troubleshoot problems that a layperson can’t. Some HVAC companies offer their customers a service where the professional automatically checks the system twice a year, once for the cooling season and once for the heating season.
Make Sure Vents and Registers Are Clear
Registers and vents make sure that warm or cooled air can circulate freely. A homeowner should make sure that the vents are not covered by furniture or other objects and that they’re vacuumed at the same time the rest of the room is vacuumed. Vents should even be left clear in rooms that aren’t being used during the winter. This ensures that air flows properly throughout the rest of the house.
Seal All Leaks
Air leaks need to be sealed, whether they’re found in doors and windows or in the ductwork. Leaks, like dirty filters, make the HVAC system work harder. Also if the attic, crawlspace, or spaces behind walls aren’t insulated, they should be. A homeowner can hire a professional to leak-proof their home.
Be Mindful of Weird Smells and Noises
Odd noises and smells are signs that something is the matter with the HVAC system. Because most homeowners can’t tell what that bang or squeal or growl or rattle means, diagnosing noises and smells is another job for an HVAC professional.
Consider an HVAC Upgrade Before the Cold Weather
A homeowner might also want to consider installing a new HVAC system if the one they have is over 10 years old. It’s true that an entirely new system can be expensive, but the cost of constantly repairing an old system when it breaks down may turn out to be even more expensive.
Cover the AC Condenser
If a homeowner has an outdoor AC condenser unit, they should cover it up for the winter. This prevents vermin and debris from entering it.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
