Prepping your system for Winter | Your HVAC Winter Checklist
Winter in Texas is a funny thing. It could be sunny and 60 degrees in the morning and 25 with bone-chilling wind in the afternoon. You don’t want to be caught in miserable weather without a fully functioning HVAC system. It’s always better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it! Use this HVAC winter checklist to ensure that you are prepared for the months ahead:
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Replace Your filter(s)
Replacing your filter regularly is at the top of your HVAC winter checklist. It’s always a good idea to regularly replace your filters in accordance with the timetable for your specific system. The change in seasons brings new allergens, not to mention dirty filters can drastically lower the efficiency of your system. When it comes to turning the heat on for the first time, you want to do so with a clean slate.
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Test Your Thermostat
Before turning your heat on for the first time in a long while, it is imperative to test your thermostat. It is important to check that your thermostat is working correctly before you desperately need your home heated in case you need to schedule an appointment to get your system serviced. Look here for information on how to examine your thermostat.
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Check Vents / Ductwork
Leaks within your vents and ductwork mean lower efficiency and your system has to work harder and dirty vents are a major fire hazard. Make sure that your vents are clean and clear of obstruction. If you are not comfortable checking your ductwork, give us a call.
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Check Unit Outside, Clear Debris and Keep Clean and Clear
The outside unit of your home should be kept clear of debris and foliage. If your condensing unit is crowded by shrubbery, garbage, or anything else, it will restrict the air flow across the condensing coil. This will drive up your electric bill AND shorten the life of your HVAC system. The general rule is to allow 1 to 3 feet of open horizontal space next to intake grilles.
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Replace Batteries In / Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon Monoxide levels are not something to be left to chance. Change the batteries in your detectors and make sure that they are working correctly before turning your heat on for the fall and winter. This might be the most important item on this HVAC winter checklist as it could save your life.
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Check Insulation Status of Windows/Doors, Feel for Drafts Throughout Your Home
While a draft may seem like a minor inconvenience, it could be costing you a substantial amount of money in the long run. The more warm air that is allowed to escape from your home (or the cold air let in) causes your system to work harder. If you have spots in your home with poor insulation (windows are often the culprit,) it may be in your best interest to look into home improvements that will save you from higher monthly electric bills.
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Schedule a Preventative Maintenance Appointment
Preventative maintenance is extremely important for both your checkbook and HVAC system. It’s always better to make sure your system is in top shape, and if anything needs to be adjusted or replaced, for that to be addressed promptly before it turns into an emergency. An HVAC system that is not operating at 100% is going to do a poor job of heating your home and cost you a fortune in electricity. No one wants to have their system go out when they need it most, schedule a maintenance appointment before it becomes an emergency.
When the winter winds finally make their way to Texas, you don’t want to be stuck without heat. Use this HVAC winter checklist to make sure that you are prepared for the change of seasons and that your system is operating at max efficiency. If you have any questions about your system, scheduling a maintenance appointment, or your options when it comes to upgrading, drop us a line. We’re happy to help!
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