fireplace heating when your hvac heating is broken

How to Avoid a Broken Heater This Winter | HVAC Heating

Winter weather has slowly been creeping in, and that means your cold home is going to need the help of a heater! We have a few tips you can follow to keep your HVAC heating your home and avoid a broken heater this season.

Change Your Filter(s)

This should be done monthly (or, if you have a system that uses thicker filters, up to every 3 months) to keep your system running as efficiently as possible. It’s even more important to change your filters for a new season – you always want to start with what is essentially a “clean slate.” Your filters help your system breathe better, and when you’re turning on a component for the first time in more than 6 months, you want as much airflow as possible to lighten the workload on your system.

Have Your Ducts Cleaned

Similar to changing your filters, having your ducts cleaned can help ease the load on your system and improve your home’s air quality. Your ducts can be a breeding ground for mold and other undesirables, and the last thing you want is to circulate it throughout your home! If you can’t remember when your ducts were last cleaned, give us a call. We’re happy to come out and take a look, and if you don’t need it, we won’t do it!

Check Your Exterior Vents

It’s important to check the exterior vents of your home to ensure they’re clear of debris or other blockages. Sometimes people will store things against the exterior of their home, inadvertently blocking the intake and/or exhaust vents. It’s also a good idea to make sure that no critters have made their way into the vents – warmer spots will always attract little animals trying to escape the cold. Save yourself from a broken heater and keep these areas clear!

Test Out Your Thermostat (And Think About Upgrading!)

Before you really need to crank up your heat this winter, make sure that when you adjust your thermostat, your system responds accordingly. This would also be a great time to look at upgrading to a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats give you the utmost control over your home’s climate while maximizing efficiency. Needless to say, we’re big fans!

Check Your Interior Vents

Your heating needs in winter are different from your cooling needs in summer, so make sure your vents are open or closed as you prefer. While checking, look for any buildup or strange sounds or smells. If you notice anything unusual, don’t turn on your heat and call a professional.

Check Your Weatherproofing

What good is heating your entire home if that warm air isn’t staying inside? Weatherstripping on your doors and windows is extremely important for insulating your home. It’s always a great idea to go through your home and check all your weatherproofing and feel for drafts. Insulating your home effectively will help your system run more efficiently, saving you money each month.

Schedule a Routine Maintenance Appointment

When was the last time your system was professionally serviced? Your HVAC heating system is just like your car – it’s a major investment that should last at least 10 years, and you should treat it as such! Your system should be serviced biannually, and if you have been slacking, it’s best to have a technician come out and give it a check-up before you have to turn on your heat for the first time. This is the most important thing you can do to prevent a broken heater–protect your investment and give us a call!

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