5 Key Questions to Ask When Preparing HVAC Systems for Winter

By Brian Sodoma, for Service Experts

With autumn coming soon, homeowners will soon be preparing for the cold months ahead. Cold weather puts new demands on your heating system. To prepare your heating unit for the heavy work it will soon be taking on, regular HVAC maintenance should be on your fall to-do list. It’s crucial for your system to operate efficiently in order to reduce the probability of repairs at an undesirable or unsafe time, such as during a storm. Here, a skilled specialist from Service Experts shares five questions to ask yourself to see if you’re ready.

1. When Should I Schedule My Furnace Tune-Up?

Once the cold weather arrives, many businesses prioritize repairs over maintenance requests. Getting your HVAC system tune-up done before the first bite of winter cold assures that it will be ready for the season. It’s also important to look for a contractor who employs qualified technicians, said Mike Carson, manager of technical training and field operations support at Service Experts. To further check into a contractor, ask what’s included in their tune-up. Here are a few must-haves:

• Cleaning burners and ignition components
• Testing safeties
• Inspecting the heat exchanger
• Cleaning and flushing drain lines
• Looking at air filters
• Testing thermostats

2. When Was the Last Time I Changed My Air Filters?

Summer is a busy time, which means it’s easy to forget to swap out your HVAC system’s air filter. Filters trap dust, pet hair and other airborne debris, so replacing a dirty filter with a clean one enhances your system’s operational efficiency and promotes indoor air quality.

“When you don’t replace the filter, the system needs to work harder to pull in air, which can lead to early failure,” Carson said. “Some homeowners will choose a cheap fiberglass filter. They’re less expensive, but pleated filters trap more dust and particles. On the other hand, some can be too thick and restrictive. During your tune-up, ask the technician to suggest which filter is best for your system.”

3. Is My Thermostat Ready for Winter?

Your thermostat is the nerve center of your heating and cooling equipment. It’s a good idea to make sure it’s in proper running order by flipping it from cool to heat mode, setting your heating setpoints, checking your schedule on a programmable thermostat and replacing the batteries if they are drained. At this point, you’ll want to turn it on and listen for any unusual noises or signs the system is struggling to start.

If your equipment is getting older, a smart thermostat is a useful investment. It can save you up to 20% on your yearly electricity bill. Although a programmable thermostat changes settings dependent on the time of day, a smart thermostat also considers your behavior. Most designs can be linked to your smartphone so that changes can be made remotely. For additional safety, more sophisticated smart thermostats may be linked to smoke alarms and be controlled by voice commands, in addition to other useful features.

“A smart thermostat is an inexpensive, but powerful intuitive device for your home,” Carson said. “The learning curve will be long forgotten once you start enjoying the convenience and energy savings it offers.”

4. Do I Have Any Air Leaks?

Looking over your doors and windows for air leaks before the winter weather sets in can save you a lot of stress later. Not only could leaks cause drafts, making your living space chilly in the winter or warm in the summer, but the cold air can also lower the temperature in your home, forcing your heating system to work harder and increase your utility expenses.

If you notice an air leak in the fall, you can take preventative actions before winter approaches, such as:

• Replacing old weatherstripping so doors and windows are totally sealed.
• Re-caulking any cracks.
• Closing the fireplace damper when not in use.

“Avoiding wintertime HVAC issues starts months before winter even begins,” noted Carson. “Take the time now to make sure your home is ready so you’re not paying for it later.”

5. Is the Insulation in My Home Ready for Winter?

Around 90% of U.S. residences need more insulation, according to the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association. That can have a big impact on your heating system, which will have to work harder to keep up during times of extreme temperatures. Autumn is an outstanding time to think about adding insulation, if you think your home needs additional protection from the elements. But how can you tell when your home needs more insulation?

“If your attic insulation is less than seven inches deep, it’s inadequate,” Carson explained. “Adding more will probably save you another 20% on your energy bill. Inconsistent room temperatures and drafts could also be signs of poor insulation. Services like blower door testing, home energy audits and infrared cameras can help determine where your home may need more insulation as well.”

To learn more about HVAC maintenance or to set up a tune-up with Service Experts, visit https://www.serviceexperts.com/.